Xaló, Barranc del Cau

This beautiful circular route will allow you to discover the magnificent Barranc del Cau, a hidden gem in the municipality of Xaló.

Xaló, Barranc del Cau • 14/02/2025 15:25

This hike can be done at any time of the year, but I recommend going in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset in the Barranc.

You start this hike by parking your car in a small spot along a quiet road in Lliber. In front of you, a paved road climbs quite steeply and leads to a water reservoir a little further up.

Follow this road until it curves to the left, where you’ll find a path branching off to the right. This is where the trail truly begins.

This trail is rarely used and is full of holm oaks with prickly leaves, so I recommend covering your calves.

You pass through a small forest and soon find yourself nestled between two mountains, on a small path that climbs parallel to the dry riverbed.

Behind you, the last views of the valley fade away, while on either side, the two mountain slopes are omnipresent. A little further ahead, to your right and below, you’ll see the entrance to the small Cova de Xamel.

Continue along this path, following the trail carefully, as it sometimes seems to branch off in different directions.

Llíber, Cova de Xamel • 14/02/2025 14:38

In less than an hour, you’ll reach the highest point of this hike. You’ve completed the least pleasant part—you’ve arrived at Marnes!

Llíber, Marnes • 14/02/2025 14:53

Now, you’ll experience the calm and beauty of Marnes, with landscapes that seem frozen in time. You’ll walk along the only road in Marnes, which is usually deserted. To your left, you’ll see an old well, still used by locals.

To your right, you can already glimpse the foothills of the Barranc del Cau. Then comes the long-awaited moment: you’ll take a small descending path that leads you straight into the tranquil and splendid gorges of the Barranc.

If you go in the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy the magnificent shadows that paint each side of the rocky walls.

You’ll walk along this path, between impressive cliffs, where only the occasional bird song breaks the silence of this place.

Xaló, Barranc del Cau • 14/02/2025 16:44

After passing some small hydraulic structures, you’ll begin the final descent—a very steep but short section that takes you down to the riverbed.

Xaló, Barranc del Cau • 14/02/2025 15:25

From there, you’ll walk and occasionally rise above the bottom of the barranc, always with beautiful views. This part of the hike takes place in a more shaded forest.

Xaló, Barranc del Cau • 16/02/2025 16:28

You’ll cross a carob tree field before reaching a nice road that leads to the water reservoir where you started.

Follow this road, and just after a small house, turn right to take a small path. This path opens up again onto a road and then another trail that rises slightly above the valley, offering you beautiful views.

Finally, you’ll reach your car and conclude this magnificent hike!