How to Get to Serra de la Vila by Car in Villena?
Serra de la Vila is a prominent mountain ridge at an elevation of 774m (2,539ft) above sea level, located in the province of Alicante, Spain. Standing directly above the historic city of Villena, the summit is a well-known landmark in the Alt Vinalopó region.
The ridge is famous for its panoramic views that stretch across the Vinalopó valley, offering a unique perspective of the Castillo de la Atalaya. The summit is occupied by a major communication facility officially known as the Repetidor de Villena. The environment is typical of the semi-arid southeast of Spain, with limestone rocks and low Mediterranean scrub defining the landscape.
| Road facts: Serra de la Vila (Villena) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Villena, Alicante (Spain) |
| Elevation | 774m (2,539ft) |
| Length | 5.6 km (3.47 miles) |
| Average Gradient | 4.48% |
| Surface | Paved / Concrete / Gravel |
What is the road to Serra de la Vila like?
The ascent to the summit is an interesting mix of surfaces. While the road is mostly paved, it features several deteriorated concrete sections and patches of loose gravel. Due to the lack of maintenance and the steepness of certain ramps, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to avoid scraping the underbody. The most challenging aspect, however, is the width; the road is extremely narrow, with very few passing places, making it impossible for two vehicles to cross at once. If you meet another car, one of you will likely have to reverse for a significant distance.
How to get to the Villena repeater by car?
The journey starts from the CV-799 road, located just east of Villena. From the turn-off, the climb spans 5.6 km (3.47 miles) with a total elevation gain of 251 meters. Although the average gradient is 4.48%, this figure is deceptive as the road includes some very steep pitches that require steady momentum. The track winds its way up the southern flank of the mountain, providing spectacular views of the city and the surrounding agricultural plains. It is a popular spot for local hikers and cyclists, so drivers must remain alert at all times, especially on the blind corners.
Pic: JOSE ALPA