The Del Humo Cave in the Sierra de Fontcalent

The starting point for this hike is at a place called “Hondo del Rebolledo”. To get to this starting point by car, see the “Practical Information” section below.

For your information, the rating established by the French Hiking Federation (FFR) is as follows: IBP = 22, length = 4.09 kilometres and elevation gain = 122 metres. (These figures may differ from those given by Visorando; in this case, always use the higher figures to get an idea of the hike’s difficulty).

(S/E) From the car park, head almost directly opposite towards the wide path blocked by a chain between two white posts to prevent cars from passing. Then continue straight on along this path. This path is the Camino del Sureste or the Camino de la Lana. The path is very wide and you simply need to follow it straight on and enjoy the views of Mount Fontcalent.

(1) Pass on the right and then continue straight on.

(2) Note the two cairns at the side of the path, turn right, pass between the two cairns and follow the path. You will arrive at the Grotte del Humo.

(3) Retrace your steps and follow the path back the way you came to return to the car park (S/E).

Driving directions to the start of the hike:
From the A31 motorway, take exit 230 El Rebolledo (sur) / La Alcoraya and immediately turn right towards La Alcoraya. Then, do not take the track leading off to the right; instead, at the junction, turn right. Then take the road to the right marked "Vuelta a la Sierra de Fontcalent por el manential"; you will pass an olive grove and, at the bend to the left, park on the left on the flat ground.
For your information, the journey by car from Alicante is approximately 11 kilometres.

The Cova del Fum (Cave of Smoke in Valencian) is situated at an altitude of approximately 240 metres. It is about 6 metres deep, 5 metres wide and 3 metres high.

It is the oldest prehistoric site in Alicante. During excavations, necklaces and a bone of a very distinctive shape with engravings were discovered there. These objects can be seen at the Marq (the Archaeological Museum of Alicante). These remains date back to 3000 BC.

In fact, the cave was rediscovered by treasure hunters in the 19th century, but they found only bones and skulls. It is now clear that a great deal of important information was lost.

It was in 1963 that Jaime Carbonell rediscovered this cave and explored it in a more professional manner.