The best kayak route in Denia – COVA TALLADA
By Samuel • Pata Negra Adventure
Without a doubt, the best kayaking route from Dénia is the trip to Cova Tallada.
La Cova Tallada is a cave located between Dénia and Jávea, at sea level and nestled in the cliffs of Cabo de Sant Antoni. It is not of natural origin but was created by human hands. It was once an old quarry for tosca stone or sandstone used in construction. The shapes carved out as these stone blocks were extracted give this place an incredible beauty and grandeur, which is greatly enhanced when you enter through one of its openings in a kayak.
Starting Points in Les Rotes
To start the kayaking route from Dénia, you can choose any of the small coves in the Les Rotes area.
El Trampolí, Punta Negra, or Arenetes (known to locals as Playa del Fresquito) are all great options, depending on how far you want to paddle in your kayak (7 km, 4 km, and 2 km round trip, respectively).
The Gerro Tower and Cala d’Aigua Dolç
As soon as we arrive at the spectacular cliffs of Cap de Sant Antoni, the first thing that catches our eye at the top of the first of these immense stone walls is the Torre del Gerro. Its name comes from its curious shape, which resembles a “gerro” (a jug or pitcher in Valencian). It is a watchtower built in the 16th century to defend against the frequent attacks by Barbary pirates during that era. It also marks the boundary between the municipalities of Dénia and Jávea.
At the foot of the tower, we come across a small, hidden cove. It is called Cala de Aigua Dolç (Freshwater). It is the only nudist beach in Dénia and owes its name to the freshwater springs that flow out through several openings in the cliff walls, mixing with the salt water of the Mediterranean Sea.
Access on foot and capacity limits
As you advance towards Cova Tallada, you will probably see people walking along the path that runs along the edge of the mountain. This trail also leads to the cave. It is a path of medium difficulty due to some somewhat complicated sections, mainly in the access to the Cova Tallada in which there is an area of climbing with the help of a chain. It goes without saying that if you choose this option you should wear appropriate hiking shoes.
If you’re visiting the cave on your own—whether on foot or in your own kayak—you should know that during peak seasons (summer, Holy Week, and some long weekends), there are capacity limits. Therefore, before you go, you must reserve your spots through the Montgó Natural Park website: https://parquesnaturales.gva.es/es/web/pn-el-montgo
Cova Tallada Marine Reserve and Natural Pool
When you arrive at Cova Tallada with your kayak, be careful of a stone breakwater located right in front of the entrance. The water is very shallow in that area, and on a wavy day, you could get a real scare. This breakwater marks the edge of the natural pool that has formed at the cave’s entrance, and it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling.
So don’t forget your mask and snorkel on this short excursion if you want to enjoy the abundant marine life you’ll see. This great biodiversity is due to the fact that we are in the Cap de Sant Antoni Marine Reserve, which was designated in 1994 because of the importance of its seabed.
Inside Cova Tallada
When you paddle your kayak through the stone arch into the cave for the first time, you can’t help but be amazed by this marvel carved out of the cliffside. The shapes and angles of the rock make this a magical place.
It’s worth getting out of the kayak and taking a walk through the various caves you’ll come across.
Important Tips and Notes
Finally, a few small tips and observations:
- Be careful where you leave your kayak. Don’t leave it “parked” in passing areas or other places where it may disturb other visitors.
- Please pick up your trash before you leave.
- Be careful not to run over swimmers when you paddle your kayak back out of the cave.
- If you don’t want to miss any detail of the interior of the cave, don’t forget to bring a flashlight or headlamp, since artificial light is necessary in the innermost part of the cave since it is completely dark.
- Be very careful when getting on and off the boat in the Les Rotes area. If you see the Balearia ferry passing by (especially when it’s returning from the islands), large waves—about one meter high—will reach the shore within ten minutes, and if they catch you right at the water’s edge, you could be in for a nasty surprise. So if you see the ship passing by, stay out of the water, or if you’re in the water, don’t go near the shore until the wave set has passed. Out in deeper water, you won’t even notice those waves.
- If you want to make the most of your visit to Cova Tallada, you can book an organized tour with AVENTURA PATA NEGRA. In addition to the safety we provide as a specialized company, having a guide tell you all about the history and stories of the place will add an extra touch to your experience. Click the link below to book your tour of Cova Tallada with us: Kayak Dénia. Kayak Cova Tallada. Kayak Costa Blanca. Kayak Excursions (aventurapatanegradenia.com)
Enjoy the best experience in Dénia!
Follow these recommendations and get ready to experience one of the most iconic and incredible routes along the entire Costa Blanca, led by expert guides.