Alicante is famous for its beaches; less so for its hiking. But in the Sierra de la Serrella, a short hop from the city, Isis Taylor discovers a network of trails that combine natural beauty with an insight into ancient cultures

Crisp blue skies, snow, mountains, hotel breakfasts, fresh air and exercise – and you don’t even have to like skiing. Welcome to the world of winter hiking…

NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village

Ascent 903m/2960ft 12.3km / 7.6 miles / 4 hours

Moments enjoyed, lessons learned, handy advice, weird stuff that happened: welcome to the little bits and pieces that don’t make big stories, but do make all the difference.

Kerry Walker takes a road trip through Bannau Brycheiniog National Park