Río Algar

The Río Algar rises from several karst springs at the western end of the Sierra de Bérnia, where it meets the Sierra del Ferrer, a short distance from the centre of Callosa d'en Sarrià toward Bolulla and Tárbena. It's a short river — only about 14 kilometres long before it reaches the sea — but its flow stays remarkably steady thanks to these springs.

A landscape shaped by water

The river's origin is tied to karst processes: water works its way through Eocene limestone, producing numerous springs and a landscape of gorges and pools. Its best-known stretch, the Fuentes del Algar, is followed by a path of roughly 1.5 kilometres along the riverbed, past waterfalls, natural pools and dense Mediterranean vegetation on the slopes.

Downstream, the river irrigates part of Callosa's orchards, historically known for loquat growing, before continuing toward the coastal plain. Trails from here connect to nearby ranges such as the Sierra de Aitana and the Forat de Bernia, making it a common starting point for longer hikes inland in the Marina Baixa.

The open stretch of the river is free to walk; only the developed section at Fuentes del Algar, run as a bathing area, charges admission. Early mornings in the summer months are the best time to go, before it gets busier.