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Altea turns to “firefighter sheep” to protect Sierra de Bernia from wildfires

Altea / 7 May 2026

Altea is once again using an increasingly popular Mediterranean wildfire prevention method: targeted grazing by so-called “firefighter sheep.”

For the third consecutive year, the town council has launched a preventative grazing programme in the Sierra de Bernia, using around 150 native Guirra sheep to naturally clear dry vegetation before the peak summer fire season begins.

Natural firebreaks in high-risk areas

The flock, owned by local shepherd Joan Ripoll “Vixac,” is being deployed around the Calces Pine Forest area — a popular hiking zone and environmentally sensitive part of the Bernia mountains.

Officials say the sheep reduce wildfire risk by consuming dry undergrowth and creating natural firebreaks that help slow the spread of flames during extreme heat and wind conditions.

The approach is increasingly being adopted in parts of Spain, Portugal, Greece, and southern France as authorities look for lower-impact alternatives to heavy mechanical clearing.

Combining tradition with climate adaptation

Altea’s Environment Department says the initiative is designed not only to reduce fire danger, but also to restore traditional land management practices that have declined in recent decades.

Experts have repeatedly warned that abandoned rural land and unmanaged vegetation are major factors behind the growing intensity of Mediterranean wildfires linked to climate change.

By reintroducing grazing, municipalities can:

Lower vegetation density naturally
Improve biodiversity
Reduce erosion and environmental damage
Maintain historic rural landscapes
Protecting heritage as well as forests

As part of the project, the council has also restored the historic “sester” shelter along Camí del Forat — a traditional dry-stone livestock refuge once used by shepherds in the area.

The restoration was carried out using traditional construction techniques and partly funded through support from the Alicante Provincial Council.

Rising costs despite environmental benefits

Local officials say maintaining the programme now costs around €8,000 annually, including livestock transport and upkeep, with some funding gaps requiring direct municipal support.

Despite this, the council argues the long-term environmental and economic benefits far outweigh the costs, especially when compared with the damage caused by major summer wildfires.

Growing model across the Costa Blanca

Controlled grazing projects have become increasingly common across inland areas of the Costa Blanca, where hotter summers and prolonged drought conditions continue to increase wildfire risk.

Altea’s “firefighter sheep” initiative is now being viewed as a model of how traditional rural practices can play a modern role in climate resilience and sustainable land management.

🌴 What's On Across the Costa Blanca

Benidorm & Surrounding Areas | 6–12 July 2026

The Costa Blanca is in full summer swing, with another busy week of sunshine, festivals, sporting events and family entertainment across Benidorm, Altea, Villajoyosa, Finestrat, La Nucía and L'Alfàs del Pi.

With schools now breaking up across Europe and visitor numbers increasing, beaches, attractions, markets and nightlife are all operating at peak season.

☀️ Benidorm

Beaches & Summer Fun

Benidorm's Blue Flag beaches continue to welcome thousands of visitors each day with full summer services.

Activities include:

Parasailing and jet ski adventures
Boat trips to Benidorm Island
Paddleboarding and kayaking
Beach volleyball
Open-air fitness classes
Family beach activities

New Attraction

Visitors can now take photos at Benidorm's brand-new giant seafront letters, created from 170kg of recycled fishing nets, located on the Tamarindos Promenade.

Costa Blanca Cup 2026

The international youth football tournament continues across Benidorm and the Marina Baixa, bringing together:

319 teams
34 countries
Thousands of players, coaches and supporters
Matches are being played throughout the week in Benidorm, Altea, La Vila Joiosa, La Nucía, Finestrat, L'Alfàs del Pi and Calpe.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live tribute shows every evening
Comedy, cabaret and karaoke
Beach clubs and rooftop bars
Live DJs along Levante and Poniente
Sunset boat parties
Summer club nights

🌿 Albir & L'Alfàs del Pi

Award-Winning Nature

The Albir Lighthouse Trail, recently named Spain's Best Blue Trail 2026, remains one of the Costa Blanca's most popular walks.

Visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Serra Gelada Natural Park.

Things To Do

Guided nature walks
Cycling routes
Outdoor fitness
Beachfront restaurants
Evening live music
International community events

🍫 Villajoyosa

Colourful Coastal Heritage

La Vila Joiosa continues to attract visitors with its colourful seafront and historic centre.

Popular attractions include:

Chocolate museum visits
Factory tours
Artisan markets
Historic Old Town walks
Beachfront restaurants
Live music
Summer gastronomy events continue throughout July.

🏟️ La Nucía

Sports & Family Activities

The Camilo Cano Sports City remains busy with:
National and international training camps
Community fitness programmes
Youth sporting events
Outdoor exercise sessions

Family activities

Local summer cultural events and evening entertainment continue throughout the municipality.

🌅 Finestrat

Outdoor Adventures

The warm weather makes Finestrat one of the area's top destinations for outdoor activities.

Popular choices include:
Hiking Puig Campana
Guided countryside walks
Scenic village tours
Mountain biking
La Cala beach days
Shopping & Dining
La Marina Shopping Centre summer promotions
Beachfront restaurants
Evening shopping
Outdoor terraces

🎭 Altea

Arts & Culture

Altea continues its lively summer programme with:
Artisan markets
Art galleries
Live jazz
Acoustic concerts
Cultural events around Plaza de la Iglesia

New This Week

Altea has launched a special summer police operation, increasing patrols across beaches, the Old Town and tourist areas to help keep residents and visitors safe throughout the busy holiday season.

Coastal Experiences
Catamaran cruises
Sunset sailing trips
Seafront dining
Photography workshops

📅 Coming Up

Costa Blanca Cup finals approach
Outdoor concerts continue across the Marina Baixa
More beach entertainment throughout July
Summer fiestas gathering momentum
Markets, family activities and evening events across the region
Tourist attractions operating extended opening hours

Quick Summary

⚽ Costa Blanca Cup continues across the region

📸 New giant Benidorm letters now open on Tamarindos Promenade

🏖️ Beaches, water sports and boat trips in full swing

🌿 Albir Lighthouse Trail remains Spain's Best Blue Trail

🍫 Villajoyosa's heritage attractions continue to draw visitors

👮 Altea launches enhanced summer police patrols

🎶 Live music, nightlife and outdoor dining across the Costa Blanca

☀️ Peak summer holiday season is now underway

🌤️ Weather Outlook

Expect another week of hot, settled weather.

🌡️ Daytime temperatures: 30°C–34°C

🌙 Evening temperatures: 23°C–26°C

Perfect conditions for beach days, sightseeing, outdoor dining and evening entertainment. Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest part of the afternoon.