El Forat de Bernia - Hiking on the Costa Blanca

The appeal of Forat de Bèrnia lies in the change of scenery as you pass through the rock. The natural tunnel opens onto views towards Altea, Serra Gelada and the Mediterranean, bringing the coastline back into sight after the approach through the mountains. 

Treat this as a separate day out from Moraira. Allow time for the drive, preparation at the trailhead and a comfortable return before dark.

Circular Route at a Glance

For the Cases de Bèrnia circular itinerary, Benissa Tourism publishes:

• Distance: 8.52km.
• Cumulative ascent: Approximately 453m.
• Estimated walking time: 3 hours 20 minutes.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Route type: Circular.

Allow longer for photographs, food breaks and careful progress over rocky ground. These figures describe the circuit promoted by Benissa Tourism; other Bèrnia routes have different starting points and measurements. 

Getting to Cases de Bèrnia

Use Cases de Bèrnia, also written Casas de Bèrnia, as your destination, then check the starting point against the official route map.

The CV-749 connects Xaló and Benissa via Bèrnia, with a local access road serving Cases de Bèrnia. From Moraira or Altea, plan your drive to this specific trailhead rather than to a general “Sierra de Bèrnia” location.

Park only where permitted around the starting area, keeping access to homes, businesses and tracks clear. Check local signs rather than assuming every roadside space is available.

Following the Circuit

The Benissa Tourism route starts at Cases de Bèrnia and heads towards Font de Bèrnia before approaching the Forat. After crossing the tunnel, the circuit continues around the mountain, taking in the fort before returning to the starting area.

Keep your chosen route map available at junctions. Paths connecting to Altea la Vella and other locations can lead onto substantially longer outings.

What Is the Tunnel Like?

The Forat is a low natural passage where you need to crouch in some sections before it widens towards the southern opening. 

Move slowly, watch your head and allow space between walkers. Consider whether you are comfortable with a confined passage before committing to the full circuit.

Visiting the Forat Without Completing the Circuit

A return walk from Cases de Bèrnia towards the Forat is a different itinerary from the full loop. Retracing your approach can shorten the outing, but it still involves mountain terrain.

The 8.52km distance and 453m ascent apply to the circular route, not a tunnel-only visit. Check a map for your chosen turnaround point and remember that crossing the tunnel and returning means negotiating the low passage twice.

Terrain and Preparation

Expect rocky paths, climbing and uneven footing. The moderate rating should be considered alongside your experience, fitness and the weather.

Wear hiking footwear with good grip and carry water, food, sun protection and an extra layer. Avoid setting out in extreme heat, strong winds, thunderstorms or poor visibility. This route is unsuitable for pushchairs.

Official Map and Current Trail Information

Use the Benissa Tourism Bèrnia route guide and its linked Benissa Turisme map and GPS track.

The FEMECV trail record describes a longer itinerary from Altea la Vella and notes that current signposting and maintenance cannot be assumed to be optimal. Check local conditions and carry a map rather than relying entirely on trail markings.

If You Enjoyed This, You May Also Enjoy

• Cala Moraig to Cala Llebeig Walk
• Benissa Coastal Walk
• More Walks in Moraira and Nearby

Images: @mukutan.