Sierra de Aitana, Spain

Experience the dramatic limestone peaks, ridge walks and sun-drenched valleys of Spain's Aitana Massif entirely on your own terms — no group tour required. Based in Guadalest throughout, you'll follow the same traditional footpaths and mule tracks past the limestone needles of Penya Roc, up to summits like Serrella, Puig Campana and Aitana Peak, and down through spectacular gorges to the Mediterranean coast. This self-launched version swaps the guided group for freely available trail maps, GPS routes (Wikiloc and AllTrails both have excellent coverage of the area), and a cosy guesthouse base — saving you well over £1,000 per person versus the Exodus price. All costs are approximate estimates.

Travel Crew

~£590

The Sierra de Aitana sits just a short drive inland from Benidorm's seafront but feels like a completely different Spain — quiet mule tracks, limestone ridges, hilltop castles, and family-run olive groves. This self-launched version of Responsible Travel's escorted walking holiday gives you all the same peaks, panoramas, and cultural detours at a fraction of the price. You'll base yourself in Benimantell village, renting a room at the same El Trestellador Pension the tour uses (or an equivalent guesthouse), and follow the same day-walk circuit independently using free IGN maps, the Wikiloc app, and AllTrails GPX tracks. Transport from Alicante airport uses local ALSA buses and taxis; daily walks are accessed on foot directly from the village. All cost estimates are approximate and per person.

Travel Crew

~£520