ALBIR LIGHTHOUSE

Visit the pretty white working lighthouse at the end of the Natural park, symbol of the welcoming international community in Albir.

ALBIR LIGHTHOUSE

Visit the pretty white working lighthouse at the end of the Natural park, symbol of the welcoming international community in Albir.

 

This very pretty working lighthouse is situated at one end of the Sierra Helada natural park, perched on a high rock overlooking the sea.

Built on 30 April 1863, the original approach to it was via a winding and often treacherous pathway close to the sea and only accessible by donkey or on foot.

“Albir lighthouse perches on a rock at the end of the Sierra Helada natural park,

a symbol of the welcoming, international community

History of the lighthouse

The lighthouse has since been improved by a good tarmacadam access (no cars are allowed). The original lighthouse used to be the home of the person who looked after the original flame, which was oil powered (the oil had to be bought by donkey) but now the lighthouse is automated and powered by renewable solar energy.

Torre Bombarda -fighting the smugglers

Alongside the lighthouse is a historic tower the Torre Bombarda, which pre-dates the lighthouse by several hundred years. This was used to protect the coast and the town’s inhabitants from invasion from Berber pirates and smugglers.

A symbol of Alfaz del Pi

The lighthouse has become a symbol of Albir, which seems appropriate for a town, which is so welcoming and tolerant; leading the way in creating an integrated sustainable community and really being a progressive beacon for others to follow.

Visitor information

There is an interpretation centre, which was created in 2011 to create an active museum with old photographs and old equipment from the early days. (open mornings only in winter, mornings and afternoons in summer)

How to get to Albir lighthouse

The lighthouse can only be reached on foot (or bike) and the walk to it is started from the entrance to the Sierra Helada natural park. There is a large car park as well as a new visitor centre, which is open most days. To reach the natural park from the anchor monument on the seafront, take the road above it by Kasbrane cafeteria (in front of the Correos Post Office) and head uphill, following the road for around 600m. The entrance to the car park is at the top of the street.

 

Walking routes:

Walk 1: The Lighthouse walk

The most popular walk is along the tarmac road from the Visitor centre to the Light house (see separate section) Walk or cycle, dogs on leads.

Statistics

  • Distance approx 4.5 km round trip
  • Easy/moderate terrain
  • Approx time 1 hour

How to get to the Lighthouse walk. From the centre of Albir, take the road above the anchor monument(alongside the Bar Kazbrane). Follow the road up the hill, be careful of cyclists coming downhill) and after about 600 metres, you will see the entrance to the Natural park car park. The lighthouse is at the end of a reasonably flat but windy road, just under2.5km each way.

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Walk 2: The climb to the antennae

This is more of an “off piste” adventure, although still following clearly sign posted pathways. At times it is quite steep, and sometimes the path is less steady with loose stones and the occasional boulder, so it is not recommended for the elderly or those with mobility problems. Reaching the top of the mountain takes about 45 minutes, although you are rewarded with the most stunning views, including breath – taking cliffs and rock formations, an impressive aerial view of Albir

Statistics

  • Distance 7 Km round trip
  • Moderately difficult (some scrambling and steep ascents.)
  • Allow 2 hours min

How to get to the antennae walk – From the visitor centre/ entrance to the natural park, start the main walk, passing the picnic area. Just at the next bend there is a large map and the trail starts uphill to the right of the board. Follow the signs, you will see the antennae on the mountain top as you approach.

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Walk 3: The 7 Peaks of the Sierra Helada

This is the most challenging walk of the Sierra Gelada natural park as the walk passes along the seven peaks between Benidorm and Albir. You can walk in either direction, but remember to arrange transport at the other end as it is one way. The panoramic views are breath-taking, and well worth all the climbing up and down.This is only recommended for people with moderately high fitness levels and full mobility.

Statistics

  • Distance 11km one-way trip
  • Moderately difficult, but worth the challenge!
  • Allow 4.5 hours

How to get to the Sierra Gelada mountain walk – From Albir, the walk starts at the Sierra Gelada visitor centre and follows the initial route to the antennae (as above). There is then a marked pathway up and down seven peaks, before arriving at the Cross in Benidorm. Many walkers prefer to get a lift to the Cross and then follow the trail back to Albir.

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