If you’re the type of traveller who loves discovering Spain’s natural side away from the busy beaches, you’re going to love what I’m about to share with you. The Embassament de Elche (Elche Reservoir, also called Pantano de Elche) is a spot that most tourists often miss.
This reservoir sits in the mountains just outside Elche city, offering incredible hiking trails, peaceful picnic spots, and beautiful views. It’s perfect for families wanting a day out in nature, keen hikers looking for new trails, or anyone who fancies a break from the Costa Blanca’s beach scene.
Where is the Embassament de Elche?
The reservoir is located about 25 kilometres northwest of Elche city centre, nestled in the Sierra de Crevillent mountains. From Elche, it takes about 30 minutes driving to get there. From Alicante, you’re looking at roughly a 40-minute drive through some lovely countryside.
There’s a decent-sized car park near the dam wall, and parking is free.
What makes this place special
What I love most about the Embassament de Elche is how different it feels from the rest of the Costa Blanca. Instead of palm trees and beaches, you’ve got pine forests, rocky hills, and this massive stretch of water that changes colour depending on the time of day.
The dam was originally built back in 1632, making it incredibly the first arch dam constructed in Europe since Roman times. It was designed to capture the flash floods from the Vinalopó River that were common during torrential rains, then use that water for irrigation – which was then later used to help irrigate Elche Palm Grove.
The reservoir has had quite a dramatic history too. In 1995, the regulating gate burst, causing a massive mudslide that emptied the dam. It sat practically abandoned for 13 years until rehabilitation work began in 2007-2008. Now it’s officially recognised as a Cultural Heritage Site by the Valencian government, which gives you an idea of just how preserved this place is.
Best hiking trails around the Elche reservoir
The dam wall walk
This is perfect if you’re not after anything too strenuous. The walk from the main car park (called Explanada del Pantano de Elche – basically a large dirt parking area) takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the base of the dam.
The path follows the Vinalopó River valley, and you’ll hear the lovely sound of running water alongside you – quite refreshing in the Spanish heat! There are wooden bridges where the trail crosses back and forth over the river, and handrails in the rockier sections.
Once you reach the dam itself, there’s a stone staircase that takes you up alongside the 22-metre dam wall to the top, where you can walk along the lake shore on a floating platform walkway.
The perimeter trail
For something more challenging, there’s a trail that goes most of the way around the reservoir. It’s about 8 kilometres in total and takes around 3 hours to complete.
The path can be a bit rough in places, so I’d recommend proper walking shoes. You’ll pass through some lovely pine forests and get amazing viewpoints over the water.
The official Vinalopó tourist route
There’s actually an official circular tourist route that starts in Carrús Este and follows the Vinalopó River valley. This route takes you past several points of interest including the Valle Trenzado (Braided Valley), the Puente del Binibelmari bridge, and the sculptural exhibition at Cau before reaching the reservoir dam.
It’s designed for ecological tourism, hiking, and trail running, and it’s one of the most popular routes in the area.
What to bring and when to visit
The best time to visit is definitely spring (March to May) when the water levels are high and the surrounding hills are green. Autumn is lovely too – the temperatures are perfect for hiking and the light is beautiful for photos.
Summer can get pretty hot, so if you do come then, I’d suggest starting early in the morning. Bring plenty of water, especially if you’re planning any hiking – there aren’t any shops or cafes at the reservoir itself.
Don’t forget:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or food for a picnic
- Camera – the views are incredible!
Wildlife and nature
Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife – there are quite a few bird species around the water, including herons and various raptors circling overhead. In the pine forests, you might spot red squirrels and various lizard species.
The area is also known for its wild herbs – rosemary, thyme, and lavender grow wild on the hillsides, making the whole area smell amazing, particularly after rain.
Practical information
There aren’t any facilities at the reservoir – no toilets, shops, or restaurants – so come prepared. The nearest place to grab supplies is back in Elche or the small town of Aspe.
Swimming isn’t officially allowed in the reservoir as it’s a water supply, though you’ll sometimes see locals having a quick dip on hot days.
If you fancy making a proper day of it, pack a picnic and find one of the lovely spots along the shore. There are some great flat areas perfect for spreading out a blanket..
Making the most of your visit
I’d recommend planning at least half a day here if you want to do some proper hiking. If you’re just after a gentle walk and a picnic, a couple of hours will do.
The lighting is particularly beautiful in the early morning and late afternoon – perfect for photography. If you’re here during sunset, the mountains reflected in the water create some truly stunning views.
For families with young children, stick to the dam wall walk and the easier paths near the car park. The terrain can get quite rough on the longer trails.
This really is one of those places that shows you a completely different side of the Costa Blanca – away from the beaches and tourist crowds, just you, the mountains, and this beautiful stretch of water.
