Ermita de Sant Cristòfol (Alcoi)

The Ermita de Sant Cristòfol is a small hermitage on a high terrace above Alcoi, with aerial views over the town rooftops and the walls of the Barranc del Cint. The climb starts at the Preventori recreation area, at the Preventori and climbs through pine and limestone, with the vulture slopes of the gorge below the path. It is the high point of the first section of the classic Cint loop, and it also works as a short standalone outing inside the Serra de Mariola foothills, easy to pair with the Racó de Sant Bonaventura valley.

Views

From the terrace the town of Alcoi spreads below with its bridges, backed by the Cint walls and the Alt de les Pedreres ridge. Griffon vultures from the gorge colony often pass at eye level along the slope. The hermitage itself is modest: the value of the visit is the terrace and the path, not the building.

Getting there

Drive to Alcoi, about 100 km from València; a car is needed, as no public transport reaches the Preventori. Follow the signed path from the Preventori to the hermitage and allow about an hour up at a calm pace, more with photo stops.

Tips

• Go on clear mornings for the sharpest views over Alcoi.
• Carry water: there are no fountains on the climb.
• Keep noise down on the terrace edges facing the vulture slopes.