La Cova Negra i l'Estret de les Aigües

Where the Albaida river carves its way through the mountains of the serra Grossa, near Xàtiva, sits one of inland Valencia's natural corners. La Cova Negra and the Estret de les Aigües form a municipal natural area where water, rock and shade combine to make a cool, peaceful walk that suits everyone.

What to see

The star here is the narrow gorge the river opens between stone walls, modest but photogenic. Above it sits the cave that gives the place its name: a shelter once inhabited by Neanderthals and a reference site for European prehistory. Walking up to it means following in the footsteps of these lands' earliest dwellers.

The walk

A flat, well-marked path runs alongside the water up to the cave. It is an easy route, good for families and for enjoying the setting without effort.

• Wear comfortable shoes: the path is simple but can be stony in places.
• Bring water and, in summer, choose the cooler hours.
• Pair it with a visit to Xàtiva castle to round off the day.

Find more nature plans nearby in our guide to natural pools near Valencia.