The Molinar of Alcoy: A magical journey

The privileged setting of Alcoy, a city surrounded by mountains, along with its rich history, makes the possibilities for hiking or cycling routes very extensive.

The privileged setting of Alcoy, a city surrounded by mountains, along with its rich history, makes the possibilities for hiking or cycling routes very extensive.

El Molinar de Alcoy is one of the most emblematic places in the city, both for its surroundings and its historical relevance.

The Molinar Historical Complex, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, includes a spectacular modernist dome, the source of the Molinar River, along with various industrial buildings, such as factories and mills.

During the Industrial Revolution, the city of Alcoy played a prominent role, thanks to its unique topography and the entrepreneurial spirit of its inhabitants. Factories were established along the riverbanks, employing mills to harness water power. In this way, Alcoy became a pioneering city in the textile and paper industries.

Today, most of the factories along the river are abandoned, but their remains can be discovered along the route through the Molinar de Alcoy. The buildings and hydraulic structures blend with the splendor of nature, creating a unique landscape.

Starting from the town center of Alcoy, reaching El Molinar is very easy, whether on foot, by bicycle, or even by car.

The most common route to El Molinar de Alcoy begins in the city center and ascends to the upper part of town via Sant Nicolau Street, a long climb where modernist buildings stand out. Next, take Molinar Street until you reach a dirt track that runs alongside cultivated fields.

The route can be extended depending on the experience and preferences of those hiking it, linking up with other routes to connect with the Alcoy Greenway and other natural areas.

Before starting the route, it is essential to check the route, its duration, and the weather forecast. Although it is an easy route, rain can make the path muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.

There is a fountain in the area that usually has water, and the route is short, but it is advisable to bring water and avoid the hottest hours of the day, especially if hiking in summer.

Before starting the tour, it is important to keep in mind some practical tips:

Images: Alcoy Tourism

What points of interest are there on the Molinar de Alcoy route? Depending on the chosen itinerary, you can visit different points of interest.

The most notable features in the area itself are the Molinar dome and its fountain, the source of the river of the same name. Built in 1912 by the engineer José Abad Carbonell, it is one of the city’s finest examples of Modernism.

The factories and mills, now disused and covered by nature, are another of the main attractions of the route, transporting the visitor to the times when industrial activity took place on the banks of the rivers.

Currently, part of the Molinar Historic Site is undergoing restoration. The aim is to reclaim these spaces to showcase the importance of the city’s industrial heritage, explaining how the old mills worked, the historical significance of local industry, and its transformation.

Regarding its natural value, due to its privileged location very close to the Font Roja Natural Park, the area is protected, both by the aquifer and by its native flora and fauna.

Check the schedule of guided tours in Alcoy, as they often organize outings where expert guides explain the relevance of the area and even show the interior of the main building of the complex.

If you want to enjoy the Molinar route as a family or as a couple, the first step is to plan your visit to Alcoy, including where to eat in Alcoy or looking for accommodation in Alcoy that suits your needs.

This route is simple and short, making it ideal as a family outing, and also for a couple’s stroll to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

At Hostal Savoy, you’ll find facilities suitable for both families and couples, as well as everything you need for a comfortable stay if you’re traveling by bicycle. In our restaurant, you can savor the city’s delicious cuisine, featuring dishes like pericana, olleta, and stuffed peppers with rice, known as bajoques farcides.