Day trips to picturesque inland villages

The Costa Blanca is known for its beautiful coastline, but the hinterland also offers a wealth of picturesque villages and special attractions that are absolutely worth exploring. A day trip to the interior of the Costa Blanca will take you past ancient villages, green valleys and rugged mountains, far away from the hustle and bustle of the coast. Here are some of the most beautiful day trip destinations in the interior of the Costa Blanca.

1. Guadalest – A medieval village on a mountain top

Guadalest, located just a half-hour drive from Benidorm, is one of the most enchanting villages in the interior of the Costa Blanca. Perched on a steep mountain peak, this medieval village offers breathtaking views of the turquoise-blue reservoir and surrounding mountains. The main attraction is the castle of Guadalest, where you can walk up through a narrow passage for panoramic views over the valley. The village is also known for its charming streets and small museums, including the Doll's House Museum and the Museum of Medieval Toys.

Tip: Don't forget to taste the local delicacies in one of the cosy restaurants.

2. Alcoy – Town of bridges and the 'Mores & Christians'

Alcoy, also known as ‘the city of bridges,’ lies a little further inland, but with its rich history and impressive architecture, it is well worth a visit. Alcoy is famous for its annual Moors and Christians Festival, which is held in April and celebrates the town's past with colourful parades and historical performances. Stroll through the old town and admire the beautiful modernist buildings, such as the Circulo Industrial and the Church of Santa Maria. There are also some beautiful hiking trails around Alcoy, such as the Route of the Mills, which takes you past old mills and beautiful landscapes.

Tip: Visit the archaeological museum to learn more about Alcoy's history and cultural heritage.

3. Jalón Vallei – Vineyards and almond blossoms

The Jalón Valley, also known as the Vall de Pop, is a picturesque destination famous for its vineyards and almond trees. In February, the valley turns into a sea of pink and white blossoms. The villages of Jalón, Alcalalí and Llíber are perfect for a relaxing day out, where you can stroll through narrow streets and enjoy local wines and tapas. Be sure to visit the weekly market in Jalón on Saturdays, where you can find antiques, handicrafts and regional products. Don't forget to also visit the local wineries, where you can taste the region's delicious wines.

Tip: Taste the sweet muscatel wine, a speciality of the Jalón Valley.

4. Biar – Castle and ceramics

Biar is a small village with a rich past and an impressive castle towering above it. Its narrow streets, historic buildings and white houses with blue roof tiles give Biar an authentic atmosphere. The Biar castle, built in the 12th century, is one of the best-preserved castles in the region and offers stunning views over the surrounding hills. Biar is also famous for its ceramics, and in the village there are several workshops where artisans demonstrate their art and offer their work for sale.

Tip: Combine your visit with a hike through the nearby Sierra de Mariola, a beautiful nature reserve.

5. Bocairent – Historical village and astonishing nature

Located in the Sierra de Mariola, Bocairent is a village that has fully preserved its medieval appearance. Bocairent's old quarter is a maze of steep alleys, steps and cobbled squares. A special attraction are Bocairent's cave settlements, dug into the rock, some of which date back to the time of the Moors. The bridge leading to the old centre offers spectacular views, perfect for a photo opportunity. Besides the charming village, Bocairent also offers plenty of hiking opportunities in the surrounding nature, such as the Parc Natural de la Serra Mariola, with its lush vegetation and fragrant herb fields.

Tip: 'Villa Carmen' is a charming little hotel, a so-called ‘casa rural’, with a camping area and swimming pool to stay in. It is within walking distance of the village of Bocairent.

6. Ontinyent – Culture, architecture and natural swimming pools

Ontinyent, located on the Clariano River in the interior of the Costa Blanca, is a charming town that perfectly combines history and nature. The historic centre is a warren of narrow streets, winding staircases and old houses. The medieval La Vila district is a wonderful example of the Moorish influence and invites you to stroll along the old city walls and squares full of history. Ontinyent also offers the ideal opportunity for a relaxing day in nature. One of Ontinyent's most attractive spots is the natural pool ‘Pou Clar’, a series of crystal-clear, turquoise pools and natural pools formed by the Clariano River. Located just outside the town, Pou Clar is a popular spot for swimming, hiking and picnicking. The area is surrounded by impressive rock formations and green hills, making for a beautiful, serene setting.

Tip: In summer, a trip to Pou Clar is the ideal way to refresh yourself in the cool water and enjoy a relaxing day at the water's edge.

7. Castell de Castells – Special rock drawings and authentic charm

Castell de Castells is a small and quiet mountain village best known for its impressive prehistoric rock, called Pla de Petracos. The petroglyphs, which are thousands of years old, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are freely accessible. Castell de Castells itself has an authentic charm, with small cafés where you can enjoy local dishes and a picturesque landscape of mountains and valleys. For nature lovers, there are several hiking trails in the area, including the challenging ascent of Mount Aixortá.

Tip: Visit the information centre to learn more about the rock ‘art’ and history of the region.

8. Elche – Palm trees and history

Elche, the city of palm trees, is a fascinating destination with a unique atmosphere and a rich historical heritage. Elche's Palm Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a huge park with thousands of palm trees, ideal for a relaxing stroll. Also visit the historic old town and the Basilica of Santa Maria, where the famous Misteri d'Elx is performed every year, a religious drama that has been performed since the Middle Ages. The old town and the Arab baths give a special insight into Elche's history, which dates back to the time of the Phoenicians.

Tip: Take a short drive to nearby Huerto del Cura, a botanical garden with a remarkable collection of palm trees.

Practical tips for a day trip

Most of these villages are easily accessible by car and many routes offer beautiful views of the Costa Blanca's mountains and valleys along the way. To visit the historic villages and natural areas, it is of course useful to bring comfortable shoes and have a water bottle handy, especially during the warmer months. Also note that some places can be quieter on Sundays, with shops and restaurants closed. This is especially true during periods outside the summer season.

Conclusion

A day trip to the interior of the Costa Blanca offers a nice change from the bustling life on the coast. The charming villages and impressive landscapes invite discovery and enjoyment, whether you love history, nature or just a quiet day out.

Whether you are looking for a photogenic view, a cultural getaway or a quiet walk, the interior of the Costa Blanca has it all!