Spain is a country full of stunning towns and picturesque corners, both within and beyond its borders. A major British publication recently dedicated a full report to the 20 most beautiful towns in the country, and Guadalest from Alicante was highlighted as one of the jewels of the province, boasting a remarkable blend of natural scenery and rich historical heritage.
What to see in Guadalest?
The heart of Guadalest preserves a rich architectural legacy. The castle of San José and the castle of Alcozaiba crown the town, perched high above the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore Orduna House, the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, and a 12th-century prison, all among the city’s most interesting landmarks.
The prison sits on the ground floor of the town hall and can be visited at no cost. Entry to the parish church is also free. To access the castles and Orduna House, tickets are required. Each site is a significant architectural treasure worth exploring.
Guadalest’s natural environment
Guadalest sits in a privileged setting, with a reservoir on the town’s outskirts that invites a scenic walking route or a bike excursion to explore the surroundings.
Castell de Guadalest, hiking and beauty
You can park beside the impressive 75-meter dam and begin a circular walk of about ten kilometers. The duration depends on pace, but a steady walker can finish in roughly three hours. The route is straightforward, with gentle gradients, and is suitable for families with children.
Best time of year to visit Guadalest
As autumn arrives and sunsets paint the sky in vibrant colors, Guadalest becomes especially inviting. Cooler temperatures make strolling along the main street more comfortable, and climbing becomes gentler. The fallen leaves on trails around the reservoir add a distinctive atmosphere to the experience.
In this region, Guadalest stands out as a destination that blends natural beauty with meaningful history, making a visit memorable for travelers and locals alike.
Guadalest is often listed among the world’s prettiest towns in travel roundups, underscoring its enduring appeal and its status as a must-see stop on any Spanish itinerary.
Other most beautiful towns in Spain according to ‘The Times’
The Times highlighted Guadalest along with nineteen other towns in Spain, offering a broader view of the country’s diverse beauty. The list serves as a practical guide for planning future trips to remarkable destinations across the peninsula.
For readers curious about regional wonders, a brief look at several contenders reveals a rich tapestry of landscapes and histories across Spain.
Are these the prettiest towns in Alicante?
INFORMATION
- Agulo (La Gomera)
- Teguise (Lanzarote)
- Alcala del Jucar (Albacete)
- Alcudia (Mallorca)
- Genalguacil (Málaga)
- Pampaneira (Granada)
- Lucainena de las Torres (Almería)
- Castellar de la Frontera (Cádiz)
- Almonaster la Real (Huelva)
- Setenil de las Bodegas (Cádiz)
- Morella (Castellón)
- Bowls (Asturias)
- Bulnes (Asturias)
- Cudillero (Asturias)
- Valverde de la Vera (Cáceres)
- Mirambel (Teruel)
- Urueña (Valladolid)
- Bagergue (Lleida)
- Potes (Cantabria)
These towns span coastlines, mountains, and historic towns, offering a range of experiences for visitors exploring Spain’s regional flavors and architectural styles. Their inclusion in the list underscores Spain’s capacity to surprise travelers with enduring charm and distinctive character. [Source: The Times, attribution acknowledged]