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La Ereta Park
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ROUTE:

1.6 km

DURATION:

1 hour

DIFFICULTY:

Medium-Low

La Ereta Park, recovering the Icon of the City

The Monte Benacantil dominates the historic center, the port, and the sea. The powerful fortifications had given this military area a state of abandonment. Yet, the imposing mass of the mountain, with its tectonic nature, endured as an iconic symbol of the city. The creation of the park marks a restoration of this geographic landmark. Over time, the steep slope, landslides, southwest orientation, and challenging access gradually deteriorated the area, making the idea of envisioning a garden here seem almost absurd.

The integration of this natural space into the city’s daily life restores the connection between neglected neighborhoods and the vibrant city center and port. It revitalizes the upper parts of the historic city center and recalls the natural link to the castle overlooking the sea. Reclaiming the site also allows reconnecting with a familiar, spectacular, and magnificent landscape.

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Trail Stops

1. Plaza del Puente Access

2. Umbral San Roque

3. San Roque Hermitage

4. Umbral Los Navios

5. Wall Remains

6. Umbral San Rafael

7. El Barrio - Santa Cruz Hermitage

8. Polvorin

9. Restaurant

10. North Access

11. Jardin del Angel

12. Mirador Colina Alta

13. Umbral Sant Jordi

14. Wall

15. Exhibition Hall

16. Plaza La Ereta

17. Pergola and Jardin de Agua

18. Ladera de los Olivos

19. Plaza de los Algarrobos

20. Water Museum

Other trails

TRADITIONAL DOWNTOWN OF ALICANTE

LA ERETA PARK

EL CAMPO - TABARCA

WALLED CITADEL – TABARCA

TRAILS IN BENACANTIL

SIERRA DE SAN JULIAN - SERRA GROSSA

CABO DE LA HUERTA

LA HUERTA TOWERS

LA MARJAL FLOODABLE PARK

EL TOSSAL TRAIL

Monte Orgegia

All Routes in Alicante

Download Route Brochure

Route A

Maritime facade of Alicante

Route B

Santa Barbara Castle

Route C

Old Town of Alicante

Route D

The Traditional Downtown of Alicante

Route E

Alicante Air Raid Shelters

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Highlights

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© 2024 Alicante Municipal Tourism and Beaches Board – Alicante City Council

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1. Plaza del Puente Access

We begin our visit to the park at Plaza del Puente. Inside the park, we take the path on the left, crossing the wooden walkway and climbing the stairs that lead to a trail bordering the historic center. Along this path, a central row of orange trees (Citrus sinensis) stretches, filling the air with their characteristic spring scent of orange blossom, mixing with the aroma of shrub plants like oleanders (Nerium oleander).

2. Umbral San Roque

We arrive at the San Roque gateway and soon encounter the small, reddish-toned Hermitage of San Roque.

3. San Roque Hermitage

The San Roque Hermitage built in 1559, features a single nave, arches with buttresses, and a polygonal apse. It was constructed as an act of gratitude by the people of Alicante after a devastating epidemic that significantly reduced the population. The hermitage is located at the foot of Cerro de la Ereta.

4. Umbral Los Navios

Continuing along the trail, we reach the Umbral de los Navios, named after the nearby street once inhabited by seafarers. Alongside this section of the path, you can observe a variety of wild plants, including the Spanish broom (Genista hispanica), onionweed (Asphodelus fistulosus), serrated knapweed (Centaurea seridis L.), and other vulnerable species of the Centaurea genus, such as the star thistle (Centaurea calcitrapa L.) and Centaurea lagascae.

5. Wall Remains

If we take the stairs to the right, we’ll come across the remains of a 12th-century wall.
From here, you can either ascend to the Polvorin among bougainvilleas (Bougainvillea glabra) or continue along the trail.

6. Umbral San Rafael

At the Umbral de San Rafael, where the park is accessed through the Santa Cruz neighborhood. Climbing up some long steps, we will have a close and comprehensive view of this unique Alicante place known as “El Barrio”

7. El Barrio - Santa Cruz Hermitage

At its highest point, in the Ampolla Tower, stands the Hermitage of Santa Cruz. This 18th-century religious building features a single nave and modest dimensions. Reconstructed in 1830, it is believed to be built on the remains of an ancient mosque.

8. Polvorin

Sheltered by a dense array of shrubs, including trumpet-shaped Solandra (Solandra maxima), chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as monk’s pepper, Gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis), and the grayish Teucrium or tree germander (Teucrium fruticans) with blue flowers, visitors arrive at the staircase leading to the restaurant.

9. Restaurant

To the left, there is an area dedicated to the observation of a distinctive group of flora comprising century plants (Agave americana), yuccas (Yucca schidigera/Yucca gloriosa), prickly pears (Opuntia ficus-indica), ground covers like creeping boobialla (Myoporum pictum), and the crimson bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus), commonly known as “bottlebrush” due to its unique shape.

10. North Access

From here, we will progressively enjoy better views of the Port and the expanse of the City, aided by the orientation provided by the wind rose installed near this access point. Climbing a steep slope of 20%, to the right is a small forested area featuring Mediterranean pine (Pinus halepensis), service tree (Sorbus domestica), dwarf fan palm (Chamaerops humilis), and a localized group of araar (Tetraclinis articulata), also known as the Cartagena cypress. To the left, on the hillside, a rich variety of grasses can be observed, including fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), Chinese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis), and an abundance of sea star or sea daisy (Asteriscus maritimus), which thrives in the sea breeze and spreads rapidly through its abundant seeds.

11. Jardin del Angel

Along a wooden walkway bordered by Lagunaria (Lagunaria patersonii), commonly referred to as the itch tree, and yellow daisy hedges (Euryops pectinatus), visitors reach the end of this delightful corner of the park, marked by a specimen of dragon tree (Dracaena draco). Overlooking the Sea and the Beach, this extraordinary spot invites relaxation, offering breathtaking views extending to Cape Santa Pola and, further south, the Alicante island of Nueva Tabarca. Located beneath the Macho del Castillo, at an elevation of 87 meters, this rocky promontory’s height and unique topography make it an ideal birdwatching site.Yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) dominate the area, often displacing other gull species (Laridae). On quieter parts of the rocky edges, it is sometimes possible to spot and identify the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), distinguished by its characteristic “hihi-hi” sound in flight. We retrace our steps 80 m to join the Paseo Alto.

12. Mirador Colina Alta

From a northwest perspective, we catch sight of Alicante’s mountain ranges, such as the Sierra de Fontcalent and Sierra Mediana, among others.

13. Umbral Sant Jordi

At 109 meters above sea level, we find ourselves at the highest point of the park. Exiting this area, a short, straight path connects to the Santa Barbara Castle (late 9th century). However, we will turn left to begin a brief descent of approximately 120 meters, offering expansive views of the Medieval Wall.

14. Wall

Although the total length of this path exceeds 500 meters, we will exit midway (before reaching the bridge), descending along a tiled path that connects with the main route of the itinerary. Once again, we reach the northern access point, where we have the option to continue following the designated trail or take a detour toward the new La Tuna Park. This project, executed by Aguas Municipalizadas de Alicante, partially involved the landscape restoration of the southwestern slope of Monte Benacantil, connecting it with the downtown.

15. Exhibition Hall

Conceived as a multipurpose exhibition space, it was mainly dedicated to contemporary art since its opening in 2005.

16. Plaza La Ereta

We are in the Plaza de La Ereta, a spacious terrace featuring limestone seating on one side and, on the other, underground facilities later designed as storage and dressing rooms for events. On the southern viewpoint of the plaza, several board games have been installed as part of the recreational amenities.

17. Pergola and Jardin de Agua

We descend to the Pergola and the Jardin de Agua, among plants from wet areas and other bulbous plants, as well as a variety of hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis / Hibiscus syriacus). The papyrus (Cyperus papyrus) and bamboo (Bambusoideae) act as a screen for the large jacarandas (Jacaranda mimosifolia) and the polygala (Polygala myrtifolia). We will also see the Roman fortune tree: the jujube (Ziziphus zizyphus), with a thorny trunk and small edible fruit. This area, close to the urban core, is frequented by birds such as the common blackbird (Turdus merula), the European serin (Serinus serinus), and the hoopoe (Upupa epops), recognized by its distinctive crest and “bub-bub-bub” call, from which it gets its name.

18. Ladera de los Olivos

It is an area with a significant slope where a series of parallel walls were constructed for containment, stabilizing the terrain and acting as a huge sponge during heavy rains. It is conceived as a walkable resting place, shaded by olive trees (Olea europea).

19. Plaza de los Algarrobos

Six carob trees (Ceratonia siliqua) stand prominently on a white marble surface, partially shaded by a pergola overlooking the sea. This marks the end of our journey through this seven-hectare park, which opened on April 14, 2003. However, this location also serves as an excellent starting or finishing point for a visit to the Water Museum.

20. Water Museum

Located at Los Pozos de Garrigos, the Water Museum provides insights into the role of water in the city’s history. Visitors can explore ancient water extraction methods, the introduction of potable water in the 19th century, and the application of modern technologies.

20. Water Museum

Located at Los Pozos de Garrigos, the Water Museum provides insights into the role of water in the city’s history. Visitors can explore ancient water extraction methods, the introduction of potable water in the 19th century, and the application of modern technologies.

19. Plaza de los Algarrobos

Six carob trees (Ceratonia siliqua) stand prominently on a white marble surface, partially shaded by a pergola overlooking the sea. This marks the end of our journey through this seven-hectare park, which opened on April 14, 2003. However, this location also serves as an excellent starting or finishing point for a visit to the Water Museum.

18. Ladera de los Olivos

It is an area with a significant slope where a series of parallel walls were constructed for containment, stabilizing the terrain and acting as a huge sponge during heavy rains. It is conceived as a walkable resting place, shaded by olive trees (Olea europea).

17. Pergola and Jardin de Agua

We descend to the Pergola and the Jardin de Agua, among plants from wet areas and other bulbous plants, as well as a variety of hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis / Hibiscus syriacus). The papyrus (Cyperus papyrus) and bamboo (Bambusoideae) act as a screen for the large jacarandas (Jacaranda mimosifolia) and the polygala (Polygala myrtifolia). We will also see the Roman fortune tree: the jujube (Ziziphus zizyphus), with a thorny trunk and small edible fruit. This area, close to the urban core, is frequented by birds such as the common blackbird (Turdus merula), the European serin (Serinus serinus), and the hoopoe (Upupa epops), recognized by its distinctive crest and “bub-bub-bub” call, from which it gets its name.

16. Plaza La Ereta

We are in the Plaza de La Ereta, a spacious terrace featuring limestone seating on one side and, on the other, underground facilities later designed as storage and dressing rooms for events. On the southern viewpoint of the plaza, several board games have been installed as part of the recreational amenities.

15. Exhibition Hall

Conceived as a multipurpose exhibition space, it was mainly dedicated to contemporary art since its opening in 2005.

14. Wall

Although the total length of this path exceeds 500 meters, we will exit midway (before reaching the bridge), descending along a tiled path that connects with the main route of the itinerary. Once again, we reach the northern access point, where we have the option to continue following the designated trail or take a detour toward the new La Tuna Park. This project, executed by Aguas Municipalizadas de Alicante, partially involved the landscape restoration of the southwestern slope of Monte Benacantil, connecting it with the downtown.

13. Umbral Sant Jordi

At 109 meters above sea level, we find ourselves at the highest point of the park. Exiting this area, a short, straight path connects to the Santa Barbara Castle (late 9th century). However, we will turn left to begin a brief descent of approximately 120 meters, offering expansive views of the Medieval Wall.

12. Mirador Colina Alta

From a northwest perspective, we catch sight of Alicante’s mountain ranges, such as the Sierra de Fontcalent and Sierra Mediana, among others.

11. Jardin del Angel

Along a wooden walkway bordered by Lagunaria (Lagunaria patersonii), commonly referred to as the itch tree, and yellow daisy hedges (Euryops pectinatus), visitors reach the end of this delightful corner of the park, marked by a specimen of dragon tree (Dracaena draco). Overlooking the Sea and the Beach, this extraordinary spot invites relaxation, offering breathtaking views extending to Cape Santa Pola and, further south, the Alicante island of Nueva Tabarca. Located beneath the Macho del Castillo, at an elevation of 87 meters, this rocky promontory’s height and unique topography make it an ideal birdwatching site.Yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) dominate the area, often displacing other gull species (Laridae). On quieter parts of the rocky edges, it is sometimes possible to spot and identify the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), distinguished by its characteristic “hihi-hi” sound in flight. We retrace our steps 80 m to join the Paseo Alto.

10. North Access

From here, we will progressively enjoy better views of the Port and the expanse of the City, aided by the orientation provided by the wind rose installed near this access point. Climbing a steep slope of 20%, to the right is a small forested area featuring Mediterranean pine (Pinus halepensis), service tree (Sorbus domestica), dwarf fan palm (Chamaerops humilis), and a localized group of araar (Tetraclinis articulata), also known as the Cartagena cypress. To the left, on the hillside, a rich variety of grasses can be observed, including fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), Chinese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis), and an abundance of sea star or sea daisy (Asteriscus maritimus), which thrives in the sea breeze and spreads rapidly through its abundant seeds.

9. Restaurant

To the left, there is an area dedicated to the observation of a distinctive group of flora comprising century plants (Agave americana), yuccas (Yucca schidigera/Yucca gloriosa), prickly pears (Opuntia ficus-indica), ground covers like creeping boobialla (Myoporum pictum), and the crimson bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus), commonly known as “bottlebrush” due to its unique shape.

8. Polvorin

Sheltered by a dense array of shrubs, including trumpet-shaped Solandra (Solandra maxima), chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as monk’s pepper, Gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis), and the grayish Teucrium or tree germander (Teucrium fruticans) with blue flowers, visitors arrive at the staircase leading to the restaurant.

7. El Barrio - Santa Cruz Hermitage

At its highest point, in the Ampolla Tower, stands the Hermitage of Santa Cruz. This 18th-century religious building features a single nave and modest dimensions. Reconstructed in 1830, it is believed to be built on the remains of an ancient mosque.

6. Umbral San Rafael

At the Umbral de San Rafael, where the park is accessed through the Santa Cruz neighborhood. Climbing up some long steps, we will have a close and comprehensive view of this unique Alicante place known as “El Barrio”

5. Wall Remains

If we take the stairs to the right, we’ll come across the remains of a 12th-century wall.
From here, you can either ascend to the Polvorin among bougainvilleas (Bougainvillea glabra) or continue along the trail.

4. Umbral Los Navios

Continuing along the trail, we reach the Umbral de los Navios, named after the nearby street once inhabited by seafarers. Alongside this section of the path, you can observe a variety of wild plants, including the Spanish broom (Genista hispanica), onionweed (Asphodelus fistulosus), serrated knapweed (Centaurea seridis L.), and other vulnerable species of the Centaurea genus, such as the star thistle (Centaurea calcitrapa L.) and Centaurea lagascae.

3. San Roque Hermitage

The San Roque Hermitage built in 1559, features a single nave, arches with buttresses, and a polygonal apse. It was constructed as an act of gratitude by the people of Alicante after a devastating epidemic that significantly reduced the population. The hermitage is located at the foot of Cerro de la Ereta.

2. Umbral San Roque

We arrive at the San Roque gateway and soon encounter the small, reddish-toned Hermitage of San Roque.

1. Plaza del Puente Access

We begin our visit to the park at Plaza del Puente. Inside the park, we take the path on the left, crossing the wooden walkway and climbing the stairs that lead to a trail bordering the historic center. Along this path, a central row of orange trees (Citrus sinensis) stretches, filling the air with their characteristic spring scent of orange blossom, mixing with the aroma of shrub plants like oleanders (Nerium oleander).

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