he arrived for the weekend with a clear aim: break the routines and try something new. for travelers who love exploring and uncovering fresh spots, this destination deserves a place on the list. it’s the ideal weekend escape because nearby places save travel time, leaving more moments for leisure and discovery. below are three enchanting rural getaways near Alicante that promise a rejuvenating break.
Three beautiful towns near Alicante for a rural getaway
Within easy reach of the Alicante province lie charming locales perfect for a relaxed holiday. three options have been selected, each under a two-hour drive, offering a rich mix of rural accommodations and engaging activities. explore Cofrentes, Alcalá del Júcar, and Moratalla to experience different landscapes, histories, and local flavors.
top routes and outings to enjoy in Alicante this weekend offer a balanced blend of scenic drives, cultural sights, and nature walks. the towns below showcase natural beauty, historic centers, and outdoor adventures that fit a short break perfectly.
The town of Cofrentes sits about 138 kilometers from Alicante, making it a convenient first stop for a weekend trip. visitors will find a well-preserved historic center nestled in a lush natural setting. a popular activity is the river route along the Júcar, which can be enjoyed by boat from Cofrentes toward Pallas Courts. the cruise lasts about an hour and covers roughly 14 kilometers on the Cortes reservoir, offering serene views and a gentle pace for all ages. a celebrated natural feature nearby is the Cofrentes volcanic crater, a reminder of the region’s dramatic geology.
another highlight is the Cerro de Agras Volcano area, from which visitors can take in expansive views over the town and its surroundings. a river route through Cofrentes provides a different lens on the landscape, with lush banks and a tranquil setting that rewards relaxed exploration.walking through the town center reveals a compact, walkable core with historic architecture and a sense of continuity with the past. key monuments include the clock tower within the old fortress area, the home of Brother Pastor, the Soledad hermitage, and the San José neighborhood. these sites weave a story of craft, faith, and daily life across centuries.
Alcalá del Júcar in Albacete is celebrated as one of the most scenic spots in Castilla-La Mancha and Spain. located about 155 kilometers from Alicante, it’s a comfortable two-hour drive by car. the town’s Roman bridge spanning the Júcar river and the towering hilltop castle are standout attractions, with steep, winding streets transporting visitors to another era. visitors can also explore cave houses carved directly into the rock, a distinctive feature that visitors often remember long after the trip. walking routes through the surrounding area invite hikers to soak in dramatic landscapes and historical stonework.
for those who love easy exploration, the town offers a gentle stroll to the cave houses and an opportunity to savor local cuisine in traditional settings. nearby routes take pedestrians through the terraced hills and into the shadow of the castle, creating memorable viewpoints and photo opportunities. hiking along the river valley provides impressive views of the Júcar gorge, a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts. Moratalla, in the Murcia region, sits less than two hours from Alicante and is renowned for its varied rural accommodations and welcoming countryside. this town offers a diverse set of attractions, including the medieval stronghold of the Order of Santiago and the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, both perched atop the town’s historic center. the climb through narrow streets leads visitors to these landmarks, where history feels tangible in every step.
nature lovers will appreciate the network of hiking trails in the surrounding area, including paths that traverse Sierra del Buitre and other scenic ridges. a countryside weekend can be filled with walking routes, offering fresh air, forest scents, and panoramic vistas. it is common to plan a few days here to fully unwind and immerse in rural life. weather checks and proper gear help ensure a comfortable experience while exploring the hills and valleys.
these getaways illustrate how a short drive from Alicante can unlock a variety of experiences. whether travelers prefer ancient streets, dramatic rock formations, or tranquil river scenes, the region offers it all within a compact weekend itinerary. by mixing historical sights with natural beauty, visitors can craft a balanced escape that feels both restorative and adventurous.