Excursion to Cova Tallada in Denia: Complete guide with route and alternatives

The Cova Tallada is one of the most spectacular spots along the Alicante coastline. Located within the Montgó Natural Park, this sea cave is a perfect blend of history and nature. Once a quarry for tosca stone, today it’s a popular destination for hikers, adventurers and sea lovers alike. With its crystal-clear waters and striking rock formations, it’s a sight well worth seeing if you’re in the area.

If you’re looking for a short and easy excursion that combines hiking, history and stunning views, the Cova Tallada is a fantastic choice. It’s an ideal plan if you’re spending the day at one of the nearby coves, such as Les Arenetes or Cala del Aigua Dolç.

In this guide you’ll find out how to get there, what you need to know before visiting, practical tips, and an alternative route to make the most of your experience.

The Cave: History and Curiosities

The Cova Tallada is not only a marvel of nature but also a place with a fascinating history dating back centuries, when the cave was used as a quarry by the Moors to extract tosca stone – a type of limestone used in the construction of buildings and monuments. The marks left by the extraction process are still visible on the cave walls, creating a maze of grooves and passages that add a touch of mystery to the site. The tosca stone taken from Cova Tallada was used to build some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the Castle of Dénia as well as several churches and stately homes.

It is said that King Philip III visited the cave in 1599; there’s an inscription on the rock that confirms it, although it’s not easy to spot.

A protected natural environment – the Cova Tallada is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts, home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. The cave and its surroundings host numerous species that have found a perfect refuge in this unique environment.
The crystal-clear waters around the cave are teeming with marine life including fish, octopuses, starfish and sea urchins. This protected area provides a safe habitat for these species to live and reproduce. For snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, exploring the underwater world of the Cova Tallada is an unforgettable experience, offering a close-up look at these fascinating creatures in their natural setting. The area is also home to a variety of seabirds such as gulls and cormorants, which can often be seen feeding nearby.

Where is the Cova Tallada and how to get there?

Nestled along the impressive coastline of the Cabo de San Antonio Nature Reserve, between dramatic cliffs, lies the Cova Tallada. This stretch of coast sits between Dénia and Jávea. Although the cave itself belongs to the municipality of Jávea, the easiest access is from the Les Rotes (Dénia) area. From there, a path leads you directly to the cave, though many people also reach it by sea, kayaking or by small boat.

How to get to the start of the trail by car

1. Head towards Dénia and follow the signs for Les Rotes. You’ll need to drive to the very end of the Barranc del Monyo road.
2. Park around Carrer Vía Láctea or nearby streets – it’s the closest area to the start of the path.
3. From there, follow the path towards the Montgó Natural Park, where the hiking trail begins.

🚨 Important: During high season (from Easter to October), access is regulated and you’ll need to apply for a permit in advance online. In winter, entry is free. If you’re driving during the high season when access to the end of Les Rotes is restricted, it’s best to park at the nearby free car park.

Route Description: Hiking to the Cova Tallada

🚶‍♂️ Distance: 3 km (round trip) ⏳ Duration: 40 min one way 🔺 Difficulty: Moderate

The adventure begins at the park’s control hut. From here, the trail winds through typical Mediterranean vegetation, with pine trees, mastic shrubs and dwarf palms. Some parts of the area are still regenerating after a fire, but the route remains absolutely stunning.

The path is rocky and can be slippery in some sections. To make the descent easier, there are chains anchored to the rock, which help a lot in the trickier parts.

👉 My experience: The first part of the hike is easy, but once you reach the sign marking the start of the descent, things get more technical. There’s a rope installed to help you, as the humidity makes the stones quite slippery. Take your time and go down carefully!

After this technical stretch, you’ll finally reach the entrance to the Cova Tallada — an impressive cave carved between the cliffs and the sea.

Access Permit and Booking Requirement

One of the most common questions is: how much does it cost to visit the Cova Tallada?

The good news is that there’s no entrance fee to visit the cave, but a prior booking is mandatory during the high season. This must be done through the official website of the Generalitat Valenciana, as part of the environmental protection measures established in the resolution of 1 March 2022. Although it may seem like a formality, it’s essential to prevent overcrowding and preserve this unique natural site.

High season (Easter – October):

• A booking is required to control visitor numbers. Access is regulated from 12 April to 5 May (both included) and from 15 June to 15 October (both included).
• The permit is free and can be obtained online via the Natural Park’s official website.

Low season (October – Easter):

• No booking is required, but it’s still important to respect the park’s rules and regulations.

🔹 Tip: If you want to enjoy the Cova Tallada with fewer people around, visit in winter or on weekdays during spring and autumn.

Exploring the Cova Tallada: What to See and Do

Inside the cave, the view is spectacular. The rock formations of the Cova Tallada are the result of both geological processes and human activity during its time as a quarry. The waves, wind, and rain have worked together over centuries to carve this fascinating natural space. The cave sits at sea level, allowing crystal-clear waters to flow in and out with the tides, adding a dynamic touch to the atmosphere. This constant interaction between rock and sea has created a truly unique setting that never fails to impress visitors.
There are several areas to explore and natural pools with clear waters. Bringing snorkelling gear is highly recommended in summer, as the underwater views are spectacular.

🔹 Main chamber: The large central hall of the cave has an impressive entrance with direct views of the sea.
🔹 Natural pool: On the right-hand side of the entrance, there’s a small pool around 60 cm deep — perfect for cooling off.
🔹 Snorkelling and diving: The water here is incredibly clear, with plenty of marine life to admire.

👉 My experience: The most striking thing is the play of light and shadow inside the cave. On sunny days, sunlight filters through and reflects on the water, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Alternative Return: Hike up to Torre del Gerro

If you want to enjoy even more breathtaking views, you can return via the trail that leads up to the Torre del Gerro, an old watchtower offering spectacular panoramic views.

How to take this alternative route:

• Instead of returning along the same path, follow the trail that climbs up to Torre del Gerro.
• From there, the views of the Mediterranean Sea and the cliffs are unbeatable.

👉 My experience: I highly recommend this option. From Torre del Gerro, the scenery is absolutely stunning, with the sea on one side and the silhouette of Mount Montgó on the other. Plus, taking a different route back makes the hike more varied and enjoyable.

Tips and Recommendations for the Excursion

Visiting Cova Tallada can be an unforgettable experience if you take some precautions and follow a few practical tips.

✅ Wear proper footwear: Some areas are slippery, so hiking shoes are the best choice.
✅ Avoid the hottest hours: In summer, start early or go in the evening.
✅ Bring water and some snacks: There are no fountains along the route.
✅ Don’t forget a torch: There are dark areas inside the cave.
✅ Respect the environment: It’s a protected area, so don’t leave rubbish or remove stones.

Alternatives: Kayak and Other Ways to Get There

If you prefer a different kind of adventure, you can also reach the cave by kayak from Les Rotes (Denia) or Jávea.

Kayak from Les Rotes:

• Departure from Les Arenetes Beach.
• Approximately 30 minutes of paddling to reach the cave.
• Perfect for snorkelling within the marine reserve.

Organised excursions:

• Several companies offer guided kayak or paddle surf tours.
• Ideal for those who prefer not to walk the trail.

The best time to visit Cova Tallada largely depends on your preferences and what you’re hoping to get out of the experience. Generally speaking, the summer season (from June to September) is the most popular, as the weather is warm and sea conditions are ideal for snorkelling and other water activities. During these months, the cave receives a high number of visitors, so it’s important to get the required permit and arrive early to avoid the crowds.

If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, consider visiting Cova Tallada in spring or autumn. The weather is still pleasant, temperatures are milder, and hiking is more comfortable. Plus, local flora and fauna are in full bloom, offering great opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Winter can also be an interesting option for the more adventurous, although weather conditions are less predictable and access may be trickier due to high tides or rough seas. However, if the weather allows, the cave provides the perfect setting for those seeking a more solitary experience.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit Cova Tallada, the key is to be prepared and to respect the natural environment to ensure a safe and rewarding adventure.

Did you find this guide useful? Share it so more people can discover the magic of Cova Tallada!

Related articles:

Discovering the Rotas Promenade in Dénia

Talking about the Rotas Promenade in Dénia means talking about one of the most spectacular coastal walks on the Alicante …

Hike to the Torre del Gerro in Dénia: Stunning Views Along the Trail

If you’re looking for an easy, short hike with spectacular views in Dénia, the Torre del Gerro is a perfect …