Barranc de Malafí

The Barranc de Malafí is a long inland ravine threaded by the PR-CV 168 trail between Benimassot, Tollos and Castell de Castells, across El Comtat and La Marina Alta. The official trail's key points run from Benimassot through Tollos and the Pla de Tollos into the ravine, then on to the Pla de Petracos and Castell de Castells, with links to other local PR paths. Expect terraced slopes, riverside vegetation and quiet village-to-village walking in a remote corner of the Alicante interior.

Which section to walk

The full PR-CV 168 is a long mountain route for experienced walkers, so most visitors walk a short out-and-back stretch into the ravine: most visitors walk a short out-and-back stretch into the ravine, on an easy grade. The ravine keeps shade and water longer than the surrounding ridges, which suits a calm half-day walk.

Getting there

Drive towards Tollos or Benimassot, about 95 km from València; a car is needed, as no public transport serves these villages for walking. Start from the village edge and carry water, since there are no services along the ravine. For more ravine walking in the Marina Alta interior, the Barranc de l'Infern route in La Vall de Laguar is the classic next step.

Tips

• Carry the official PR-CV 168 track: signage in remote sections is uneven.
• Avoid the central hours in summer; the approach tracks are exposed.
• There are no confirmed bathing rules for the ravine pools; treat them as look-only unless signed otherwise.