Mascarat Gorge Barranc del Mascarat - Image 1
1 / 3

Mascarat Gorge Barranc del Mascarat

4.6
·390 reviews·Pueblo Mascarat, Spain

A dramatic gorge on the Costa Blanca featuring historic bridges, towering cliffs, and a unique blend of nature and engineering.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday sun

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Mascarat Gorge Barranc del Mascarat - Image 1

Mascarat Gorge Barranc del Mascarat

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday sun

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dramatic gorge on the Costa Blanca featuring historic bridges, towering cliffs, and a unique blend of nature and engineering.

4.6
(390 reviews)

"Spectacular place with its deep sides, flowering oleander and three bridges overhead."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good shoes for navigating rocky spots and boulders. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

There's no shade, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Bridges

Historic Bridges

Over the gorge

Marvel at three distinct bridges: a masonry bridge (1885), a cement bridge (1925), and a railway bridge (1915).

Dramatic Cliffs

Dramatic Cliffs

Within the gorge

Walk through narrow stone corridors between towering, majestic cliffs carved by nature.

Bungee Jumping Point

Bungee Jumping Point

Cement bridge

Experience an adrenaline rush with a bungee jump from the historic cement bridge.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Gorge

The Mascarat Gorge (Barranc del Mascarat) offers a unique adventure with rocky terrain and impressive bridges. Wear sturdy shoes, as the path involves clambering over boulders. Bring water, especially in summer, as there's little shade. Parking is available on the residential street above the trail.

Bridge Views & Bungee

This short hike showcases three historic bridges, remnants of old railway and road infrastructure. For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping is available from the cement bridge. The canyon's dramatic cliffs and the sight of stones trapped within are a major draw.

Best Times

When
Morning or late afternoon
Why
Avoid midday sun
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to the Machu Picchu in Spain! ⛰️✨ 📍MASCA is a must stop that you have to visit if or if you come to Tenerife. 🌋 ✨One of the most magical villages 🚗 Little tip! The roads to get to the bottom have very big curves! Make sure you bring an appropriate car! #CapCut #tenerife #tenerife🇮🇨 #tenerifecanaryisland #tenerifefirstexcursions #tenerifelicidad #canarias #canarias🇮🇨 #canaryislands #islas...
@justaliveer
153.3K likes • 2.4M views

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good shoes for navigating rocky spots and boulders. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

There's no shade, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:

🚗 Park Above the Trail

Park on the residential street above; access below is restricted. :car:

⏱️ Allow 40-60 Minutes

The loop hike is short but offers stunning views. :stopwatch:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Wear good shoes for navigating rocky spots and boulders. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

There's no shade, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:

🚗 Park Above the Trail

Park on the residential street above; access below is restricted. :car:

⏱️ Allow 40-60 Minutes

The loop hike is short but offers stunning views. :stopwatch:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail

The trail is manageable for small dogs, but keep them on a leash. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(390 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular, deep sides of Mascarat Gorge and its impressive historic bridges, calling it an accessible mini-adventure. The dramatic cliffs and unique blend of nature and engineering are highlights. Some reviews note temporary closures due to rockfall risk and advise caution.

"Spectacular place with its deep sides, flowering oleander and three bridges overhead. With lots of rocks & boulders to navigate it took about an hour to clamber over, around and back. Absolutely stunning and we extended our trip by crossing the road and following the trail to the beach."

Patricia G

"An incredible and accessible mini-adventure between Altea and Calpe. Mascarat Canyon offers a short but impressive hike through steep cliffs and historic bridges once used for railway and road access.

Trail tips:
• Parking is available above the trail, along the residential street — don’t park below, as access is restricted.
• The loop takes 40–60 minutes at a relaxed pace.
• The trail is easy, doesn’t require any special fitness, and we even walked it with a small dog — no problem at all.
• Wear good shoes (some rocky spots), and bring water — no shade on sunny days.

Highlights:
• Breathtaking views of the bridges stretching above the canyon.
• Walking through narrow stone corridors between dramatic cliffs.
• A unique mix of natural beauty and old engineering marvels."

Julia

"Short hike, but the canyon is stunning. It is temporarily closed part way up, due to the risk of falling rocks, I guess caused by the drilling going on up above on one side. 🤷🏼‍♀️
Still well worth the little walk to see the bridges together. The oldest bridge is the prettiest. We visited at the beginning of August and managed to find a street parking large enough to park our 7.4m motorhome, 5 minutes or so away, up the hill.

Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook for more.intwresting places to visit, or to park a motorhome. We travel full-time, living in our motorhome.

Finding XANADU Official 💜🤟"

Alison Farrow (FindingXANADU)

What People Like

Spectacular gorge views
Historic bridges
Accessible hike

What People Dislike

Temporary closures
Rocky terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mascarat Gorge is located between Altea and Calpe on the Costa Blanca. You can drive to the area and park on the residential street above the gorge. Some visitors have managed to park larger vehicles like motorhomes nearby. Reddit

Yes, parking is available along the residential street above the trail. Avoid parking below, as access is restricted. Reddit

While specific public transport routes directly to the gorge entrance are not widely detailed, it's best to check local bus schedules for Altea or Calpe and consider a short taxi ride if needed.

The most common access is via the trail starting from the residential street above. This allows for easy navigation to the bridges and the start of the gorge. Reddit

One TikTok creator mentioned that the roads to get to the bottom have very big curves and advised bringing an appropriate car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mascarat Gorge is a natural attraction and generally does not require an entrance fee. Access to the hiking trail and viewing the bridges is typically free. Reddit

As a natural gorge, there are no official opening or closing hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

No, there is no admission fee to explore the Mascarat Gorge and its surrounding trails. Reddit

One review mentioned the gorge was temporarily closed part way up due to the risk of falling rocks. It's advisable to check local conditions before your visit. Reddit

While not as common as for larger attractions, local tour operators in Altea or Calpe might offer guided excursions that include the Mascarat Gorge. Inquire locally for options.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The hike is a short, easy loop taking about 40-60 minutes. It involves navigating over and around rocks and boulders, offering spectacular views of the deep gorge and bridges. Reddit

The main attractions are the three historic bridges (masonry, cement, and railway), the dramatic cliff formations, and the unique experience of walking through the narrow canyon. Reddit

Yes, the trail is considered easy and suitable for families, even with small children or dogs, provided they are supervised and wear appropriate footwear. Reddit

While the gorge itself is narrow and rocky, reviews mention nearby beaches accessible from the gorge. The crystal-clear waters near the coast are suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Reddit

Capture the scale by photographing the bridges from below and the dramatic cliff faces. Wide-angle lenses are great for the gorge, while telephoto lenses can highlight details on the bridges. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the Mascarat Gorge itself. You'll need to visit nearby towns like Altea or Calpe for restaurants and cafes. Reddit

Nearby towns offer a range of Spanish cuisine, including fresh seafood, tapas, and traditional Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy local specialties with sea views. Reddit

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the trail to enjoy a packed lunch, provided you clean up thoroughly and take all your trash with you. Reddit

The parking area is along a residential street, so dining options are limited. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit in Altea or Calpe. Reddit

Altea has many charming restaurants, particularly in its old town, offering everything from casual tapas bars to more upscale dining experiences with local ingredients. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic shots are of the three bridges spanning the gorge. Also, capture the dramatic, towering cliffs and the unique rock formations within the canyon. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer shadows and a more dramatic effect on the cliffs. Midday sun can be harsh. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the gorge and bridges. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on rocks and enhance the blue of the sky. Instagram

Be mindful of your footing, especially when navigating rocky areas. Keep your gear secure and avoid leaning too far over edges for a shot. Reddit

Drone regulations vary by location. It's essential to check current Spanish and local drone laws before flying near protected natural areas like Mascarat Gorge. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Mascarat Gorge offers a fantastic, short adventure for families. The trail is considered easy and manageable, even with younger children, as long as they have good footwear and are supervised. The unique landscape of towering cliffs and old bridges provides an exciting backdrop for exploration. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the gorge itself. Reddit

Consider making it a part of a larger coastal day trip. After exploring the gorge, you can head to nearby beaches in Altea or Calpe for some swimming and sandcastle building. This combination of a mild hike and beach time makes for a well-rounded family outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers, the Mascarat Gorge provides a safe and rewarding short hike. The trail is well-defined, and the presence of other visitors, especially during peak times, adds a sense of security. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature and capture some stunning photographs without committing to a strenuous, all-day trek. Reddit

Bring your camera and enjoy the solitude or the chance to chat with fellow explorers. The relatively short duration means you can easily fit it into a day of exploring the Costa Blanca, perhaps combining it with a visit to Altea's old town or a walk along the Calpe promenade. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Mascarat Gorge is an ideal stop for road trippers and day-trippers exploring the Costa Blanca. Its location between Altea and Calpe makes it a perfect, easily accessible detour. The short hike means you won't lose much time from your itinerary, yet you'll gain memorable views and a unique experience. Reddit

Park your vehicle on the residential street above and spend an hour or so exploring the gorge and its bridges. Combine this with a visit to the charming towns of Altea or Calpe, or a relaxing afternoon at a nearby beach, to create a fulfilling day trip. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvels: Bridges of Mascarat Gorge

The Mascarat Gorge is not just a natural wonder but also a testament to human engineering. Three distinct bridges once served vital transportation roles, now standing as historical markers against the dramatic backdrop of the canyon. The oldest, a beautiful masonry bridge, dates back to 1885, showcasing traditional construction techniques. It was later joined by a cement bridge built in 1925 and a railway bridge constructed in 1915, illustrating the evolution of infrastructure in the region. Reddit

These bridges, now largely disused for their original purposes, offer a unique juxtaposition of nature and man-made structures. Visitors can walk beneath them, marveling at their scale and the ingenuity required to build them in such a challenging terrain. The cement bridge, in particular, is notable as it's a popular spot for bungee jumping, adding an element of extreme sport to the historical site. Reddit

For photographers and history enthusiasts, the bridges provide compelling subjects. Their weathered textures and imposing presence against the rugged cliffs create striking visual narratives. Exploring the area around these bridges offers a glimpse into the past and a deeper appreciation for the landscape's transformation over time. Reddit

Navigating the Terrain: What to Expect on the Trail

The hike through Mascarat Gorge is described as an accessible mini-adventure, perfect for those seeking a short but impactful outdoor experience. The trail itself is relatively easy, taking approximately 40 to 60 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace. It's even been walked with small dogs, indicating its manageable nature for most visitors. Reddit

However, the terrain is characterized by numerous rocks and boulders, requiring visitors to clamber over, around, and back. This is why sturdy footwear is highly recommended to ensure stability and comfort. While there's little shade along the path, especially on sunny days, bringing water is crucial to stay hydrated. Reddit

Despite the rocky sections, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the deep gorge, the towering cliffs, and the impressive bridges overhead. The experience is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical engineering, making it a memorable stop for anyone traveling between Altea and Calpe. Reddit

Beyond the Gorge: Coastal Charm and Adventure

The Mascarat Gorge is conveniently located along the stunning Costa Blanca coastline, offering visitors the opportunity to extend their adventure to nearby natural and cultural attractions. Just a short distance from the gorge, you can find pristine beaches and secluded coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. Reddit

For those who enjoy hiking, the area around the gorge offers further trails with panoramic views of the sea and coastline. The nearby towns of Altea and Calpe also provide a charming contrast to the ruggedness of the gorge. Altea, with its picturesque whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, exudes a timeless Spanish charm, while Calpe is famous for the majestic Peñón de Ifach, a prominent rock formation that serves as a symbol of the region. Reddit

Adventure seekers can also find thrills in the vicinity. As mentioned, bungee jumping is available from the cement bridge within the gorge itself. Additionally, exploring the coastal waters by kayak or paddleboard can offer a different perspective of the dramatic cliffs and hidden inlets. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2