The Castles and Towns of Alicante, Castellón, and Valencia: A Slow Travel Guide

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Culla (Castellon)

In the province of Castellón lies one of the Valencian Community’s most charming corners: Culla. A small town with just over 500 residents, it sits in a privileged natural setting where wild landscapes mingle with a peaceful atmosphere. Exploring its medieval streets feels like stepping back in time, and the stone houses, Arab fortress ruins, the Commander’s Stable, the wave of Salvador Parish Church evoke a world from the Middle Ages. Visitors can stroll among history and admire the town’s traditional architecture, making every corner a story told in stone.

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The surrounding nature of Culla offers a wide mix of activities and clean air. It is a perfect base for day trips to its scenic viewpoints and the Maestrat Mining Park. Food lovers should not miss trying regional specialties such as l’Alt Maestrat’s “teacher pot” or the local “heavenly coke,” dishes that showcase the area’s rich culinary traditions.

Xativa (Valencia)

Xàtiva is a town that seems to cast a spell with every corner. Its monuments tell a layered history, from its Visigothic roots as an episcopal seat to its peak during Muslim rule. The town is also associated with notable figures like the painter José Ribera and the Borja dynasty, known as “El Españoleto.” The impressive castle looms over the old town, and the area was designated a Historical-Artistic Community in 1982. The city’s streets and fortifications provide a vivid sense of the past, inviting visitors to walk through centuries of culture and power.

Precious hiding places and splendid views around the castle make the old town feel alive. Its designation as a Historical-Artistic Community is a testament to the preservation of its heritage, inviting travelers to explore every stone and square in quiet fascination.

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Chulila (Valencia)

Chulilla, a beautiful enclave in the Valencian Community, lies in a position that emphasizes its dramatic central basin and river views. The region is famed for its waterways and scenic routes, offering endless trails like Calderons Route and Blue Puddle. Narrow, steep streets add medieval charm, letting visitors feel history step by step as they wander through the town’s character-filled lanes.

Spain’s inland regions blend sea and mountains, and the province of Alicante is a prime example. Guadalest stands perched on a rock at an elevation of 595 meters. The fortress survives with its distinctive inner-town character, and the surrounding habitat is picturesque, with houses built into the rock and sweeping valley views. This combination of scenery and heritage earned Guadalest its designation as a Historical-Artistic Complex in 1974.

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The area hosts a diverse calendar of cultural events. Tourists can visit Orduna House, a 17th-century noble residence nicknamed Casa Gran, and explore several fascinating museums. The Nativity Scenes and Dollhouses Museum, the Microminiatures Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, and the Historical Vehicles Museum Collection all offer unique insights into regional quirks and history.

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Morella (Castellon)

Morella in Castellón stands as one of the Valencia region’s most remarkable destinations. Nestled at higher altitude with the castle crowned over the town, the medieval atmosphere remains palpable. The main square, the cistern, and the Pardal tower still dominate the skyline, making Morella a treasure of the Castellón region. Even in different seasons, the town preserves its medieval aura, inviting visitors to step back in time. Its Gothic Abbot’s Church of Santa Maria la Mayor reflects the power of past centuries and remains a highlight for travelers seeking historical depth.

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The region hosts a rich tapestry of historical towns awaiting discovery. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old streets, palaces, and plazas that reveal Spain’s diverse medieval heritage. The experience is made even richer by local guides who share tales of battles, rulers, and daily life from long ago, bringing the past to life in vivid detail.

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For travelers seeking affordable exploration, train routes offer a practical option to visit coastal cities and inland fortresses. Practical tips include booking in advance, traveling during off-peak times, and taking advantage of regional passes to enjoy a variety of castles and towns across the region without breaking the bank.