4.6
(106)
384
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking in Laguna Y Saleros De Villena features a distinctive landscape shaped by its past as an endorheic basin. The terrain includes active inland salt flats, known as "saleros," and small, rounded hills called "cabezos." Trails often follow the "Acequia del Rey," a 10-kilometer historical canal, and pass through areas with specialized halophytic vegetation adapted to saline soils.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.6
(9)
36
hikers
9.84km
03:07
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
4.09km
01:04
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
3
hikers
7.60km
01:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.37km
01:28
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.47km
01:10
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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In Villena you can admire one of the best-preserved castles in the region. Everything shows unmistakable Arab influence.
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You can still find some pretty old buildings and authentic Spanish life here. However, it's a bit more difficult to find a restaurant on Mondays.
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You can still find some pretty old buildings and authentic Spanish life here. However, it's a bit more difficult to find a restaurant on Mondays.
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Climb up the elephant's head
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Villena is a jewel of inland Alicante, perfect for a cultural, historical, and gastronomic getaway. Monuments and Heritage Atalaya Castle: A 12th-century Almohad fortress, a symbol of the city. It offers spectacular views and guided tours. Church of Santiago: With its spiral columns, it is one of the most unique examples of Levantine Gothic architecture. Church of Santa María: A blend of Gothic and Baroque styles. Chapí Theatre: A cultural landmark with a program of music, theatre, and dance. Town Hall and Santiago Square: The heart of the historic center.
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Church of Santa María (Villena) This church was built in the 16th century on the site of the former main Muslim mosque of Villena, at which time it became the church of El Rabal, the suburb outside the medieval walls of Villena.
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Built by the Almohads in the 12th century on San Cristóbal Hill as a defensive fortress on the border between the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon. The inner wall and the two lower floors of the keep date from the Almohad period, featuring vaults unique in Spain, along with those of Biar Castle. In the 15th century, the two upper floors and the outer wall with twelve turrets were added. Conquered by James I in 1240. Residence of Don Juan Manuel (author of El Conde Lucanor). It participated in conflicts such as the War of the Spanish Succession, the Revolt of the Brotherhoods, and the Peninsular War. Declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931 and a Site of Cultural Interest.
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This spectacular fortress was built by the Almohad Empire at the end of the 12th century as a refuge for the Muslim population of Villena. The inner wall and the first two floors of the keep, with its imposing vaults—unique among Spanish castles along with the fortress of Biar—date from this period.
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There are 5 hiking trails available directly from the Villena bus station, offering convenient access to the unique landscapes of Laguna y Saleros de Villena. These routes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring options for different preferences.
Hikes from the Villena bus station generally feature relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the former lagoon basin. You'll encounter paths through agricultural fields, areas of saline soils, and gentle undulations from small 'cabezos' (rounded hills). The routes are typically well-suited for easy to moderate walking.
Yes, several easy options are available. For a shorter, relaxed walk, consider the Villena – Pinada de Santa Bárbara loop from Villena, which is just over 4 km. Another easy choice is the Villena loop from Villena, which is around 4.5 km.
Absolutely. All the routes listed in this guide are circular, meaning you'll start and end your hike conveniently at the Villena bus station without needing to arrange return transport. For example, the Hiking loop from Villena offers a pleasant 7.6 km circular journey.
These hikes offer a glimpse into the unique ecosystem of Laguna y Saleros de Villena. You'll experience the distinctive saline landscapes, observe specialized halophytic vegetation, and potentially spot various bird species. While not directly on all routes, the historical context of the drained lagoon and the nearby salt flats (saleros) define the area's character.
Yes, you can reach scenic spots offering views of the surrounding area. The View of Villena – Tuareg Viewpoint loop from Villena is a moderate 9.8 km route specifically designed to take you to a viewpoint overlooking Villena and its environs. Another option is the Las Cruces Viewpoint – Villena loop from Villena, an easy 5.4 km trail that also includes a viewpoint.
The best times to hike are typically spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are milder, making for more comfortable walking conditions. Winter can also be pleasant, though cooler, while summer months can be very hot, especially in the open, exposed landscapes of the salt flats.
Many of the routes are suitable for families, especially those looking for easy, relatively flat walks. The shorter loops, such as the 4 km Villena – Pinada de Santa Bárbara loop from Villena, are ideal for families with children. Always check the route distance and elevation gain to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in natural areas like Laguna y Saleros de Villena, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near agricultural land. Ensure you carry enough water for your dog, as shade and water sources can be limited in this landscape.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in this region, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 96 ratings. Hikers often praise the convenience of starting directly from the bus station, the unique natural scenery, and the accessibility of the trails for various fitness levels.


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