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Away from the coast and the (private) swimming pools, there are the slightly more remote opportunities to swim in nature. There are rivers, waterfalls, leafy ponds and reservoirs in abundance in the Alicante and Valencia area to take a cool dip in a relaxed atmosphere. We list the best places.
El Barranco de la Encantada is located near the Beniarres reservoir. Between the mountains of Alcoy, this is a wonderful place to relax. The natural swimming pool can be reached from Planes. A steep descent (not suitable for pushchairs) leads to the water area in the middle of the mountain.
Near Xixona in the province of Alicante, the 20-metre high waterfall of the Torre river is the eye-catcher of the various pools that have been formed here. Swimmers in the pools run the risk of sharing the water with fish, crabs and even turtles. The water is surrounded by exuberant vegetation. Walking trails and picnic areas invite you to a relaxing day out.
The source of the Vinalopo river near Alicante is the Sierra de Mariola. This green lung in the province is also a beautiful hiking area, which is easy for young and old. Along the way there are several pools with clean and crystal clear water. Because this is the place where the Vinalopo starts, the water is very cold.
The Raco de Sant Bonaventura can be found near Alcoy between the nature reserves of Font Roja and Serra de Mariola. Although the entire area attracts many hikers who love beautiful tours, Bonaventura has the extra attraction of waterfalls and refreshing pools. There is always a lot of water, because it is located in the upper part of the Polop river.
The Font Major de Sella is a recreation area on the road from Villajoyosa to Sella. Walking through the area you come to a small river that flows into a swimming pond. The sign that says no swimming is completely ignored by everyone. According to locals, it is only there so that the municipality cannot be held responsible. Besides swimming and walking, there is also a picnic area.
Las Pozas Clariano. Near Ontiyent, the Clariano river was created by centuries of eroding limestone. The result is a very varied river landscape. At the source, no fewer than six 'pools' have been created at different levels, which together form an excellent swimming area.
The water reservoir in the valley near Guadalest is significantly larger than the previously mentioned natural waters. The blue-green water in a valley that is surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the Valencia region, such as the highest mountain, the Aitana, at 1558 metres. The reservoir is very suitable for swimming. Other water sports such as canoeing and paddleboarding are also very popular. Those who want to avoid the water can take beautiful walks in the valley.
Perhaps the most popular destination for natural water fun are the Algar waterfalls. For more about that, see here.
