Pico de Aitana

The Aitana peak, at 1558 metres, is the summit of its range and of the whole province of Alicante, at the eastern end of the Prebaetic and in the municipality of Confrides. The range covers about 2000 hectares across la Marina Baixa, the Hoya de Alcoy and the Condado de Cocentaina, crossed by many signed hiking routes.

The fenced summit

The summit itself holds an air surveillance base and a telecom centre: the geodetic vertex stands inside the compound and cannot be stepped on. The routes circle the installations along the high trails, with wide views over the Marina valleys, so the day out is equally complete without touching the highest point.

When to climb

Spring and autumn are the best times; in winter there can be snow on the high ground. It is a high-difficulty climb of about 5 hours, reached by car, with a natural stop in Guadalest or at the Guadalest reservoir on the way back. Carry water, dress for the season and wear mountain footwear.