Cabeçó d'Or Loop Trail (PR-CV 2)

The full loop trail is approximately 10.6 kilometers (6.6 miles) long and generally takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how much time you spend enjoying the views or navigating challenging sections.

This trail is rated as difficult. It requires a good level of physical fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes. You'll encounter significant elevation gain, rocky sections, loose stones, and steep climbs. Some parts may even require easy scrambling, especially if you opt for the summit detour.

The terrain is quite varied and demanding. You'll hike on dirt tracks, established paths, and some road sections. Expect rocky and eroded areas, loose stones, and steep ascents. The route also winds through pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, offering a diverse hiking experience.

The trail typically starts near the renowned Cuevas del Canelobre. There is usually parking available in this area, which serves as a convenient starting point for the loop.

The trail offers simply impressive and continually changing scenery. Key highlights include the challenging Paso Hilary and the rewarding Cabeçó d'Or Summit. From the higher elevations and the summit, you'll get magnificent 360-degree panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Peñón de Ifach, Sierra de Aitana, Puig Campana, and the city of Alicante. On clear days, you might even spot Ibiza.

The Cabeçó d'Or area is part of the Natura 2000 Network and designated as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA). While dogs are generally allowed on trails in Spain, it's advisable to keep them on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure their safety on the challenging terrain. Always check for specific local regulations before you go.

No, you do not need a special permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike the Cabeçó d'Or Loop Trail (PR-CV 2). It is a public access trail.

The best times to hike are generally spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, making the strenuous ascent more challenging. Winters can bring colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions at higher elevations, so be prepared for varied weather.

No, there are no natural water sources available directly on the trail. It is crucial to carry sufficient water for the entire hike, especially given its length and difficulty.

Yes, the route is primarily the Cabeçó d'Or trail itself, which is also known as PRV 2-Cabeçó d'Or. It also briefly intersects with sections of the senda Canal de l'Homenet and the pujada sud-est al Cabeçó d'Or.

Given the trail's difficulty and varied terrain, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone or GPS device. A physical map or downloaded komoot map is also recommended, as some signage can be deteriorated.