Elche Dam
A 17th-century arch dam, the first since Roman times, offering stunning reservoir views and scenic nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter trails, peaceful nature
Elche Dam
Best Time
Quieter trails, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century arch dam, the first since Roman times, offering stunning reservoir views and scenic nature trails.
"Well worth the walk with impressive views of the reservoir overflow and walk around the reservoir itself."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating steep and uneven paths. Good walking shoes or boots are a must!
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
It gets very hot! Plan your visit for cooler months to enjoy the hike comfortably.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Arch Dam
Elche Dam
Marvel at the 17th-century engineering feat, the first arch dam built since Roman times.
+1
Panoramic Reservoir Views
Top of the Dam
Climb the steep steps to the top for breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.
Riverside Nature Trail
Around the Dam
Explore the scenic environmental path with lush riverside forests and informative wildlife boards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Footwear for the Elche Dam
Timing Your Visit to Elche Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating steep and uneven paths. Good walking shoes or boots are a must!
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
It gets very hot! Plan your visit for cooler months to enjoy the hike comfortably.
💧 Check Water Levels
See the dam overflowing after heavy rains for a spectacular sight.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (on leash)
Bring your furry friends along for the walk, but keep them leashed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating steep and uneven paths. Good walking shoes or boots are a must!
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
It gets very hot! Plan your visit for cooler months to enjoy the hike comfortably.
💧 Check Water Levels
See the dam overflowing after heavy rains for a spectacular sight.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (on leash)
Bring your furry friends along for the walk, but keep them leashed.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture stunning aerial views of the dam and reservoir.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Elche Dam for its historical significance and beautiful natural setting, making it an excellent spot for hiking and photography. While the climb to the top is rewarding, it can be challenging for some. The lack of facilities and potential for extreme heat in summer are noted drawbacks. +1
"If you like a bit of a trek this is for you. Its a great place to hike. Dogs allowed on leads. A bit precarious in places. Make sure you have good walking shoes/boots etc on.
When you get to the bottom of the dam you can climb up the steep steps to the top where the hike continues, which is worth it if you are able.
I wouldn't recommend it if you have bad knees/hip though.
There are picnic benches to stop at.
No toilet facilities though."
Pebbles “Lil Doc” White
"Nice walk, but better not go during summer. Can get very hot. Tree blocked the path, so could not make it all the way up."
Raf Troch
"Good place for a walk. Though I guess when it gets a bit busy it will be harder to walk along the small tracks to and up the dam."
Wayne Heafield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Elche Dam is located just a short drive from the city center of Elche. Many visitors access it by car, with parking available near the dam. It's also a popular spot for hiking and cycling routes originating from Elche.
Public transport options directly to the dam are limited. It's often best reached by car or as part of a guided hike or bike tour. Consider checking local bus routes that might get you close, followed by a walk.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around the Elche Dam. There are designated routes and the surrounding natural park is ideal for bike rides.
Absolutely! The Elche Dam is a fantastic day trip from Alicante, offering a refreshing nature escape. It's easily accessible by car and provides a great contrast to the coastal city.
Many visitors enjoy hiking or walking the trails around the dam and reservoir. It's also a great spot for photography and enjoying the natural scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Elche Dam and the surrounding natural area is generally free. You can explore the dam and its trails without any admission fees.
The Elche Dam is an outdoor natural attraction, so it's accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The nature trails around the Elche Dam are part of the natural landscape and do not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the free access to this beautiful area.
Yes, the Elche Dam is a great destination for groups, whether for hiking, educational visits, or simply enjoying nature. Weekdays are recommended for a less crowded experience.
While generally open, be mindful of any temporary closures due to weather conditions or maintenance. Always check local advisories if possible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike the trails, climb to the top of the dam for views, enjoy the riverside forest, and learn about local wildlife from informational boards. It's a great spot for nature lovers.
Climbing to the top involves steep steps and can be challenging for those with knee or hip issues. It's rewarding but requires a moderate level of fitness.
Yes, there are picnic benches available, making it a lovely spot for a packed lunch amidst nature.
The area is home to various wildlife, and informational boards along the trails provide details about the local flora and fauna.
The main dam area and well-maintained paths are generally safe, but caution is advised on steeper sections and near the water. Always supervise children closely.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the dam offers stunning panoramic views. The riverside forest and the dam's unique arch structure are also highly photogenic.
Drone flights have been captured over the Elche Dam, suggesting it's a popular spot for aerial photography. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful scenes, especially with the mist rising from the water or the golden hour glow.
Yes, seeing the dam overflow after heavy rainfall is a spectacular sight and makes for dramatic photographs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb to the top of the dam can be steep, families with older children might find it an exciting challenge. For younger children or those with mobility concerns, enjoying the lower trails and the views from the base is still a rewarding experience. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Experienced hikers can explore further trails in the surrounding natural park, making the Elche Dam a great starting point for longer excursions. Remember to check weather conditions, wear appropriate gear, and carry sufficient supplies, as facilities are minimal. Visiting on a weekday can enhance the experience by offering solitude and a deeper connection with the natural environment.
📸 Photographers
The panoramic views from the top of the dam are spectacular, capturing the vastness of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape, particularly beautiful during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. For those with drones, the aerial perspective of the dam and its setting is unparalleled, providing unique shots of this engineering marvel.
The riverside forest, with its characteristic tamarisk trees, offers opportunities for capturing intimate nature scenes and textures. Don't miss the chance to photograph the dam when it's overflowing after heavy rains – a truly dramatic and photogenic event. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Elche Dam
Built on the Vinalopó River, its unique arch shape embraces a rocky promontory, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of hydraulics and structural integrity. This historical gem played a crucial role in regulating water flow, essential for the agricultural development of the surrounding lands. +1Visitors can appreciate the dam's scale and historical significance by visiting the site. The dam itself stands approximately 23 meters high and 75 meters wide, a testament to the ingenuity of its builders.
The reservoir it creates is a vital water source, and its overflow after significant rainfall can be a spectacular sight, drawing photographers and nature enthusiasts. Beyond its engineering prowess, the Elche Dam is the starting point for a fascinating tourist route. This route often includes an environmental path that spans approximately 8 km, offering stunning views of the river's landscape and a rich riverside forest dominated by tamarisk trees.
This makes the dam not just a historical monument but also a gateway to experiencing the natural beauty of the Elche region. Hiking and Nature at Elche Dam
This trail is dotted with informative boards detailing the local wildlife, making it an educational experience for all ages. For those seeking a more challenging trek, the climb to the top of the dam is highly recommended. It involves navigating steep steps, which can be demanding but rewards visitors with impressive panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding Sierra de Elche.
When planning your hike, consider the season. While beautiful year-round, visiting during the cooler months of spring or autumn is advisable to avoid the intense summer heat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit