On Saturday the 17th of February, my friends and I embarked on a journey to the quaint town of Guadalest and the charming city of Altea. Nestled in the mountains roughly 120km southwest of Valencia, Guadalest is not your typical village. Despite having only 209 inhabitants, its significance is monumental.
Surrounded by the Aitana and Xortá mountain ranges, this village of Muslim origin is a tapestry of historic and artistic architecture. A highlight of our visit was the San José castle, an 11th-century Muslim fortress. After navigating through a natural tunnel carved into the rock, we reached the top where the panoramic views were simply breathtaking. For a mere 3 euros, the castle offered a vantage point like no other, with sprawling vistas reaching out to the sea. I can’t recommend this experience enough; it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Later that day, we made our way to Altea, a beautiful coastal town that exudes a mix of historical charm and artistic flair. The Parish Church of the Virgin of Consuelo stands proudly at the town’s summit, its iconic blue and white dome a beacon against the sky. Nearby, the second dome topped with a delicate cupola completed the picturesque scene.
From the church square, we took in the expansive views of the region before wandering down steep, cobbled streets. We meandered past whitewashed houses and artists’ workshops, soaking in the creative spirit that flowed as freely as the Mediterranean breeze.
Descending to the town’s lower reaches, we indulged in the local cuisine, sharing a paella for lunch at a seaside restaurant. Priced at an affordable 12.5 euros per person, the meal was a feast for the senses and the soul. After our lunch, we strolled along the promenade, letting the day slowly wind down – or as we say in German, ‘haben den Tag ausklingen lassen.’ This phrase perfectly captures the essence of our day in Altea: a serene conclusion to a day rich with discovery.