Elche is set to unveil one of its most ambitious projects in sustainable tourism and environmental recovery this September: the Vinalopó Circular Trail. Spanning over 40 kilometres, this green route will connect the urban centre of Elche with its surrounding natural areas, including nearby villages and the coastline.
This project aims not only to enhance access and enjoyment of these natural surroundings but also to strengthen Elche’s identity as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Enhancing the Vinalopó river environment
The Vinalopó Circular Trail project is part of Elche’s Tourism Sustainability Plan. It has been funded by the European Union’s Next Generation funds, with an investment of nearly €293,000. Over the past four months, existing paths and trails along the Vinalopó River have been developed to create a circular route that naturally links Elche’s urban area with its outlying villages through the scenic Elche countryside.
This trail will allow both residents and visitors to explore iconic sites such as the Alcudia archaeological site, the San Francisco de Asís Hermitage, and the Puçol Museum. The route also offers the chance to enjoy the landscapes of El Hondo Natural Park, the Sierra del Molar, and the Pinet dunes.
September inauguration planned
According to Elche’s City Council, the trail will be completed and inaugurated in early September. José Antonio Román, the city’s Environment Councillor, highlighted that the trail will allow people to enjoy a privileged natural environment while contributing to the preservation of Elche’s natural and cultural heritage. The green route, he says, is “surrounded by palm trees, tamarisks, and a living river.”
Infrastructure and safety measures
The trail is well-equipped with amenities such as benches, rustic tables, bicycle racks, and numerous wooden signs and markers to guide walkers along the 40-kilometre route. Additionally, informational panels have been installed to provide details about the fauna, flora, and history of each section, enriching the overall experience. To ensure safety, wooden and metal footbridges have been constructed over the most challenging parts of the trail, such as the Azarbe de Dalt and the Azud dels Moros.
The four main sections
The Vinalopó Circular Trail is divided into four main sections. The first focuses on the restoration and improvement of the Vinalopó River. This river runs through much of Elche’s landscape. Efforts have been made to stabilise the riverbanks and improve accessibility.
The second section covers the salt marshes, beaches, and dunes between Daimés and La Marina, an area known for its biodiversity and natural beauty.
The third section explores the Sierra del Molar, a mountainous area offering spectacular panoramic views, making it a special attraction for nature lovers and hikers.
Finally, the fourth section connects with El Hondo Natural Park and the Camp d’Elx, passing through villages such as Puçol, Algoda, and Algorós. This area is particularly rich in flora and fauna, as it is a protected zone that hosts species of great ecological importance. The trail also offers detours to Alcudia and El Molar, providing a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems for exploration.