Fort de Bèrnia
Explore the historic ruins and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Fort de Bèrnia, a must-visit hiking destination.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Fort de Bèrnia
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic ruins and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Fort de Bèrnia, a must-visit hiking destination.
"Some of the best mountain views I have ever seen."
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. Pack more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fort Ruins
Summit area
Explore the excavated stone ruins of the historic fort, offering a glimpse into the past.
Panoramic Mountain and Coastal Views
Along the trails and at the fort
Marvel at stunning vistas stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the inland mountains.
The 'Forat' (Hole)
Part of the circular hike
A unique natural rock formation that's part of the scenic circular hiking route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Trail Conditions and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. Pack more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
Check for Excavation Access
Parts of the fort may be fenced off for archaeological work. Check local updates. :construction:
Consider a Circular Route
The PR-CV48 offers a beautiful loop with diverse scenery and views. :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. Pack more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
Check for Excavation Access
Parts of the fort may be fenced off for archaeological work. Check local updates. :construction:
Consider a Circular Route
The PR-CV48 offers a beautiful loop with diverse scenery and views. :round_pushpin:
Be Wary of Wildlife
Some hikers have encountered bulls on the return path. Be cautious, especially in the evening. :cow:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from Fort de Bèrnia, describing them as some of the best mountain vistas they've ever seen. The excavated ruins, though not extensive, add a historical dimension to the experience. While the hikes can be demanding, the overall consensus is that the scenery and the mystical atmosphere of the site make it a worthwhile destination.
"I have been here a few times recently. The site has been excavated and so it gives an impression of what the fort might look like. However, it is also fenced off to avoid disturbance. The location was a great place to eat our sandwiches and discover the view, with the main ridge behind you."
Laurie Monk
"The fort now has a fence on three sides, and has to be accessed from below. It is fun to see how much more of the ruins have become visible as a result of the excavation."
Gjerulf Noddeland
"Great walk up from the Pinos direction. Not at all difficult but some of the best mountain views I have ever seen
The fort is a collection of stone ruined arches, not so much, but that isn't why you come here. You can carry on round the mountain and come back to where you started, which is a bit harder, but still not a demanding walk.
Update 2025. The fort has been excavated and is now an impressive structure, Well worth the visit. It is astonishing how much was hidden and which has been so quickly exposed."
Ralph Holtom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort de Bèrnia is accessible via a day trip from Benidorm. You can take a tram to Altea (approx. 15 mins) and then potentially arrange further transport or hike from there. Alternatively, driving to the area takes about 40 minutes from Benidorm. +1
A common starting point is the parking lot near the 'Forat de Bèrnia', which facilitates a circular 12km hike. Another route starts from Les Fonts d'Algar.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the starting point of many of the hiking routes, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
It's possible to start a hike from Altea, though it would be a longer and more demanding route. Many visitors opt to drive closer to the trailhead.
The fort is located near Callosa d'en Sarrià. Use GPS coordinates for the trailhead parking area, often found by searching for 'Forat de Bèrnia parking'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to visit Fort de Bèrnia or hike the surrounding trails. It's a natural attraction accessible to the public.
Fort de Bèrnia is an outdoor natural site and hiking area, so it does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The fort ruins themselves are part of the natural landscape and hiking trails, and there is no admission fee to see them.
While the trails are generally open, parts of the fort ruins may be temporarily fenced off due to ongoing archaeological excavations.
Yes, Fort de Bèrnia can be visited year-round. However, it's advisable to choose a day with good weather, especially for hiking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the excavated stone ruins of the fort, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the coast and mountains, and hike scenic trails like the circular route around the mountain. 
The duration varies greatly depending on the chosen route. A circular hike can take around 3.5 to 4 hours, not including stops for photos or rest.
The difficulty varies. Some trails are described as easy and short, while others are more demanding with significant elevation gain. Proper footwear is recommended.
Expect breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing the Mediterranean coastline, Altea, Benidorm, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the fort ruins or trailheads. It's advisable to come prepared with all necessities.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit area offers incredible panoramic shots. Look for vantage points along the trails that capture both the rugged mountain landscape and the distant coastline.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more dramatic lighting for photography, enhancing the landscape and reducing harsh shadows.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in natural parks and protected areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the landscape. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The excavated ruins themselves offer interesting textures and shapes. The 'Forat' (hole) also provides a unique framing opportunity for landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize the adventure aspect of exploring ruins and enjoying nature. The stunning views can captivate older children, and the sense of discovery at the archaeological site adds an educational element. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes, and be mindful of the terrain's unevenness.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will be drawn to the diverse landscapes, from rocky outcrops to Mediterranean scrub. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna. Remember to pack essentials like a first-aid kit, navigation tools, and extra food and water, especially for longer treks.
📸 Photographers
Bring a range of lenses to capture both sweeping panoramas and intricate details. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing the best light and stable shots. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, which can add dramatic flair to your photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Archaeology of Fort de Bèrnia
Recent archaeological work has uncovered more of the fort's structure, revealing stone arches and foundations that offer a clearer impression of its past layout. This ongoing excavation is making the site even more compelling for history enthusiasts. While some areas are fenced off for preservation and study, the exposed ruins are a testament to the fort's historical significance and provide a tangible connection to the region's past defenses.
The fort's location also played a role in local legends and historical events, adding a layer of mystique to the site. Exploring the ruins, even in their current state, allows visitors to imagine the lives of the soldiers who once garrisoned this remote outpost and to appreciate the strategic foresight of its construction.
Hiking Trails and Routes
Another well-regarded route is the PR-CV48, which connects Les Fonts d'Algar to Fort de Bèrnia. This trail is known for its natural beauty, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna. The elevation gain on these trails can be significant, with some routes involving over 1300 meters of ascent, so proper preparation and fitness are advised.
+1While many trails are manageable, it's important to be aware of potential challenges. Some hikers have reported encountering wildlife, such as bulls, on their return journeys, particularly in the evening. Always wear appropriate hiking footwear, carry sufficient water, and be mindful of the weather conditions.
Photography Opportunities
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the textures of the mountains and the shimmering sea, creating a magical atmosphere. The ruins of the fort itself, with their weathered stone arches, provide unique foreground elements and a sense of historical depth to your shots.
+1Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the scenery and a telephoto lens to focus on specific mountain features or distant coastal details. The 'Forat' (hole) in the rock also offers a natural frame for stunning landscape photographs. Remember to pack a sturdy tripod for stable shots, especially if you plan to stay for sunrise or sunset.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit