As summer winds down, many travelers plan retreats to quieter towns scattered across the provinces. Whether solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group, the appeal of a country escape remains strong. The guide below showcases 18 beautiful towns from Alicante, Valencia, and Castellón, inviting readers to feel the charm of Terreta. Whether wandering inland rural lanes or exploring the coast’s inviting beaches, there is something for every traveler to savor.
1.Polop de la Marina (Alicante)
Polop de la Marina, just 12 kilometers from the bustle of Benidorm, embodies history, culture, and nature in one place. The fortress known as the Castle of Polop, of Muslim origin, is a protected cultural landmark. Nearby, the Jets Fountain and the Gabriel Miró House Museum add to the town’s literary and architectural allure, reflecting the author’s nine years spent here writing.
2. Peñíscola (Castellón)
Peñíscola graces the Costa del Azahar with a majestic old town perched atop a hill rising 65 meters above sea level. The Papa Moon Castle dominates the skyline, while the surrounding beaches and coves complete its status as a Levantine coast tourism hotspot.
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3. Morella (Castellón)
Morella beckons with layers of history where civilizations from Iberians to Arabs left their marks. The town’s history, architecture, and landscapes fuse to create a unique identity that speaks of a rich cultural heritage and a legacy of historical art.
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4.Chulilla (Valencia)
Chulilla, in the Valencian Community, earns praise for its dramatic setting and medieval streets. A dramatic basin and the Turía river create an ideal backdrop for hiking along endless tracks, the Calderones Route, and the Blue Puddle. Narrow, steep lanes invite exploration and a sense of stepping back in time.
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5.Altea (Alicante)
Altea stands as a Mediterranean jewel on the Costa Blanca. Beyond its beaches, white-washed houses framed by flowers climb the lanes, and the Church of Our Lady of Consuelo with its blue dome crowns the town’s skyline, offering a memorable view and a peaceful atmosphere.
6.Culla (Castellón)
This small town hides remarkable natural charm. Ancient ruins and cobbled streets evoke medieval times, while the surrounding landscape offers expansive views of l’Alt Maestrat and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, making history and nature feel close at hand.
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7. Vilafamés (Castellón)
Vilafamés sits among almond and olive groves on a hill, with well-preserved old houses and a surrounding environment that preserves rural roots. Its scenic charm makes it a must-visit stop for travelers seeking authentic inland beauty.
8. Finestrat (Alicante)
Finestrat has become a favorite for many travelers, offering a peaceful mix of sea and mountain experiences. Its proximity to Benidorm makes it a convenient base for exploring the coast while enjoying a calmer setting and diverse activities.
Montanejos is renowned for its pure waters, drawing visitors seeking healthful experiences. The town, near Teruel, is famed for springs believed to aid digestion and kidney health, with more than fifty fountains and hot springs inviting a refreshing pause on any journey.
9. Montanejos (Castellón)
Montanejos sits in a landscape where the waters are celebrated for their vitality. The town’s fountains and hot springs offer a rejuvenating stop along the route, making it a memorable encounter with nature and wellness alike.
10. Ares del Maestrat (Castellón)
Ares del Maestrat invites travelers to breathe deeply and enjoy the quiet. Nestled in the heart of the inland Valencian Community, its small population and tranquil surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the hustle of larger towns.
11.Castellfort (Castellón)
Perched at an altitude of about 1,180 meters, Castellfort offers stone-walled houses and a thoughtful, charming atmosphere. Nearby you’ll find Rambla Celumbres Nature Park and Serra del Matxos, drawing visitors with scenic trails and dramatic vistas.
12. Villafranca del Cid (Castellón)
Bordering Aragon’s Teruel, Villafranca del Cid blends tradition with modern touches through its well-kept streets. The area’s caves, rivers, and mountains offer ample outdoor exploration for those seeking a rural interior experience.
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13.Chelva (Valencia)
Chelva, in the Los Serranos region, blends medieval charm with lush river scenery. Narrow lanes and river views create a sense of stepping back into another era, rich with culture and color.
14. Guadalest (Alicante)
Guadalest stays perched on a rock, with views over a wide valley. The castle and stone houses carved into the landscape capture the essence of inland Alicante, a setting that inspired preservation as a historic-art site in the 1970s.
15.Bocairent (Valencia)
Bocairent, known as a city in a mountain, earns praise for its dramatic location on the Sierra Mariola’s northwest slope. Its preserved old town and Covetes del Moros offer an unforgettable medieval vibe, making it one of Spain’s rural wonders.
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16. Jalance (Valencia)
Jalance, a quiet corner in Valencia, provides an unforgettable landscape and abundant natural resources. The Júcar canyons and natural pools offer inspiring scenery along with a sense of renewal in the surrounding nature.
17. Alpuente (Valencia)
Alpuente, a medieval village, sits in a distinctive landscape brimming with cultural significance. Its historically important bridge and paleontology museum, housing a notable dinosaur fossil collection, make it a compelling stop for curious visitors.
18. Xàtiva (Valencia)
Xàtiva is a historic city with a notable castletop setting and the Black Bay deposits. Its Middle Paleolithic remains offer insight into ancient times, and the Xàtiva Castle stands as a testament to enduring history and architectural achievement.