Paradise Valley: Step into spring at Vall de la Gallinera, a region abundant in natural wonders

With days getting longer and temperatures rising, spring not only puts an extra bounce in our step but it also renews our appetite for discovery. And those seeking a deeper connection with the land should look no further than Vall de la Gallinera – one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Steeped in history, with stunning landscapes and a full larder, this small municipality punches well above its weight. Sandwiched between wild terrain among the Les Solanes, El Almirante and the Foradà mountains and on the banks of the Gallinera river, nature is on the doorstep.

Close to the popular coastal towns of Dénia or Jávea, and convenient for Alicante and Valencia airports, access is easy, although the area retains its off-the-beaten-track feel. With a population of just 600, Vall de la Gallinera consists of eight distinct villages – namely Benirrama, Benialí, Benissivá, Beitaia, La Carroja, Alpatró, Llomabi and Benissili – and forms The Route of the 8 Villages, a 16km trail perfect for hiking or cycling.

In spring, this under-the-radar Mediterranean location comes alive as thousands of snow-white flowers burst on to the scene. Offering far-reaching views across the valley, Vall de la Gallinera is dubbed one of the most beautiful places in Europe to witness the arrival of cherry blossom blooms.

With the area boasting an average of 300 sunny days a year, basking under golden rays on a spring break is almost guaranteed. Thanks to this endless sunshine and fertile soils, alongside the famous cherry trees lush olive groves flourish here, making a stunning visual statement among fields of crops. During spring, visitors can expect pleasant 25-degree averages, ideal for picnics, exploring and taking in the natural vistas.

A haven for hiking and outdoor adventures, Vall de la Gallinera has no shortage of extraordinary scenery as well as historical sites. Take to the rugged crag of Penya Foradà, a naturally formed stone arch atop a mountain peak, marvel in the ruins of the 12^th-century fortress Castillo de Benirrama and cool off in the crystal-clear swimming hole under the waterfalls of Barranco de l'Encantada.

And, for those who find inspiration walking in the footsteps of our ancestors, the Benirrama and Benialí caves are a must-visit: home to prehistoric cave paintings in different styles, including Levantine, Schematic and Macro-Schematic.

With so many hotspots, Vall de la Gallinera is ripe for discovery, but it has to be the cherry trees, with their rich heritage, that take centre stage. Introduced by the Romans and cultivated here ever since, they've thrived thanks to the area’s microclimate. To this day, they retain a central place in local cuisine: try tarta de queso (cheesecake), topped with the region's famous cherry preserves or sample a flavour-forward cherry gazpacho.

Later, in early summer, the dark red fruits will be harvested under the Denomination of Origin Cherries of the Mountain of Alicante, using an artisanal method that makes the fruit completely unique to the area. The family-friendly Cherry festival, held over the second weekend in June, features a variety of gourmet-led activities, including a gastronomic route through all the noteworthy restaurants in the municipality – the perfect excuse to return.

To discover more and start planning your trip, visit https://www.comunitatvalenciana.com/en/alacant-alicante/la-vall-de-gallinera