Alcoy sits among mountains on every side, and every road out of it is a good one. To the north-west lies the Sierra de Mariola, a natural park of aromatic herbs, whose thyme, rosemary and mountain tea are used in the local liqueur. To the south is Aitana, and to the east the long ridge of the Serra de Penàguila. The Barranc de la Sarga, where the painted shelters lie, cuts through the hills a few kilometres from the town, and its rock art has been studied since the early twentieth century.
The paintings at La Sarga are among the best known in the region, and include both Levantine and schematic styles. Archaeologists consider them an important site for understanding how different painting traditions overlapped in this part of Spain. Abric III is one of several shelters in the ravine, and the whole group is part of the UNESCO listing of 1998. Details of access change, so ask at the tourist office in Alcoy or look for local information boards.
The best way to enjoy the country is to ride a loop. Leave Alcoy by the road toward the Font Roja natural park, where an enormous holm oak forest clings to the northern slopes of the mountain and gives the air a cool, damp smell. Continue through the villages of Penàguila and Benifallim, then loop back past Banyeres de Mariola, with its Moorish castle. The roads are a mix of broad, fast curves and tight bends, with surfaces that range from smooth to rough. Spring and autumn are beautiful, with clear air and good light.
Alcoy has sixty thousand people, and you will find fuel, pharmacies and plenty of cafés. The town is famous for its mountain liqueur, called Herbero, and for almond sweets. A coffee in a café in the main square, watching the town go about its business, is a good way to finish the day.
Take water if you plan to walk, and remember that conditions in the ravine can be hot and dry.