The spring known as Font de la Mata received this name because above the spring there are two protected mastic trees. These gigantic, monumental plants are perhaps the oldest and most spectacular mastic trees in the entire Iberian Peninsula.

The route begins in the park known locally as Parc del Raval, near the church of Sant Miquel. The park is a kind of promenade which goes parallel to the River Xaló, where you can find information panels for the trails that run along the Seldetes path from Gata and Benissa.

After crossing the river, continue walking along dirt tracks until you reach Mas de les Mallades, near to the Font de la Mata spring.

After passing by Casa de la Mata, take the Barranc de Canela path until the border between the municipalities of Gata de Gorgos and Benissa, where there is an old olive mill in ruins. In front of it you can see a stone cistern that was built at the end of the 19th century.

A few metres before reaching this oil mill, take the path that leads you to the highest point of the route, which is the peak of Serrellars. From here, you can enjoy some beautiful views of Montgó, the mountain ranges known as Serra de Segària and Serra de Bèrnia, and the massive limestone outcrop called Penyal d'Ifac, among others.

After admiring these views, you can begin the descent along the sunny side of the mountain, following the path until you reach the crossroads where the PR-CV 388 deviates towards Benissa.

From this point, the path turns northwards and goes down near the ravine known as Barranc del Pelaire while going back towards Gata, whereupon you cross the river once more so as to reach the starting point again.

PLACES OF INTEREST

• Parc del Raval.
• Mas de les Mallades.
• Antiga Almàssera.
• Cim dels Serrellars.
• Església de Sant Miquel Arcángel.