From Benidorm to Serra Gelada: the Cross and Torre de les Caletes

At the eastern end of Levante, Benidorm changes abruptly from dense city to protected limestone coast. Serra Gelada offers two useful introductions: the steep paved ascent toward La Creu, with the entire bay behind it, and the lower coastal route toward the remains of Torre de les Caletes and Punta del Cavall.

Why it matters

The cross viewpoint sits at the southern end of the natural park. Farther along the coast, the circular base of Torre de les Caletes survives from a sixteenth-century warning network built against corsair attacks. The cliffs also hold fossil dune deposits and a flora micro-reserve. These natural surfaces are easily overlooked when the skyline dominates every reverse view.

Plan the visit

Choose one route to suit the group rather than casually committing to the full Serra Gelada traverse, which is rough, steep and substantially harder. The Cross approach is accessible by a paved but demanding road; the Caletes route brings the watchtower closer. Both are exposed to sun, wind and temporary fire closures.

• Start early and carry more water than the urban setting suggests.
• Check wildfire and wind closures on the day.
• Keep behind barriers and away from friable cliff edges.
• Treat the full ridge traverse as a serious separate hike with transport planning.

Connect the story

The planned-skyline story explains the compact city visible below; Serra Gelada shows the hard natural boundary that helped contain it.

Sources

Written in September 2026 from the Generalitat's official Serra Gelada places-of-interest guide and Benidorm's municipal walking network.

Park access can close at short notice for fire or weather risk. Follow emergency notices and do not improvise cliff shortcuts.