Arriving on the weekend brings a fresh sense of possibility, a break from the daily routine, and a chance to explore something new. For travelers who crave discovery and a change of scenery, a weekend escape offers the perfect plan. When destinations are close by, time on the road is minimized, leaving more space for leisure, comfort, and memorable moments. With that in mind, three charming options near Alicante stand out for a rural getaway.
Three beautiful towns near Alicante for a rural getaway
Close to the province of Alicante there are appealing spots for a relaxing break. Among these, three destinations are highlighted for being within a short drive, each offering a wide range of rural accommodation and leisure activities. The towns featured are Cofrentes, Alcalá del Júcar, and Moratalla. Here is a concise overview of what each place has to offer.
The Cofrentes area is roughly a ninety-minute drive from Alicante, characterized by a scenic natural setting and a well-preserved historic center. A standout activity is the river route along the Júcar, where a boat departs from Cofrentes and glides for about an hour over 14 kilometers of the Cortes reservoir, providing a peaceful vantage on the surrounding landscape. This journey combines gentle water travel with impressive vistas of the valley and its rock formations.
Other natural highlights nearby include the Cerro de Agras volcano, which offers sweeping views of the municipality and surrounding countryside. River road scenery along Cofrentes adds another layer of beauty to a weekend visit.
Within the town center, curious travelers can explore landmarks such as a clock tower and a castle built into the hill, along with historical sites like Brother Pastor’s House, the La Soledad hermitage, and the San José neighborhood. These monuments provide a tangible sense of the area’s past and its enduring character.
Al Alcalá del Júcar in Albacete is celebrated as one of Spain’s most picturesque towns, a true gem of Castilla-La Mancha. Located about 155 kilometers from Alicante, it takes roughly two hours by car to reach this destination. Among the notable sights are the Roman bridge spanning the Júcar River and an imposing castle that dominates the skyline. The town’s steep streets invite visitors to step back in time and absorb the ambience of ancient quarters. Nearby, cave houses carved directly into the rock add another distinctive feature to the landscape.
You can also explore the unique cave dwellings, and the surrounding area offers hiking opportunities that reveal the valley and the riverbed’s dramatic views along the Júcar gorge.
For nature lovers, a walk through the nearby trails is highly rewarding. The easier routes trace the valley and ascend the riverbed, affording spectacular vistas of the Hoz del Júcar. Within a two-hour drive from both the Murcia region and Alicante, Moratalla stands out as another appealing choice. It blends a variety of rural accommodations with cultural landmarks. Notable sights include the Fortress of the Order of Santiago and the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, perched atop the town, inviting a climb through winding streets to reach them.
For hikers, the surrounding landscapes offer multiple trails, including routes across the Vulture Mountains. Weekend visitors are encouraged to take a moment to plan ahead and tailor their outings to personal interests, whether a gentle stroll or a more challenging trek.
Before starting any hiking in different municipalities, it is prudent to check the local weather and dress appropriately; proper footwear and gear can make a big difference in enjoying the day.
Three options, three chances to unwind. Each destination combines natural beauty, historic intrigue, and accessible rural stays that suit a weekend escape from Alicante or nearby regions. The idea is simple: choose a place that matches the pace you want, plan a flexible itinerary, and let the surroundings guide the rest of the experience.