How to Access the Sierra de Irta in Summer: Complete Guide

If you are planning your stay in Alcossebre or Peñíscola, you may wonder how to access the Sierra de Irta in summer, as it is one of the most valued natural spots on the Castellón coastline. During the summer season, access to this protected area is subject to certain restrictions to ensure its conservation. In this article, we provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit safely, respectfully, and enjoyably.

Where is the Sierra de Irta and why is it worth visiting?

The Sierra de Irta is a natural park that stretches over about 15 km of coastline between the municipalities of Alcossebre and Peñíscola. It is characterized by the absence of buildings, exceptional biodiversity, and a coastline dotted with small coves such as Cala Mundina, Cala Argilaga, or Cala Blanca—perfect for those who want to escape the more crowded beaches.

*Sierra de Irta Natural Park and Marine Reserve – Alcossebre Sea Experience*

Available access to the Sierra de Irta in high season

Access from Alcossebre (southern area of the park)

From Alcossebre, the main access to the Sierra de Irta is located near the Alcossebre Lighthouse, where you can park your vehicle in a designated area. From there, a forest track runs along the coast toward Peñíscola. During the summer, vehicle traffic is often restricted—only walking, cycling, or special authorization is allowed.

Access from Peñíscola (northern area of the park)

In the northern part, access is via the Font Nova Urbanization, from which several paths head toward coves such as Cala Volante or Cala Puerto Azul. As above, it’s recommended to check in advance the regulations in force because some routes may be closed to traffic during high season.

Regulation of coastal access in the Sierra de Irta in summer

During the summer period (from June 21 to September 7, 2025), motor vehicle access to the coastal track of the Sierra de Irta is restricted to protect this unique ecosystem.

Why is the access limited?

Motor vehicle traffic damages vegetation, produces dust and noise, and negatively affects fauna.
The aim is to preserve the natural beauty, enhance visitor safety, and reduce overtourism.

How is this regulation applied?

Two controlled barriers are installed:

One in the north, near Peñíscola (Torre Badum).
Another in the south, from Alcossebre (Ribamar track).

Only the following may pass:

Visitors with a reserved parking spot.
Property owners or residents with authorization.
Vehicles authorized by the Park.

How to reserve to visit coves by car?

Go to the online reservation page: www.tramita.gva.es
Make the parking reservation 2–3 days before your visit.
Parking is only allowed within the assigned area.
Night parking and overnight stays are not permitted.
If entering between 08:00 and 19:30, reservation is still required.

What if I am a property owner or resident?

You must send to the following email serra_irta@gva.es:

Proof of property ownership.
License plates of the vehicles.
Contact phone number

For more official information, you can consult the Sierra de Irta Natural Park website: Regulation of the coastal track (GVA)

Failure to comply with these measures may lead to fines and seriously damage the natural environment.

The most recommended coves for your visit

Based on the most common Google searches, these are the most valued coves to enjoy during summer in the Sierra de Irta:

Cala Mundina: close to Alcossebre and easy to access.
Cala Argilaga: intimate and less crowded.
Cala Blanca: known for its crystal-clear waters.
Cala Volante: one of the wildest, accessible from Peñíscola.
Cala de Ribamar: perfect for those wanting to fully disconnect.

Each offers a different experience, all framed within a high-value ecological and scenic environment.

Practical tips for enjoying your visit

Check the weather forecast before starting your route.
Avoid midday heat if accessing on foot or by bike.
Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear.
Download trail maps beforehand if possible.
Remember you are in a protected natural area; your conduct is essential for its preservation.

Visiting the Sierra de Irta in summer is a unique opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form. Knowing how to access the Sierra de Irta in summer and respecting the rules will help preserve this natural treasure for future generations while offering you an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Where to stay to visit the Sierra de Irta: Alcossebre Sea Experience

If you wish to enjoy the Sierra de Irta in summer with maximum comfort, we recommend staying at Alcossebre Sea Experience, a premium aparthotel located by the sea and within short distance of the main park access points.

Our apartments, fully equipped with private terraces, allow you to rest after your routes through the Sierra or your days at the coves. In addition, you can enjoy exclusive facilities such as:

Infinity pool with Mediterranean views
Spa and wellness area
Gym and heated indoor pool
Private parking and direct beach access

Alcossebre-Sea-Experience-Aparthotel-4-Estrellas-Piscina-Infantil-Jardin-Hamacas — *Alcossebre Sea Experience*

By booking directly through our website, you will have access to the best guaranteed rates, preferential conditions and personalised service before, during and after your stay.

Reserve today on www.alcossebreseaexperience.com and secure your ideal accommodation to explore the Sierra de Irta this summer.

Festivals of Alcossebre

We invite you to discover the Alcossebre festivals, the most important and traditional festivals of this wonderful town.

Festivals in Alcossebre 2024

If you want to know the schedule of patron saint festivities in Alcala Alcossebre for 2024, you can download the festivities program here.

ALCOSSEBRE 2024 FESTIVALS — Alcossebre 2024 Festival Program Poster

If you are looking for a holiday full of culture and tradition, Alcossebre is the perfect destination. There are numerous traditions and festivals in Alcossebre throughout the year that will transport you to the true essence of the Valencian Community.

January: Foguera de Sant Antoni in Alcossebre

During this festivity, bonfires are lit in the town centre, specifically in front of the Alcossebre medical centre. In addition, popular paellas are enjoyed with musical performances to liven up the atmosphere.

February: Carnival

Carnival is considered, for the youngest, as one of the biggest festivities in Alcossebre. It is a very lively and colourful festival of the year.

The Alcossebre Carnival is dominated by parades: on Friday morning there is a school parade; and at night there is “La Noche del Pijama” with a small parade and a big party in the Espai d’Oci de Alcossebre with the performance of a musical group followed by DJs. The main event takes place on Saturday, during the afternoon there is a children’s parade with churros and free chocolate for everyone and, at night, the Gran Desfile de Colles is celebrated with handmade costumes and ends with a big party in the Espai d’Oci with the performance of an orchestra. Don’t miss the opportunity to live an authentic Carnival party in Alcossebre!

April: Easter

During Easter, Alcossebre fills up with tourists from all over Spain to enjoy a few days of sun and beach. It is common to eat Easter cake on the town’s beaches or in a cove in the Serra d’Irta after hiking. Discover the map of coves in the Serra d’Irta here.

On the other hand, if during your holidays you would like to attend religious and cultural events, we suggest you go to the neighbouring town of Acalà de Xivert where you can find processions, masses and dramatised acts of the Passion.

May: San Isidro and the Festa de la Mare de Déu dels Desamparats in Alcalà

In May, the festival of San Isidro, patron saint of farmers and farm workers, is celebrated. In Alcalà de Xivert, this festivity is celebrated with processions and a blessing of the fields. In addition, the Festa de la Mare de Déu dels Desamparats is celebrated, a religious festival in which homage is paid to the Virgin Mary.

June: Festivity of Sant Benet and Saint John’s Eve

In June, the festivity of Sant Benet, patron saint of the hermitage of Santa Lucia, is celebrated. This festivity is celebrated with a series of cultural and religious activities at the hermitage where homage is paid to the patron saint.

In addition, on 23 June, the Noche de San Juan is celebrated, a festival in which bonfires are lit, parades with music are held and fireworks are set off at midnight. For more information about this activity we suggest you read this blog entry.

July: Feast of Sant Antoni in Capicorb

In the month of July, the festival of Sant Antoni is celebrated in Capicorb, a small hamlet located in the Sierra de Irta. During this festivity, different cultural and religious activities are held in honour of the patron saint.

August: Patron saint festivities in honour of the patron saint in Alcalá de Xivert

In August, the Fiestas Patronales in honour of San Juan Bautista are held in Alcalà de Xivert. During these festivities, the town is filled with music, dances, firework displays, activities for children and adults, competitions and much more.

September: Patron saint’s festivities and Harley and Custom meeting.

In September, the Harley and Custom Meeting takes place in Alcossebre. This event brings together hundreds of motorcyclists from all over the world to enjoy shows, competitions, live music and other activities related to the world of motorbikes.

Also in September, the Fiestas Patronales de Alcossebre are held where bullfighting events are held in a square in the middle of the seafront promenade of Alcossebre. Here you can find different marquees where it is possible to have drinks and food. During all the afternoons and evenings of the week-long festival there are concerts by musical groups and DJs. For more information we suggest you to download the Fiestas Programme (valid for download mid August).

October: Penjar Tomato Fair

In October, the Penjar Tomato Fair takes place in Alcalà de Xivert. During this fair, this type of tomato, native to the Baix Maestrat region, is promoted and sold. There are also tastings, competitions, workshops and other activities related to gastronomy.

Also in October, the Fiestas de Santa Teresa are held in Alcalà de Xivert, in honour of the patron saint of the town. During these festivities, there are processions, activities for children and adults, and live music.

December: Feast of Saint Lucia

Finally, in December, the Fiesta de Santa Lucia is celebrated in Alcossebre, with a wide variety of activities for all the family, including processions, concerts and much more.

In addition, there is also a Christmas Fair, where you can find all kinds of typical Christmas products.

In conclusion, Alcossebre’s traditions and festivals are an important part of its cultural heritage and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture during your holiday.

If you want more information about the festivities and traditions of Alcossebre we invite you to click here and discover the official agenda of Turismo Alcalà – Alcossebre with all the activities to do in Alcossebre during your holidays. Travelling with children in Alcossebre is now easier because

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy these unique festivities during your stay in Alcossebre and make sure you book your stay at our aparthotel for a complete and comfortable experience!