The Montgó dominates the coast between Dénia and Xàbia, a massive limestone mountain rising to 753 metres straight from the sea, its profile said to resemble a sleeping elephant. The Cova del Mig Dia, the cave of midday, is in the flanks of the Montgó, one of several caves and shelters on the mountain, some with traces of prehistoric occupation and rock art. The Montgó is a natural park, with paths leading through scrub and pine to caves, viewpoints and the summit.
The mountain is a refuge for plants and wildlife in a coastline heavily developed for tourism. The Cap de Sant Antoni, at its eastern end, is a marine reserve, with cliffs dropping into clear water. Dénia, on the northern side, has a castle on a hill above the port, from which ferries sail to the Balearic Islands. Xàbia, to the south, has a historic centre and a beautiful bay. Both towns are popular with foreign residents and tourists, and the coast between them is lined with villas.
The riding around the Montgó is short but scenic. The road from Dénia to Xàbia passes around the western side of the mountain, and the road to the Cap de Sant Antoni lighthouse offers views over the bay of Xàbia and the cliffs. The coastal road south of Dénia, to Les Rotes, is narrow and winding, with views of rocky coves. Traffic can be heavy in summer, especially in the towns. Inland, the mountains of the Marina Alta, around the valleys of Laguar and Gallinera, offer some of the best riding in the region, with tight bends and spectacular views.
Dénia and Xàbia are both towns of over thirty thousand, with fuel, shops and restaurants. Dénia is famous for its red prawns, the gamba roja, considered among the best in Spain, and both towns have excellent seafood restaurants. Gata de Gorgos, nearby, is known for its basketry and crafts. A walk on the Montgó in the early morning, before the heat, gives views over the coast and, on very clear days, all the way to Ibiza.