Overview
Length: 14km
Elevation: 900m
Type: Loop
Time: 1hrs 50m
Introduction
I’d never heard of the Forat de Bérnia until I stumbled across it in a local Facebook group one evening. As soon as I saw the pictures, I was obsessed! A tunnel cutting through the mountain with views to the other side…it was like something from a fantasy movie. I had to go! Naturally, I bugged Markus all week about it until he caved. I also hoped it might be a good trail to try as a family when the kids came to visit that summer.
We ran the route ourselves first, but later we returned with the kids (not running!) and it became a family favourite. There’s something magical about the Forat: the winding trails, the history, and the views that stretch forever. It might even be our favourite spot in Alicante – apart from our beloved Racó de la Xara restaurant, of course. 😊
About the Sierra de Bérnia
The Sierra de Bérnia is a breathtaking mountain range that offers some of the most dramatic views on the Costa Blanca. At its heart is the fantastic Forat de Bérnia, a natural tunnel carved through the mountain by centuries of water erosion. This passage links one valley to another, and emerging on the other side feels like stepping into a whole new world. You’re rewarded with sweeping views over the Algar Valley, Altea Bay, and even the distant Benidorm skyline.
With its mix of stunning scenery, fascinating history and unspoiled natural beauty, the Sierra de Bérnia has it all.
The trails are dotted with highlights like the remains of El Fort de Bérnia, a 16th-century fortress built to defend against pirate attacks. Along the way, you’ll also find El Font de Bérnia, a natural spring that provides a refreshing pause.
The Sierra is home to diverse wildlife, from foxes and wild boar to soaring birds of prey and mountain gotas. For me, though, the real magic is the moment you crawl through the Forat and see the jaw-dropping amphitheatre of mountains and coastline on the other side.
Whether you’re here for the history (forgot to say—there are cave paintings on this route!) the adventure, or just the incredible views, the Sierra de Bérnia is a must-visit.
The Trail Running Route
We found the perfect trail on Wikiloc—it includes the famous Forat, the optional (and quite difficult) mountain summit, and several other fascinating stops along the way.
It’s one of those trails that packs so much into a single loop that you’ll want to take your time exploring.
We parked at the Cases de Bérnia, a small hamlet at the foot of the mountain. The trail starts immediately at the Font del Runar, a spring tucked away at the base of the mountain.
From there, the trail winds upwards, passing the cave paintings at Ermita del Vicari. The first highlight is then, of course, the Forat de Bérnia. Crawling through the 50-meter tunnel is an adventure in itself…It’s the kind of view that makes you stop and say, “This is why we do this.”
But not for too long—we still have a mountain to climb!
The route continues past the Font de Bérnia, a peaceful spot perfect for a water break before heading towards the Calloado de Jalón. For those looking for a real challenge, you can tackle the optional summit. It’s not for the faint-hearted—you’ll need to navigate ropes and chains embedded in the rock walls. Markus was all for it, of course, while I decided to stay below and enjoy the views (and keep my feet firmly on the ground).
That final route was one too far for me unfortunately, as I’d sprained my ankle doing a similar route a month previously.
It wasn’t all bad though. If you’re lucky like me, you might even spot a mountain goat leaping effortlessly across the craggy peaks!
The Sierra de Bérnia is a trail we’ll keep coming back to, whether for the views, the challenge, or just to remind ourselves how incredible the Costa Blanca can be.
If you’re in the area, this is one you absolutely can’t miss!
Wikiloc route
View through the Forat de Bérnia, with views over Benidorm.
Climbing ropes to reach the summit.
The Bernia fort.
Cave paintings.