Paseo Ecológico in Benissa Costa
A Beautiful Coastal Walk Near Calpe
The Paseo Ecológico in Benissa is one of our favourite coastal walks on the northern Costa Blanca. This beautiful walking trail takes you past rocky cliffs, hidden coves and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, with wonderful views towards Calpe and the famous Peñón de Ifach. And the best part? You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy it.
For us, it’s a lovely way to discover the coastline between Moraira and Calpe. Take your time, enjoy the views and perhaps finish your walk with a coffee or a leisurely lunch by the sea.
Paseo Ecológico Benissa – Practical Information
- Location | Benissa Costa, between Moraira and Calpe.
- Distance | approximately 3.5 km across the two official sections.
- Walking time | around 45–60 minutes for the official route, excluding stops and the return journey.
- Difficulty | easy, although there are steps, slopes and some uneven surfaces.
- Starting point | Tourist Info Benissa Playa, near Cala Fustera.
- Best time to visit | throughout the year, preferably early in the morning during summer.
- Admission | free.
- Dogs | allowed, provided they are kept on a lead.
The route is divided into different sections, so you can choose between a shorter walk and a longer exploration of the coastline.
Where Does the Paseo Ecológico Start?
One of the most convenient starting points is near Cala Fustera on the Benissa coast. From Tourist Info Benissa Playa, you can follow the trail in two directions. To the south, a short 600-metre section takes you towards the small marina at Les Bassetes. To the north, the longer 2.9-kilometre section follows the coastline past beautiful coves towards Cala Advocat and the nearby viewpoints. Both sections offer spectacular Mediterranean scenery.
The great thing about this walk is that you don’t have to complete the entire route. Even a short stroll along the coast is well worth the effort.
📍Avinguda de la Marina 307 | Benissa
The Most Beautiful Places Along the Paseo Ecológico
Cala Fustera | A Lovely Sandy Beach
Cala Fustera is one of the best-known beaches along Benissa Costa. This attractive sandy cove is surrounded by rocky cliffs and has wonderfully clear water, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It’s also a great place to begin your walk or stop for a refreshing drink. We recommend allowing a little extra time here, particularly outside the busy summer months when the beach is generally quieter.
Les Bassetes | A Small Marina with Beautiful Views
The southern section of the Paseo Ecológico leads towards Club Náutico Les Bassetes. Along the way, you’ll pass a protected natural area and the remains of an old stone quarry. The locally quarried tosca stone was once used to construct historic buildings in Benissa, including the 16th-century Sala del Consell. At Les Bassetes, you’ll enjoy lovely views across the Mediterranean towards the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe. The marina is also a pleasant place to stop for a coffee or lunch.
Cala dels Pinets | A Small, Natural Cove
Along the northern route, you’ll discover Cala dels Pinets. Unlike the sandy beach at Cala Fustera, this small cove has rocks, pebbles and large flat stone surfaces. It’s a lovely spot to admire the coastline and discover a quieter side of Benissa Costa.
The surrounding area is also interesting for its unusual rock formations and beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
Cala de la Llobella | A Peaceful Hidden Bay
Further along the coastal route lies Cala de la Llobella. This small, natural cove is surrounded by rocky scenery and is a little more difficult to access than the larger beaches. As a result, it often feels wonderfully peaceful. The clear water makes it an attractive place for snorkelling, although we recommend bringing water shoes because of the stones and rocks.
Cala Advocat | A Sheltered Mediterranean Cove
Continuing along the route, you’ll reach Cala Advocat, a small bay with a distinctive breakwater. It’s a lovely place to take a break, enjoy the scenery or cool off in the Mediterranean. During the summer season, there are usually refreshments available nearby. The official walking route continues towards the viewpoints and the outdoor exercise area beyond Cala Advocat.
Important: the official trail currently does not connect directly to Cala Baladrar. If you plan to continue further along the coastline, check the available routes beforehand.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Benissa Costa
One of the things that makes the Paseo Ecológico so interesting is the variety of nature along the route. You’ll find information panels explaining the coastline’s geology, Mediterranean plants, local wildlife and cultural history. Some sections pass through protected areas containing unusual botanical species. And beneath the clear water, there’s another fascinating natural feature.
Posidonia Oceanica | The Mediterranean’s Underwater Meadows
When walking along the coast, you may notice darker patches beneath the turquoise water. These are often underwater meadows of Posidonia oceanica, a seagrass native to the Mediterranean.
These meadows are extremely important for marine life. They provide shelter for fish and other sea creatures, help maintain healthy marine ecosystems and protect the coastline. You may also notice washed-up seagrass leaves on some beaches.
Although they don’t always look particularly attractive, these natural deposits help protect the beaches against erosion, especially during winter storms. It’s a wonderful reminder of just how special the Mediterranean environment is.
Is the Paseo Ecológico Suitable for Children?
Yes, many families can comfortably enjoy this coastal walk. However, it’s worth remembering that although the route is classified as easy, there are steps, slopes and sections of uneven ground. We recommend comfortable walking shoes and regular stops if you’re exploring with younger children. The complete route is not suitable for pushchairs.
Fortunately, you can choose a shorter section. Even the walk around Cala Fustera or towards Les Bassetes offers beautiful views without requiring a long hike.
Our Personal Tips for Enjoying the Walk
A little preparation makes the experience even more enjoyable.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes | Some sections have steps and uneven surfaces.
- Bring drinking water | Parts of the route are exposed to direct sunshine.
- Start early in summer | July and August can be particularly hot.
- Pack your swimming things | There are several beautiful coves where you can enjoy the sea.
- Bring your camera | The views towards Calpe and the Mediterranean are fantastic.
- Check the conditions | Storms, heavy rain or maintenance work can occasionally affect access to sections of the path.
And perhaps our most important tip: don’t rush. This is one of those walks where stopping to admire the scenery is part of the experience.
Beach Bars Along Benissa Costa
Looking for somewhere to enjoy lunch or a refreshing drink with beautiful Mediterranean views? Just outside Moraira, the coastline of Benissa has several charming Spanish chiringuitos. Discover our favourite beach bars in Benissa Costa and find the perfect terrace for your next seaside lunch.
More Beautiful Walks Around Moraira
Enjoyed the Paseo Ecológico? There are plenty of other wonderful walks around Moraira and Benissa. You could follow the Paseo Marítimo from Moraira to El Portet, which offers beautiful coastal views and ends at one of Moraira’s loveliest beaches.
For something more adventurous, consider the Torre de Vigía hiking trail above El Portet, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. And if you’re looking for a more challenging experience, the famous Peñón de Ifach in Calpe is another impressive destination. Read our guide to visiting Calpe for more information.
Looking for a More Adventurous Walk?
If you enjoy discovering beautiful walking routes on the Costa Blanca, the Pasarela de Relleu is another experience worth adding to your holiday plans. Located in the mountains near Relleu, this spectacular gorge walk takes you along wooden platforms attached to steep cliffs, with glass viewpoints overlooking the canyon.
Discover our Pasarela de Relleu walking guide, including routes, ticket prices and practical tips.
Explore the Costa Blanca from Your Own Holiday Villa
One of the best things about staying in Moraira or Benissa is the variety of experiences right on your doorstep. One day, you can explore the beautiful coastline along the Paseo Ecológico. The next, you might enjoy a quiet morning at the beach, discover a charming Spanish village or simply relax beside your private swimming pool.
At Moraira Holiday Homes, we’ve been helping guests find their ideal holiday accommodation since 2004. Our carefully selected collection includes comfortable apartments, family holiday homes and luxury villas with private swimming pools. And because we live locally, we’re always happy to share our personal recommendations for walking routes, beaches and interesting places to visit.
Would you like to discover this beautiful part of the Costa Blanca for yourself? Explore our holiday homes in Moraira and Benissa and start planning your next Mediterranean holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Paseo Ecológico in Benissa
How long is the Paseo Ecológico in Benissa?
The two official walking sections cover approximately 3.5 kilometres in total. One section runs for 600 metres towards Les Bassetes, while the longer section covers 2.9 kilometres towards Cala Advocat and the surrounding viewpoints.
How long does the Paseo Ecológico take to walk?
The official route information gives an estimated walking time of around 45–60 minutes. Allow additional time for the return journey, photography, swimming or stopping for refreshments.
Where does the Paseo Ecológico start?
A convenient starting point is Tourist Info Benissa Playa, near Cala Fustera on the Benissa coast. From here, you can walk towards Les Bassetes or follow the longer coastal route towards Cala Advocat.
Is the Paseo Ecológico a difficult walk?
No, it’s generally considered an easy coastal walk. However, there are steps, slopes and some uneven sections, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Is the Paseo Ecológico suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the walk. If you’re visiting with young children, we recommend choosing a shorter section. The full route isn’t suitable for pushchairs because of the steps and changes in elevation.
Can I walk the Paseo Ecológico with my dog?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the walking route, provided they’re kept on a lead. Bring enough drinking water, especially during warmer weather.
Can you swim along the Paseo Ecológico?
Yes. Several beautiful coves along the route are suitable for swimming when sea conditions are calm, including Cala Fustera, Cala dels Pinets, Cala de la Llobella and Cala Advocat. Water shoes are useful at the rocky beaches.
Can you walk all the way from Benissa to Calpe?
The official Paseo Ecológico consists of several sections along Benissa Costa rather than one continuous, signposted route to Calpe town centre. To continue towards Calpe, you may need to use additional roads or paths.
Are there restaurants or cafés along the route?
Yes. There are places to enjoy refreshments around Cala Fustera, Les Bassetes and Cala Advocat. Opening times may vary by season, so it’s worth checking beforehand.
When is the best time to walk the Paseo Ecológico?
Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant because temperatures are generally comfortable. The route is also enjoyable in winter. During summer, an early morning walk is usually the best option.
Is the Paseo Ecológico free to visit?
Yes. The official coastal walking route is free to access. Separate charges may apply for parking or activities at nearby beaches and facilities.
