Torre de Vigia walk in Moraira

Discover the Cap d’Or Watchtower

A historic watchtower, a rocky hillside trail and some of the most beautiful views over Moraira. The walk to Torre de Vigia on Cap d’Or is one of our favourite short hikes on the Costa Blanca! Looking up from El Portet beach, you can see the rocky headland of Cap d’Or rising above the Mediterranean. Right at the top stands an old stone watchtower, once used to protect the coastline against attacks from the sea. The walk may look short, but don’t be fooled. The path is steep, rocky and quite adventurous in places. Fortunately, the views over El Portet, Moraira and the Mediterranean make every step worthwhile.

Here’s everything you need to know about this beautiful walk in Moraira.

Torre de Vigia | The Historic Watchtower of Cap d’Or

High above El Portet stands Torre del Cap d’Or, also known as Torre de Vigia. This 16th-century watchtower was part of a coastal defence network built to protect local communities from pirate and corsair attacks. The watchmen kept a lookout across the Mediterranean and could warn neighbouring towns if danger approached. Today, it’s a wonderful destination for walkers. From the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular views towards Moraira, Calpe, Jávea and the beautiful coastline of the northern Costa Blanca. On exceptionally clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Ibiza on the horizon.
Our tip: bring your camera. The views from Cap d’Or are some of the most impressive in the Moraira area.

A Rather Unusual Restoration

The watchtower has undergone restoration work over the years. One particularly memorable detail is that building materials were transported to Cap d’Or by helicopter because the site is so difficult to reach. Imagine watching a helicopter carry construction materials up to the top of the headland! It’s a lovely piece of local history that makes the tower even more interesting.

The Cap d’Or Walking Route | Short but Challenging

The official walking route is known as SL-CV 51 Torre Vigía Cap d’Or. It starts in the El Portet area and leads uphill towards the historic tower. The first part takes you through the residential streets above El Portet. Once you reach Calle Puerto de Alcudia, the proper hillside trail begins. And that’s where things become more adventurous! The path is narrow and rocky, with loose stones, uneven surfaces and a fairly steep climb. To be fair, some sections feel more like a mountain goat track than an ordinary footpath. But the higher you climb, the better the views become. From the beginning of the rocky trail, allow approximately 30 minutes to reach the watchtower.

For a relaxed return walk, we’d allow around one to one and a half hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photographs.

If you’re starting down at El Portet beach, allow additional time. This walk is best suited to visitors who are reasonably fit, comfortable on uneven ground and wearing suitable footwear.

Cova de la Cendra | A Prehistoric Cave

Along the route, you’ll come to a junction with a separate path towards Cova de la Cendra. This remarkable cave is an important prehistoric archaeological site. It’s fascinating to think that people were visiting this part of the coastline thousands of years ago. However, the path towards the cave is rougher and more difficult than the main route to the watchtower. Access may also be restricted to protect the archaeological remains and surrounding environment.
Our tip: if your main reason for walking is the beautiful view, we’d recommend continuing directly towards Torre de Vigia.

Always respect local signs and any restrictions around the cave.

What Should You Take on the Torre de Vigia Walk?

Although the walk isn’t particularly long, a little preparation makes a big difference.

• Proper walking shoes | avoid flip-flops or shoes with slippery soles.
• Drinking water | there are no cafés or drinking water facilities along the hillside trail.
• Sun protection | much of the path is exposed to the sun.
• A camera or mobile phone | the views are wonderful.
• A small bag for rubbish | please take everything back down with you.

During July and August, we’d recommend starting early in the morning. Spring, autumn and sunny winter days are particularly pleasant for walking around Cap d’Or. Stay on the marked route and keep a safe distance from the cliff edges.

Where Does the Torre de Vigia Walk Start?

The official SL-CV 51 walking route starts near Playa del Portet in Moraira. From the El Portet area, follow the residential streets uphill via Calle Puerto Lápice, Puerto del Sol and Puerto de Andraitx towards Calle Puerto de Alcudia. This is where the rocky walking trail begins.
If you’re driving, you may be able to park in the surrounding residential area, but always respect local parking restrictions and private entrances. During the summer, parking around El Portet can be difficult.
Our tip: check the official route map before setting off, as footpaths and access arrangements can change.

View the official SL-CV 51 Cap d’Or walking route and map.

Combine the Walk with El Portet Beach

After your walk, why not head down to Playa del Portet? This sheltered bay is one of Moraira’s prettiest places, with clear Mediterranean water, a sandy beach and lovely waterfront terraces. We particularly enjoy stopping for a coffee or a refreshing drink after the climb. And from the beach, you can look back up towards the watchtower you’ve just visited! If you’d prefer a gentler coastal walk, we’d also recommend the Paseo Marítimo from Moraira to El Portet.

Discover More Beautiful Walks Around Moraira

One of the lovely things about staying in Moraira is that you can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday and still discover some wonderful walking routes. As well as Cap d’Or, the Paseo Ecológico along the Benissa Costa is another of our favourites. This beautiful coastal path offers spectacular sea views and passes several attractive coves.
At Moraira Holiday Homes, we’ve been helping guests find comfortable and luxury holiday villas in Moraira and the Benissa Costa since 2004. We live locally, know our properties personally and love sharing our favourite places with visitors.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Torre de Vigia Walk

Where Does the Torre de Vigia Walk Start?
The official SL-CV 51 route begins near El Portet beach in Moraira. You follow residential streets uphill towards Calle Puerto de Alcudia, where the rocky walking trail starts. It’s worth checking the official route map before setting off.

How Long Does the Cap d’Or Walk Take?
From the beginning of the rocky trail, the climb to the watchtower generally takes around 30 minutes. Allow approximately one to one and a half hours for a relaxed return walk. If you start at El Portet beach, allow additional time.

Is the Torre de Vigia Walk Difficult?
The walk is short but fairly steep and rocky. Some sections have loose stones and uneven surfaces, making proper walking shoes essential. It’s not recommended for visitors with limited mobility or very young children.

Can You Go Inside the Cap d’Or Watchtower?
The historic watchtower is normally admired from the outside. Entering the tower isn’t part of the regular walking route. The main attraction is the beautiful panoramic view of Moraira, El Portet and the Mediterranean.

Can You Visit Cova de la Cendra?
There is a separate path towards Cova de la Cendra, an important prehistoric cave. However, the route is more difficult than the main watchtower trail, and access to certain areas may be restricted. Always follow local signs and respect any closures.

What Is the Best Time of Year for the Cap d’Or Walk?
Spring, autumn and sunny winter days are particularly pleasant for walking to Cap d’Or. During the summer months, we’d recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the strongest heat. Bring drinking water and sun protection throughout the year.