Algar waterfalls in Alicante province

The Algar waterfalls (Fuentes del Algar) are one of the most beautiful places in the province of Alicante. This natural park in the mountains consists of a series of cascading waterfalls and natural rock pools.

The complex is located around an hour's drive from Alicante and just 27 minutes from Guadalest, so you can combine your visit with a trip to the medieval village with its castle perched on top of a rocky outcrop.

The Algar waterfalls are particularly popular in summer. The mountain water is wonderfully refreshing in the heat, while the natural ledges you can jump from turn swimming into a real adventure that children absolutely love.

Visiting the natural park

The Algar waterfalls site has walking paths, steps and viewpoints that allow you to follow the river and see the waterfalls from different angles. The route is around 1.5 km long in total. Along the way, you'll come across small cascades, natural pools and picturesque spots among the rocks and greenery.

Walking the entire route takes around 45 minutes, but if you plan to take photos, relax by the water or go for a swim, it's best to allow a few hours for your visit. You can take your time exploring the whole site or stop at the places you like best.

Swimming at the Algar waterfalls

The main summer attraction is the chance to swim in the natural pools of the Algar River. Several pools with small waterfalls and rocky ledges are located along the route, and you can even jump from some of them into the cool water. There are spots for a peaceful swim as well as areas for a more active experience.

The river water comes from the mountains and is quite cold even in summer, so your first dip may come as a bit of a shock. However, on a hot day, swimming here is a real pleasure. The riverbed is mostly rocky, with sharp stones in some places, so make sure you bring special water shoes.

During the peak season, it's best to arrive when the park opens. In the morning, the water is usually clearer, there's still a chance of finding a space by the natural pools, and you can enjoy a peaceful swim. By lunchtime, however, visitor numbers increase considerably, and you can no longer count on a quiet, secluded break.

Picnics and food in the park

If you're planning to spend a few hours by the waterfalls, you can bring some food with you and enjoy a little picnic. There is a designated picnic area at the Les Fonts d'Algar site, located in the upper part of the park. It's a convenient option for families with children and anyone who wants to spend practically the whole day here.

In July and August, special rules apply: visitors bringing their own food must enter through a separate Entrance No. 2 (Entrada 2 + Picnic), located next to the picnic area. Free lockers are available for storing food. Eating your own food in the swimming area is not permitted, so it's best to plan your snack break separately from your time by the water.

If you don't want to bring food with you, there are cafés and restaurants nearby where you can have lunch after your walk.

Opening hours and admission prices

The Algar waterfalls can be visited all year round, although opening hours vary depending on the season. In July and August, visits are organised in three time slots: from 9:00 to 13:00, from 13:00 to 16:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00. If you'd like to explore the park at your own pace, go for a swim and relax by the water, choose the first morning slot.

Ticket prices depend on the time of year and the age of the visitor. Here are the main rates:

• Adults: €8 in the high season (15 June – 15 October) and €6 in the low season (16 October – 14 June).
• Children aged 4 to 10: €3.
• Children under 4: free.
• Students: €7 in the high season and €5 in the low season.
• Pensioners aged over 65: €6 in the high season and €5 in the low season.
• People with disabilities: free.

Tickets can be bought directly at the ticket office before your visit, or in advance on the official Les Fonts d'Algar website. Online bookings close 24 hours before the visit date, so it's best to arrange your tickets in advance during the peak season. One small point for families: children under 16 must visit the park accompanied by an adult, and you need to bring proof of eligibility to qualify for discounted rates.

Where to park at the Algar waterfalls

Parking is a particularly important consideration during the peak season, when visitor numbers increase considerably and finding a suitable place to leave your car can become difficult.

There is a free car park next to the Tourist Info Balcó d'Algar tourist information point. It's around 700 metres from the entrance to the natural park, so you'll have to walk a little. However, it's a good option if you arrive in the morning and don't want to look for a space in the busier car parks.

Most visitors, though, prefer the more convenient option and continue driving closer to the entrance. There are several paid car parks along the road, where attendants actively invite drivers to park. The price is usually around €5 per day.

It's still worth driving a little further up the road, though. There's another paid car park there, but it's more spacious and better located in relation to the picnic area.

Take a little time to choose your parking spot, and then you can set off without a worry to enjoy the waterfalls, cool water and beautiful mountain scenery around the Algar waterfalls!