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Alfaz del Pi celebrates opening of Camino de Santiago hiking route
Twelve years after requesting official recognition, the town marks the occasion with a 15km trek to Benidorm
Alfaz del Pi has celebrated the official opening of its hiking trail to Santiago de Compostela, 12 years after first applying to be recognised as the starting point for the central branch of the Southeastern Camino de Santiago. The event brought together around 150 participants, who completed the 15-kilometre route from Alfaz del Pi to Benidorm in a spirit of adventure and community. Given the enthusiastic response, organisers are already planning another walk before the end of the year.The expedition was organised by Alfaz del Pi’s local council in collaboration with the Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. Each participant received an official booklet with the route clearly mapped out and stamped, highlighting the unique beauty of this lesser-known pilgrimage path. The town marks the first stage of a nine-part journey that passes through Benidorm, Finestrat, Relleu, Torremanzanas, Ibi, Onil, Biar and Villena.
Rocío Guijarro, Councillor for Citizen Participation, expressed her gratitude to José Ángel García, the driving force behind this initiative, for his dedication in consolidating the route. The event also saw the involvement of the Councillors for Sports, Youth, and Cultural Heritage, demonstrating the town’s commitment to promoting the Camino.
José Ángel García, a well-known figure in the pilgrim community with 19 Camino routes and nearly 6,000 kilometres under his belt, was on hand to share his expertise. He highlighted the importance of raising awareness about this path, as many pilgrims are still unaware of its existence despite its official opening 12 years ago.
The first stage of the Alfaz del Pi-Benidorm route offers a scenic and accessible journey, beginning in the heart of Alfaz del Pi before winding through the heights of Albir, passing fields and orchards, and reaching the beach. The final stretch leads walkers through the lower part of the Serra Gelada Park before concluding at San Jaime Church in Benidorm.
With strong local support and growing interest from walkers and pilgrims, this new chapter in Alfaz del Pi’s connection to the Camino de Santiago looks set to continue.
Images: Ayuntamiento de L'Alfás de Pi
