The Sierras of the Levante

The Levanta sierras Each of the six major sierras in the region of Valencia displays a different orography. © Office de Tourisme de Valence

The Community of Valencia is home to no fewer than six major sierras, each different from the last in terms of orography and each boasting its own natural park-type protected area. One of these, the Sierra de Calderota, affords spectacular views across the homogeneous forested land of various communities, despite its lack of particularly high peaks (its highest being the Gorgo, which peaks at 907m). Its valleys have also provided a place of refuge for various religious communities over the years, leaving the region with a great heritage, including the Portaceli and Vall de Crist Charterhouses and the Convent of Sant Esperit. Another of the region's major sierras is the Sierra de Espadán, which is home to an extensive network of little pathways passing through various traditional little villages of the Levantine hinterland, such as Almedíjar, Villamalur and Aín, not to mention pine and cork oak forests. Indeed, cork extraction is a major business here, particularly in June, when the landscape changes and you will be able to witness this traditional form of production for yourself. The Serra Gelada is located in the coastal natural park of the same name, which spans not only the coast itself but also a selection of islands and islets. The orography of the sierra, which includes mountains, cliffs and islands, along with the unique flora and fauna resulting from its extraordinary microclimate, make it a truly spectacular sight to behold. Having said that, there are other mountainous regions which are also worth a visit, such as the Sierra de Mariola, where you'll find various water-bearing features (rivers, fountains, etc.), and the unspoilt Irta region, with its spectacular sheer cliff faces.