Sierra de Bernia Loop: Guided Hike Through the Forat Tunnel

Planning a day of outdoor adventure in the Valencian Community? If you’re drawn to scenic mountain routes that combine natural beauty with a touch of history, then the Sierra de Bernia Loop is worth considering. This guided hike, approximately 6 hours long, offers a balanced mix of rugged terrain, impressive viewpoints, and intriguing landmarks like the Forat de Bernia tunnel and Fort de Bernia. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking for a moderate challenge, this experience is designed to deliver a memorable day without feeling overwhelming.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are two things: first, the expert guidance provided by a UK-trained Mountain Leader with local knowledge, which really enhances the experience; and second, the stunning coastal panoramas you get to enjoy from the ridge. The only potential consideration is that the terrain includes rocky paths and sections that require careful footing, so sturdy shoes are a must. This tour is best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness who want a good mix of natural beauty and history, without the intense commitment of a full-day trek.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Experience the unique Forat de Bernia tunnel with breathtaking views.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a knowledgeable, First Aid-certified guide who enhances the journey.
• Historical Landmarks: Visit the 16th-century Fort de Bernia, adding a cultural touch.
• Varied Scenery: From shaded woods to rocky ridges with coastal vistas.
• Comfort & Convenience: Logistics are handled, including transport and insurance.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes the Sierra de Bernia Loop Special?

This hike offers a well-rounded experience that blends natural landscapes, historical sites, and panoramic views. It’s perfect if you’re interested in exploring a coastal mountain range with an interesting past. The guided aspect means you’ll be in safe hands, especially with a guide who has local expertise and a First Aid certification. This helps you relax and focus on enjoying the scenery, rather than worrying about navigation or safety.

Starting Point and Access

The tour begins in the charming hamlet of Casas de Bernia, a quiet spot that feels just remote enough to get you into mountain mode quickly. From there, you’ll travel in a van—about 45 minutes—to the trailhead. This transportation setup is efficient and removes the hassle of navigating public transport or trying to find your way. The small group size (up to 8 people) makes for an intimate experience, ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch compared to large tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Pickup Locations

You have three options for pickup: Dénia, Calp, or Xàbia. This flexibility helps travelers plan their day without extra stress. After pickup, you’ll head to the starting point in a comfortable van, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes.

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2. Fort de Bernia

The hike begins with a visit to the Fort de Bernia, a 16th-century military bastion built to defend against pirate attacks. This site offers a glimpse into the region’s defense strategies and historical importance. Though the tour’s primary focus is on the natural landscape, the fort adds a cultural dimension, making the experience richer.

3. The Forat de Bernia

The highlight for many is the Forat de Bernia, a striking natural tunnel carved through the mountain. Passing through this 15-meter-long tunnel feels both adventurous and rewarding. The views from the tunnel are spectacular, providing sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean coastline, including Altea Bay and Sierra Gelada. It’s a moment that tends to stick with hikers long after the day ends.

4. Ascending the Ridge

After passing through the tunnel, the trail follows the southern ridge, where you’ll encounter dramatic cliffside views. Here, the terrain becomes more rugged, with rocky paths requiring careful footing. The guide’s local knowledge and safety measures help keep everyone comfortable. This section is a favorite for the scenery, offering panoramic vistas that stretch across the coast and inland mountains.

5. Loop Return and Descent

The route loops back through rocky terrain, descending towards the starting point. Along the way, you’ll continue to enjoy breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot local flora and fauna. The entire hike covers approximately 9 km, with a mix of shaded woodland sections, rocky stretches, and ridge walks.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Terrain and Difficulty

The trail is classified as moderate—suitable for those with a decent level of fitness. The rocky paths and sections with steep ascents mean sturdy footwear is essential. If you’re comfortable on uneven ground and enjoy a bit of a challenge, you’ll find this hike satisfying without it being overly strenuous.

Duration and Pacing

The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, breaks, and the actual hiking time. The schedule is fairly relaxed, with a 20-minute break halfway through, giving you time to rest, hydrate, and take photos.

What To Bring

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, preferably hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers, along with snacks, water, sunscreen, and a light jacket. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so being prepared is key.

Additional Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, those with mobility impairments, or travelers over 70. The terrain’s rocky nature and steep sections could pose challenges for some. However, if you’re in good shape and enjoy moderate hikes, this tour offers a rewarding experience.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the package includes all logistics, insurance, and guidance, which adds value. The personalized, small-group setting enhances the experience, making it worthwhile for those who appreciate tailored guidance and memorable scenery.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One review mentions the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, which added significantly to the experience. Another traveler appreciated the stunning views from the ridge, describing it as “a perfect mix of natural beauty and history.” The safety measures, like First Aid certification, also give peace of mind, especially when traversing rocky paths.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a moderate challenge with exceptional views and a touch of history, this hike hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value having a knowledgeable guide along and prefer smaller groups for a more personalized experience. It’s ideal for those who want a day out connecting with nature, seeing coastal landmarks, and exploring historical sites all in one go.

That said, if you’re not comfortable with uneven terrain or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. Also, for families with young children or those seeking a casual stroll, the rocky sections may be less suitable.

The Sierra de Bernia Loop offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, history, and moderate adventure — the kind of experience that leaves you with plenty of memorable moments and fantastic photos.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not really—it’s designed for participants over 10 years old due to the rocky terrain and moderate difficulty.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for rocky paths, and bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and a light jacket in case the weather changes.

How long is the hike?
The actual hiking time is around 3 hours, spread out over the day with breaks and transportation included, totaling approximately 6 hours.

Are the views worth it?
Absolutely—expect stunning vistas of the Mediterranean coastline, cliffs, and mountain peaks from the ridge and around the tunnel.

Is insurance included?
Yes, the tour includes insurance, providing added peace of mind.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized guidance.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, the guide speaks English, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

What’s the terrain like?
The trail includes rocky paths, steep ascents, and narrow sections requiring careful footing.

How do I get to the starting point?
Pickup options are available from Dénia, Calp, or Xàbia, with transportation in a comfortable van.

If you’re craving a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and coastal views, this guided Sierra de Bernia Loop is a solid choice. It offers a genuine connection with the landscape and a chance to see some of Spain’s scenic highlights from a perspective that’s both active and relaxed.

You can check availability for your dates here: