Estels del Sud

The first stage starts with a 5-kilometer walk to the entrance of El Parrizal. To enter the Ruta del Parrizal you have to pay a small fee, but it’s worth it! You will be amazed by waterfalls, crystal clear pools of water, beautiful trees and flowers, and a deep canyon. This is the most popular spot in the national park of Els Ports.

Where tourists turn around at the sign ‘end route,’ you will continue. This is the last time you’ll see (many) people during the trail. Make sure you have your GPX with you because, from this point onward, the blue star way-markers are sometimes faded or gone. Hiking poles are highly recommended for climbing some big rocks in this section. After that, you can expect a lot of dense forests and green landscapes. About 18 kilometers from Beceite, you’ll spot the hut Refugi Font Ferrera in the forest, completely remote. Moíses, the guard of the hut, will provide you with a delicious meal made from local products.

Stage two initially takes you through forested areas along a wide path. As you ascend, the terrain shifts to a mix of earth, small stones, and a lot of pine needles. You will be greeted by a lot of dangling caterpillars. There’s a point where you can summit El Negrell, but we chose to continue our route because of the long day ahead of us. This section alternates with a little climbing on mountain paths and through forests. Stunning views of many mountain tops are peaking through the trees throughout the trail.

Entering a wide area, the scenery transforms with cliff-like edges offering amazing views. If you’re really lucky, you may spot some mountain goats at the edges. After that, you will be treated to some climbs in a forest with some sub-tropical vibes. With fog, it looks a lot like Madeira. After all that climbing, the final kilometers to the hut are quite easy. Refugi Caro is beautifully located in the center of Els Ports. An extensive dinner featuring fresh soup, salads, and local dishes is the perfect end of the day. Plus, Maria is a great host.

When you leave Refugi Caro on the final day, the path is a little bit unclear. Please check your GPX or map. If you spot a path with white houses with big brown doors, you’re headed the right way. You hike through the forest, soon emerging into open areas with striking rock formations. The trail then leads through dense vegetation, where hiking poles will help navigate the ground. Ascending a ridge with charred trees and a steep, gravelly path, the landscape becomes eerily beautiful. The trail continues through a diverse mix of red sand patches and forested areas, offering glimpses of coastal-like scenery and large rock formations, like the well-known Roca Morena.

Descending through winding paths, the trail re-enters the familiar terrain of the natural park, ultimately leading back to this cute historical village of Beceite.

The best time of the year to hike the Estels del Sud is from March through November. Keep in mind you’ll need to be prepared for multiple weather conditions. In the summertime, it can be very hot. Always check the trail conditions and weather forecasts.

Additionally, consider your hiking experience and skill level, as some parts of this trail are challenging. So bring the proper equipment with you, such as solid shoes and hiking poles.

You can reach the starting and finishing point by car. Sometimes you have to pay attention to the signs. Hiking with GPX is highly recommended. It’s possible to switch sometimes to a GR-path if necessary, the paths are doable and the signage is good.

The trail has some challenging parts, so you have to be in good condition and have some hiking experience. Hiking poles, a sun hoody, and sturdy shoes are recommended.