The province of Alicante, on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is home to a variety of charming villages that captivate with their beauty and traditional charm. These villages, with their picturesque architecture, cobblestone streets and stunning natural surroundings, are ideal destinations to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region.
Below, I will highlight some of the most beautiful villages in the province of Alicante:
- Guadalest: Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, Guadalest is a medieval village with stunning scenery. Its old town is built on top of a hill and is dominated by the castle of San Jose, which offers panoramic views of the Guadalest reservoir. Its narrow cobbled streets, traditional style houses and rich history make it a fascinating place to visit.
- Altea: Known as the «corner of the Costa Blanca», Altea is a coastal town full of charm. Its old town, with its white houses and narrow streets, is a labyrinth of Mediterranean beauty. The church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo stands out, with its blue and white dome, and its viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the sea and the mountains. In addition, Altea has beautiful beaches and a lively art scene.
- Villajoyosa: This colorful seaside town is famous for its brightly colored houses along the promenade. Villajoyosa has a long fishing tradition, which is reflected in its port and its famous fish market. Its old town, with its narrow cobbled streets, historic churches and the iconic Chocolate Museum, make it a charming place to explore.
- Xàbia (Jávea): Located on the Costa Blanca, Xàbia is a picturesque town with a beautiful harbor and a charming old town. Its crystal clear beaches, such as Arenal beach and Granadella cove, are some of the best in the region. In addition, the Montgó Natural Park, which surrounds the town, offers spectacular trails for nature lovers.
- Novelda: Novelda is known for its rich modernist architecture and impressive monuments. Highlights include the Basilica of Santa María Magdalena, a masterpiece of modernist architecture designed by the renowned architect Antonio Gaudí. In addition, the Castillo de la Mola, located on top of a hill, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
- Denia: Located on the Costa Blanca, Denia perfectly combines its historical charm with its crystal clear beaches. Its old town houses the castle of Denia, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the city. In addition, its marina and lively markets make Denia a vibrant place to visit.
- Polop: This charming village is located in the foothills of the Sierra de Aitana and has a stunning natural environment. Its old town is characterized by cobbled streets, traditional houses and the church of San Pedro. From the castle of Polop, located on top of a hill, you can admire the panoramic views of the surroundings.
- El Castell de Guadalest: Situated on top of a cliff, El Castell de Guadalest offers spectacular views of the Guadalest reservoir and the surrounding mountains. This small village is in a stunning natural setting and boasts a collection of houses and cobblestone streets that transport you back in time. In addition, the local museum and numerous viewpoints are a must-see.
- Calpe: With its iconic Ifach Rock, Calpe is a popular tourist destination on the Costa Blanca. This coastal town combines its historical heritage with modern tourist facilities. Its beaches of fine sand and crystal clear waters, such as Levante beach and Fossa beach, are ideal for enjoying the sun and sea.
- Elche: Known for its impressive palm grove, declared a World Heritage Site, Elche is a city that combines tradition with modernity. In addition to its palm trees, Elche has monuments such as the palace of Altamira, the basilica of Santa Maria and the huerto del Cura, a garden full of exotic palm trees.
These villages stand out for their charm, history and natural beauty. Each one offers a unique experience and allows you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the province of Alicante. Exploring these places will give you the opportunity to enjoy the traditional architecture, discover the local gastronomy and marvel at the natural landscapes that surround them.