PR-CV 4: Banyeres - Molí l'Ombria Loop Trail

Komoot estimates the hiking time for this loop trail to be around 5 hours and 22 minutes. However, this can vary based on your pace, fitness level, and how much time you spend exploring the points of interest along the way.

While some sections are quite gentle, the trail is officially rated as difficult by komoot due to its length of nearly 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) and elevation changes. It requires a certain level of endurance, so it might be challenging for absolute beginners or very young children. Hikers with moderate experience should find it manageable.

The PR-CV 4 is a loop trail that typically starts and ends in Banyeres de Mariola. Specific parking information isn't detailed, but you would generally look for parking within the town or near the official trailhead signs. As a loop, you can often start from various points.

You'll encounter a varied terrain, including wide paths, forest tracks, and narrower footpaths. The route takes you through pine forests, alongside cultivated fields of cereals, almond trees, and olive groves, and significantly, follows the Vinalopó River.

The trail is rich in both natural beauty and industrial heritage. You'll follow the Vinalopó River, passing numerous fountains and springs, including the source of the river itself (Font de la Coveta). Historically, it connects three emblematic old paper mills, with the Molí L'Ombría being a key highlight. You'll also pass near the Cova de Serrella.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. During warmer months, the natural pools at Molí L'Ombría can be a refreshing stop.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it passes through natural areas and cultivated fields, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and respect private property. Be sure to carry water for your pet, especially on longer sections.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the PR-CV 4 trail or to access the Parc Natural de la Serra de Mariola. It's freely accessible to the public, though standard natural park regulations regarding waste, fires, and wildlife should always be observed.

Yes, the trail is known for having numerous fountains and springs along its course, which can be a source of water. The Molí L'Ombría, a former paper mill, now serves as a recreational area with picnic tables and even camping facilities, making it an ideal spot for a break.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Banyeres - MolÍ l'ombria - Banyeres (90% of the route), El Camí IT5TR4 El Camí del Sud: de Dénia a Castelló de la Plana, and various sections of the Camí Vell de Banyeres.

The Molí L'Ombría is not just a historical landmark, being a former paper mill from 1777, but also a fantastic recreational hub. It offers natural pools for cooling off, picnic tables, and even camping facilities, making it a perfect place to rest and enjoy the surroundings, especially on a warm day.