In the heart of the Bajo Segura region, in the southernmost part of the province of Alicante, lies Pilar de la Horadada, a town that has successfully blended Mediterranean tradition with a strong commitment to well-being, sports, and respect for the environment. Among its many attractions, the Senda del Pilar al Mar (Pilar to the Sea Trail) stands out, an urban route that connects the town center with the coast, seamlessly linking the daily life of the town with the magnificent Mediterranean Sea.
At Creativity Build, we want to introduce you to this simple and extremely pleasant walk, suitable for all ages and physical conditions, so you can discover one of the many options you have to enjoy this wonderful area you have chosen to live in.
The Pilar to the Sea Trail is a route of approximately 3 kilometers that connects the town center of Pilar de la Horadada with Las Villas-Higuericas beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area for its cleanliness, calm waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. This trail follows the course of the town’s dry riverbed, a green corridor that guides visitors from the heart of the town to the seashore.
What sets this route apart is its multifunctional and sustainable nature. The path has been designed to be enjoyed on foot, by bicycle, or even on skates, making it a perfect space for both sports enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing stroll outdoors. Along the way, you’ll find rest areas, viewpoints, and landscaped spaces that invite you to pause, observe, and savor the tranquility this special walk offers.
One of the most iconic spots along the route is the “Bridge of the Kiss,” located on the northern end of the promenade. This unique structure, recognized by the International Federation of Concrete as one of the best in the world in its category, has become a symbol of contemporary local architecture. Its modern silhouette, especially at sunset, offers a romantic scene that invites photographs and romantic encounters.
As you walk along the path, the urban landscape gives way to the salty scent of the sea. The sound of traffic fades, replaced by birdsong and the murmur of the water. At the end of the route, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular view of the Mediterranean and Las Villas-Higuericas beach, one of the most valuable natural areas on the Pilar de la Frontera coastline.
Las Villas-Higuericas Beach is a wonderful and expansive stretch (1,405 m) of fine, golden, natural sand. It offers Blue Flag services, beach surveillance, lifeguards, accessible areas for people with reduced mobility, and a children’s play area both on the sand and in the water, making it a perfect destination for families—even the youngest children enjoy exploring the rocky area with their buckets, pretending to be little crab fishermen. The boardwalk lined with floating wooden beams and palm trees is popular for walking and cycling at any time of day, offering unbeatable views of the coastline. It is also an excellent spot for diving thanks to its Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, which provide refuge for a wide variety of marine life. The most distinctive feature of this beach is its dune formation, the result of sand accumulation carried by sea breezes. About three decades ago, the dunes reached heights of up to five meters, and today they are undergoing an environmental regeneration process aimed at restoring their former splendor. This restoration work has allowed for the recovery of part of the ecosystem and has raised awareness among visitors about the importance of its conservation.
From this point begins the Sardinero promenade, a pleasant coastal walk that culminates at Los Jesuitas beach, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings and the charm of the Pilar de la Horadada coastline. This promenade invites you to continue walking along the sea, breathing in the breeze and enjoying a seemingly endless horizon.
Beyond its recreational value, the Pilar to the Sea Trail represents the municipality’s commitment to sustainable mobility and urban integration with the natural environment. This project has transformed the riverbank into a vibrant green corridor, promoting healthy habits and the use of non-motorized transportation. Furthermore, it has become a venue for sporting activities, walks, and cultural events throughout the year.
