Denia and the Valleys.
The excursion which we are proposing first cuts through the old Marquisate of Denia. The
landscape is mountainous and bears the traces of the presence of the Moriscos and it is perhaps the most representative of the inland
regions.
A local highway which skirts the coast will lead the traveller to Pego, passing the Safari Park on the right. Pego, (about 2km from Denia) is an important farming community,
dedicated chiefly to the growing of rice and citrus fruits. |
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From here, the itinerary will follow the local road 3311 through the mountains and past tiny towns, which guard some reminder of their
Moorish past. Al-Azraq was born here in the 13C, an almost legendary figure who fought against the troops of Jaime I at the Alcoy ramparts.
According to tradition, which is perpetuated in the Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos, San Jorge de Capodocia was responsible for obtaining
the victory for the Christian King. The slopes covered with fig, cherry, olive and almond trees, vineyards and he ruins of fortresses
define the horizon in these silent valleys.
Planes (30km from Pego) is the next stop on our trip. Just before we reach the town, the highway runs past Barranco de la Encantada,
one of the most beautiful settings in the entire area. The town, located on the slopes of a hill and at the foot of a castle, is a faithful
reminder of medieval urbanism. Some mansions and the small retables of tile which make up the Via Crucis are the most characteristic tourist
features of Planes. Near the town, in a shady and cool setting, is the 16C or 17C aqueduct with Gothic arches, which is a delightful corner
to spend some free time.
Further on, in the same direction and crossing national highway 340, the traveller will come to Agres (about 15km away) at the foot of
the Sierra de Mariola. Soon after, and worthy of a stop, is Frare (Fraile-Friar) de Agres, a rock of an unusual shape, from which a spring
of thermal waters flows surrounded by lush vegetation. Once in the town, the traveller should begin the ascent of the Stations of the
cross, which offer a splendid view. At the highest point is a small convent -La Mare de Deu d'Agres- which, according to tradition, is
located on a site which was miraculously selected by the image which is worshipped there.
The surroundings of Agres have always been popular among hikers. In addition to real botanical rarities, such as the small forest of
yews which are reputed to be the most southerly in Europe, to the caves which were used to store snow until the summer in another period
-pous de la neu-, any corner can be the setting for a most pleasant stroll. The proximity of Mariola, on whose slopes a great variety
of aromatic plants grow, is also highly recommended area of nature.
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