El Xorrador

El Xorrador is a spring-fed fall at the foot of the Barranc del Cint ravine paths above Alcoi, on the southwestern slope of the Serra de Mariola. The water comes from the Xorrador spring and the flow drops in dry months, so the fall looks its best in spring after rain. The setting is pine and limestone, with fountains along the way, and it pairs naturally with the Barranc del Cint gorge and the nearby Racó de Sant Bonaventura, another green corner in the Serra de Mariola area.

The walk

Routes start around the Preventori area, at the gate of the natural park, and link the hermitage terrace, the gorge riverbed and the fall in loops from the Preventori area, at a medium grade. Paths are stony and stepped in places, with stretches without shade, so carry water and wear shoes with grip.

Getting there

Drive to Alcoi, about 95 km from València; a car is needed, as no public transport reaches the trailheads. Park around the Preventori and follow the signed paths towards the Barranc del Cint and the Xorrador spring.

Tips

• Go after rainy weeks: the spring-fed flow is weak in summer.
• Start early to walk the exposed sections before midday.
• Do not drink from the spring without confirmation that the water is fit; its regime and drinkability are unverified.