The best running trails around Benigembla

Description The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla is a small church located in the heart of the town. Behind its walls lies a long history. The building's history stretches from the Middle Ages to the present day, resulting in various uses and changes to its appearance. The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla was restored in 1979. It is a semi-detached building with a vaulted ceiling and two transverse arches, above which, from the altar, stands the image of Ecce Homo. To one side is the old Chapel of San Francisco de Borja, which has housed the image of the town's patron saint, the Divine Aurora, since 1856. History The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla has a centuries-old history. Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, all indications point to around 1591. The building was formerly the city's old women's hospital, which, like these rooms in the Middle Ages, was converted into a hermitage invoking the Blood of Christ. However, it had been used as a prison long before that. In 1600, the prison was located within the hospital, but the diocese at the time decided to separate them. Documents indicate that the old prison was located where the image of the divine Aurora is currently situated.

We took the stairs to the Barranc de l'Infern and, once at the bottom, hiked a bit further into the gorge. On the way back, we accidentally took the stairway on the other side of the river. So we arrived at the top, tired but satisfied, just as our water supply had run out. Then we realized we were wrong. The only option was to go back down into the gorge and then back up on the other side... without water or food. We were rather happy to find a natural spring at the top of the road at the end, where we could refresh our thirsty bodies... Fortunately, it all ended well!

Just off the road between Sagra and Pego, the small turnoff toward Vall d’Ebo leads into one of the most beautiful and tranquil climbs in the Costa Blanca mountains. It may not be famous outside of cycling circles — but pros know it well: Tadej Pogačar holds the Strava KOM on this climb. From the Pego side, the ascent runs for about 8 km, gaining 400 metres at a steady average of 5%. The road is smooth, quiet, and beautifully engineered — with a flowing rhythm and wide, elegant curves. The landscape is peaceful and wild, with cliffs, pines, and far-reaching views. At the top, just before you descend into Vall d’Ebo, you’re rewarded with a spectacular view in both directions: looking back, the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea; looking ahead, the lush green valley of Vall d’Ebo, framed by rugged ridges and rocky outcrops. It’s a rare and stunning double panorama. If you continue past the village, you can create a magnificent loop via Pla de Petracos, riding through remote canyons and ancient rock formations before descending into Benigembla and back to the Vall de Pop. If you're riding from Vall d’Ebo toward Pego, the climb is shorter — about 3 km at 6% — but still very scenic, especially as you rise above the valley with dramatic views behind you. Vall d’Ebo may be quiet, but it’s world-class: pure road, total calm, and the kind of climb you’ll want to ride again and again.

💡 Tip: Watch for “Agua sin tratar” – Not Safe to Drink In rural areas like Vall de Laguar, you may come across fountains or taps labeled "Agua sin tratar" — this means untreated water, and it’s not safe for drinking unless you have a filter. Always look for signs or ask locals if you’re unsure. When in doubt, refill only at official drinking water points connected to the municipal supply.

the 2nd barranco you meet, after climbing out of the first barranco and descending again

The first descent of 300m via a large section of the 6800 steps, brings you to the first barranco, Rio Girona

The washhouse was built in 1904 by Lorenzo Torrens Reig, a native of Orbeta. The architectural style was inspired by Neo-Gothic and Neo-Mudéjar styles.

Nice climb on a quiet road.