In the Vall de Gallinera, a long, narrow valley in the mountains of northern Alicante, the Benirrama shelter is one of a cluster of rock art sites, part of the Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin World Heritage listing. The valley is particularly rich in macro-schematic art, a distinctive style found only in this region, with large, abstract human figures and symbols painted in red, and the nearby Pla de Petracos is the most famous site of this style. Benirrama itself is also the name of a ruined Moorish castle on a hill above the valley.
The Vall de Gallinera is famous for its cherries, and in spring the valley is white with blossom, while in early summer the trees are heavy with fruit. The villages are small and quiet, and the landscape is a mix of terraced fields, olive groves and rocky mountains. The area was home to Moorish communities until their expulsion in 1609, and the ruined castles and abandoned villages are reminders of their presence. To the east, the Marjal de Pego-Oliva is a coastal wetland, home to many birds.
The roads through the Vall de Gallinera and the neighbouring valleys are a joy for riders: narrow, winding and quiet, with endless curves and views. The road from Pego through the valley and over the mountains to Planes is a classic, and the Coll de Rates, a short climb further south, is famous among cyclists. Cyclists love these climbs too, so expect lycra round blind corners, and a dusting of gravel after storms. February, when the almond trees blossom, is magical.
Pego, seven kilometres away, is a market town with fuel, shops and restaurants, and the villages of the valley have small bars and restaurants. The cherry season, from May to June, brings markets and festivals, and the fruit is sold at stalls along the road. Try the rice dishes of the region, such as arroz al horno, baked rice with sausages, chickpeas and potatoes, and the local olive oil. The Pla de Petracos shelter is well signposted and easy to reach, with an information panel explaining the paintings.