Discovering La Font Salada

As the sun slowly pushes the temperature up in the valley, we leave Pego behind us. We head towards the vast, flat landscape of the Marjal de Pego-Oliva, in search of a place where the water is always the same pleasant temperature. We are on our way to one of the most remarkable hidden gems of the Costa Blanca.

While riding along the narrow paths, we notice that our trusty iPhone maps are not always e-bike friendly. At one point, Google even tries to send us into a dry creek. That does not feel right; although the barranco is bone-dry, the loose stones do not seem ideal for our brand-new Forza e-bikes.

Salt and minerals

La Font Salada, also known as the Brollador, lies hidden in the Marjal de Pego-Oliva Nature Park. The spring stands out immediately due to its crystal-clear water, but what makes this place truly unique is the constant temperature of about 21 degrees Celsius. It offers wonderful warmth in winter and the perfect cooling off in summer.

The name ‘Salada’ is not chosen by chance: the water has a slightly salty taste and is packed with sulphur and minerals. For centuries, locals have attributed healing properties to the spring, especially for the skin. When you step into the natural pool, you immediately feel the soft, almost silky texture of the water.

A dip in the Marjal

The spring forms a natural pool where you can swim safely. It is an oasis of calm in an area otherwise dominated by reed beds and rice fields—a true paradise for birds, birdwatchers, and hikers.

We first came here a few years ago and were hooked immediately. Back then, it was wonderfully quiet, and we easily found a parking spot. Nowadays, things are different; La Font Salada has become a popular stop for active tourists.

We also enjoy making a ‘loop to the spring’ from Pego. It is a round trip of about thirty kilometres, which we traditionally finish with a cortado and a tostada on the terrace by the spring.

Cycling Spanish guides

On the way back, we get lost for a moment. We are not yet familiar with the area around Pego and want to avoid the busy main roads at all costs. While we are hunched over our screens peering at the map, two Spanish cyclists suddenly stop.

“Where do you need to go?” they ask in fluent English. When we explain that we are looking for an alternative route to Pego, they advise against our initial plan immediately. “You will end up on the busy N332. Follow us.” 

Without hesitation, they lead us through the fields via a route we would never have found ourselves. One of them speaks excellent English; his amigo switches effortlessly to German: “Ich habe in der Schweiz gewohnt.”

After a few kilometres, we stop for some final detailed directions: “Go to the left. Uphill. Then to the main road.” In a mixture of Spanish, German, and English, we thank our guides. Isn’t it great to have such encounters on the road?

Tip for the explorer

Do you want to swap the busy beaches of the Costa Blanca for something authentic? Then La Font Salada is an absolute must-visit. Preferably go by bike; the ride through the fragrant orange groves is just as beautiful as the dip in the spring itself. It is a place where you can still truly feel the connection with nature and the local culture.