If you came here in February, you would find the slopes above Castell de Castells covered in almond blossom, white and pale pink against the grey rock. In April, the cherry trees follow. By June, the almonds and the first cherries are being harvested, the heat settles in, and the shelters in the ravine give welcome shade. By October, the first rains return, the air clears, and the whole valley looks newly washed. The shelter at Barranc de la Fita, Abric V, lies about three kilometres from the village and is a good excuse to see the valley in whichever season you choose.
It carries painted figures in the Levantine tradition, protected by UNESCO as part of the rock art of the Mediterranean basin in Spain. The paintings are small and faded, and are best seen in the low, slanting light of early morning or late afternoon, when the shadows bring out the colours. Along the same ravine, the ride passes a second site on the way. The Barranc de la Fita is a deep, narrow cut, and the walls of the gorge are grey and ochre, with ledges where goats can be seen climbing.
The mountains of the Marina Alta have a character all their own. They are steep and compact, with the sea always somewhere behind, and the villages are very small and quiet, many with fewer than five hundred inhabitants. The Serrella, the long ridge to the north, and the Sierra de Aitana, behind, keep the valleys sheltered, and the climate is mild in winter and hot, but not humid, in summer.
The roads here are among the best small-bike routes in Alicante province. They are narrow and twisty, with a wonderful variety of bends, and they rarely see heavy traffic. Surfaces are mostly good, but gravel gathers in the corners, and rocks occasionally fall from the cuttings. Cyclists are common, so be careful on blind curves.
Castell de Castells and Benimantell have only a few hundred people, so fuel is a matter for the coast, at Pego or Callosa d'en Sarrià. Vall d'Ebo, farther on, is tiny and silent. Carry water, and wear sturdy shoes for the walk.