Cova del Vell

Cova del Vell is a small karst cave in Xeraco, in the Valencian Community, Spain. It sits at roughly 40 metres above sea level, tucked into the rocky terrain of the Racó Ferragut area, in the Vinyoles district, close to the boundary with the town of Tavernes de la Valldigna.

What makes this cave worth a visit?

Cova del Vell combines two things that don't often go together: an easy, short walk and genuine archaeological weight. It's considered the oldest known trace of human presence in the area that is now Xeraco, dating back to the Lower Paleolithic. Excavations carried out in 1952 by Gurrea and Penalva uncovered pottery fragments, flint tools, bones and snail shells, confirming that the cave was used by people over a very long span of time.

How do you get there?

The route to Cova del Vell is short and doesn't require any climbing experience — it's a round trip of about 2 kilometres. The starting point is near the Safor service area (heading towards Alicante, right by the AP-7 motorway), or a pullout along the same road, surrounded by orange groves. A gap in a section of fencing lets walkers pass through on foot, and from there the route follows the white-and-orange markers of the Senda de la Taula trail before branching off onto a side path that leads directly to the cave.

What else draws people here?

The rock faces around Cova del Vell are also popular with climbers — several routes have been bolted in the area, including one known as "Diedro del Happy," roughly 80 metres long and rated 6a. That mix means the site attracts both casual visitors after a short walk with historical context and climbers looking for a route away from the crowds.

The surrounding landscape adds to the appeal on its own: rugged, rocky slopes rising above a valley lined with the citrus groves typical of the Safor region — a stretch of terrain that captures the contrast found along this part of the Valencian coast, where steep hillsides drop down into fertile coastal lowlands.

Who is this walk suited for?

The short distance and lack of technical difficulty make it a good fit for families with children and anyone after an undemanding nature walk with something to learn along the way. Sturdy footwear is worth packing regardless — the ground is rocky and uneven in places, even if the overall distance is modest.

Cova del Vell makes a solid option for anyone based near Gandia or Tavernes de la Valldigna who wants an alternative to the Costa Blanca beaches: a short outing that combines nature, history and a bit of physical activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the walk to Cova del Vell? It's a round trip of around 2 kilometres, starting from a pullout near the AP-7 motorway and ending at the cave.

Does the cave have historical significance? Yes — Cova del Vell has produced evidence of human presence dating to the Lower Paleolithic, including pottery fragments, flint tools and bones, making it the oldest known archaeological site in the Xeraco area.

Where can I park before starting the walk? The most convenient starting point is near the Safor service area on the AP-7 motorway (Alicante direction), or a nearby pullout surrounded by orange groves.

Can you go climbing near the cave? Yes, the rock faces around Cova del Vell are used by climbers, including a route called "Diedro del Happy," about 80 metres long.