The Montgó mountain rises some 753 meters (2,470 feet) above sea level and divides the Mediterranean port towns of Jávea and Denia in the Alicante Province. It is the final spur of the Cordillera Prebética Mountain Range and joins with the Cap de San Antonio form the most easterly point of the Iberian peninsula.
The mountain is renowned for its rock formations, cliffs, caves and natural harbours. From the Jávea side Montgó is often said to resemble the head and trunk of an elephant, although the Montgó name has no known correlation.
The Montgó Nature Reserve encompasses some 2150 hectares (5312 acres) around the mountain. It includes a coastal section that covers over 3 kilometres. The Reserve contains important archaeological finds such as cave paintings, Phonetician pottery and the remains of early Iberian settlements. Due to the flora, fauna and unique ecosystem the park was declared an officially protected nature reserve in 1987. The reserve runs almost parallel to the coastline, joining the coast via a flat area known as ‘Les Planes’ terminating at Cap de San Antonio.
Some of the most desirable properties are located on the lower south facing slopes. Enjoying year long sunshine, sea vies and vistas across the valley floor towards the mountains of the Sierra Bernia.
The lower slopes are lightly wooded and in the summer the warm pine scented air is alive with the chirping of cicadas. There is a thriving local community served by a small supermarket which bakes its own bread.
The Montgó is known for its unique micro climate. Even on clear days there are times when the peak is shrouded in mist and cloud. The convection of warm moist air from the valley floor and lower slopes precipitates and helps keep the upper slopes green even during times of drought.
The area is protected by law from some of the excess of the construction boom in coastal Spain. There are no high rise buildings and urban density is strictly regulated, especially on the Jávea side.
You can learn more about the Montgó here:
