Top 16 Gorges around Orba

The region around Orba offers several notable canyons and gorges. The Gallinera Valley is a beautiful area formed by eight towns, popular among hikers for its extensive network of paths and scenic beauty. Another significant spot is the Old dam at Barranc del Infern, known for its eroded rock formations and a hiking trail along a dry riverbed. Additionally, the Penya Blanca Cliffs offer impressive views of the Sierra de Penya Blanca with its distinctive white, steep vertical walls.

The Barranc de l'Infern, often called the “Cathedral of Hiking,” is a spectacular and deep canyon located in the Vall de Laguar, north of Alicante province. It's renowned for its iconic circular hiking route, PR-CV 147, which features over 6,000 ancient stone steps built by Moors. Hikers can experience breathtaking scenery, impressive geological formations, and historical terraced fields. The Barranco del Infierno Riverbed Crossing is a key part of this route, offering a unique experience within the canyon.

Yes, the canyons around Orba are rich in history. The Barranc de l'Infern features ancient stone steps, originally built by Moors over 500 years ago for agricultural access. Along the PR-CV 147 trail, you can find the old Juvees d'Alt corrals, an old set of agricultural houses in ruins with Moorish-origin cisterns. Additionally, the Cova de l'Aigua near Denia (a short drive from Orba) is an archaeological site with Roman inscriptions and evidence of Iberian use.

For those seeking more technical canyoning experiences beyond hiking, the wider Alicante province offers several options. These include Barranco del Pas de Calvo in Vall d'Ebo, known for its wilderness feel; Barranco del Lliset del Salt in Tarbena, with easy access through almond groves; and Barranco de Gulabdar in Echo Valley for its breathtaking scenery. The Estret de les Penyes (Barranco de Bolulla) is a beautiful aquatic canyon suitable for beginners, while Gorgo de la Escalera in Anna is an exciting water canyon for families, featuring jumps and rappels.

While the Barranc de l'Infern is physically demanding, some other options in the broader region are more suitable for families. The Estret de les Penyes (Barranco de Bolulla) is considered one of the simplest yet most beautiful aquatic canyons, suitable for beginners. The Gorgo de la Escalera in Anna is also an exciting water canyon suitable for families, featuring optional jumps. When planning, always consider the specific route's difficulty and any necessary equipment.

The best time to visit the canyons near Orba for hiking is generally during the cooler months, from autumn through spring (October to May). Summers can be very hot, making long hikes challenging. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming flora, while autumn provides comfortable weather. It's advisable to check local weather conditions, especially for water-based canyons, as conditions can vary with rainfall.

The canyons around Orba showcase diverse natural features. You'll encounter impressive geological formations, such as the eroded rock formations in the Barranc de l'Infern and the steep, white vertical walls of the Penya Blanca Cliffs. The region is characterized by river valleys like the River Girona, which has sculpted these gorges over millennia. When there's been sufficient rain, a beautiful 65-meter waterfall can be seen in the Barranc del Salt or Barranc de Fleix section of Barranc de l'Infern.

Beyond hiking, the area around Orba offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous gravel biking routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'View of Guadalest Reservoir – Castell de Castells loop'. There are also many MTB trails, including challenging routes like 'Views of the Serra de Bèrnia'. For those who enjoy running, several running trails are available, often passing through orange groves.

For general hiking on established trails like the PR-CV 147 in Barranc de l'Infern, permits are typically not required for individual hikers. However, for technical canyoning routes, especially those involving rappelling or specific equipment, it is highly recommended to go with experienced guides or ensure you have the necessary permits and safety knowledge. Always check with local authorities or specialized tour operators for the most up-to-date information on permit requirements for specific technical routes.

The region is rich with viewpoints. The Penya Blanca Cliffs offer impressive views of the Sierra de Penya Blanca. Along the Barranc de l'Infern trail, there are numerous spots providing spectacular views over the canyon and the surrounding area, including the terraced fields. The Gallinera Valley itself is known for its scenic beauty, with many paths offering picturesque vistas of the valley and its eight charming towns.

While Orba itself is a charming town, direct public transport options to specific canyon trailheads like those for Barranc de l'Infern (e.g., Fleix in Vall de Laguar) can be limited. It is often more convenient to reach these areas by car. Some local bus services might connect Orba to nearby villages, but for direct access to hiking starting points, a private vehicle is generally recommended. Always check local bus schedules for the most current information.

For hiking, wear comfortable, sturdy hiking boots, appropriate clothing for the season (layers are advisable), and bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a map or GPS device. For technical canyoning, specialized equipment such as wetsuits, helmets, harnesses, ropes, and appropriate footwear is essential. It's crucial to be prepared for varying conditions and to consult with experienced guides if attempting technical routes.