Guadalest, Valencia, Spain.
The terrain along the shorelines of the Costa Blanca has developed rapidly but many hidden jewels still remain unspoiled. The beauty of visiting old pueblos inland is that they are not far away from modern resorts and beaches. There will be a town somewhere within the Costa Blanca with concealed treasures and Guadalest is at top of the list. Situated in the Marina Baja region, Guadalest rises above the rocks and sits on an altitude of 590 meters.
Once you turn the last approach to the village, the bell tower known as Penon de la Alcala sets the stage as captivating pinnacle surrounded by mountains and valleys. Your first impression will be nothing but oohs and aahs. The upward climb and winding roads will make this day trip to Guadalest worthwhile, whether you take an organized tour or venture on your own.
Guadalest is set among the Aitana, Serella and Xorta Mountains and was a military stronghold dating back to 715 AD. Guadalest Fortress was ruled by several Aragon kings.
Upon your arrival, follow the narrow streets upward and pass under the arch and marvel at the simplicity of its facades. You will come upon a spectacular square with an awesome view looking down to valleys to the Guadalest reservoir which services the northern region. On an especially clear day, even the Mediterranean is in full view!
This sleepy town holds a wonderful fiesta to its patron saint; La Virgen de la Asuncion each year from August 14 to 17.
The Fortress
The white-washed bell tower is situated beside the Guadalest Castle, which was damaged in 1848 when kegs of gunpowder exploded. In 1974, the fortress was declared a Monument of Historical and Artistic Value. The municipality meanwhile has remained quite small with a population of about 204.
Casa Orduña
This home belonged to a noble family whose roots date back to the 17th century. Some of the furnishings, artwork and linens are intact as during its past. Many consider the Library one of the most attractive features of the home, which contains 1265 volumes. On the upper floor is the Exhibition Hall offering the numerous of art works (both contemporary and traditional) depicting only Guadalest through the artists eyes. During the month of July, an international artist show is in place outdoors set against this wonderful backdrop of this manor house.
Casa TÃpica Museum
This is partially a reproduction of an existing house of the XVIII century which depicts self sufficiency in the small village. A bread oven, with a pantry, and different tools for agricultural work, and with furniture and clothes of the period are just some of the items on display. Within the home you will learn how oil was made with all the machinery and tools for the preparation from the vine to the finished product.
Miniatures Museum
This museum would certainly interest children to view several kinds of miniatures through magnifying glasses. Some of the highlights are the Statue of Liberty inside a needle, a Picasso work of art painted on a seed and a Goya on a grain of rice.
How to Get To Guadalest
Near Benidorm – take the CV70 road towards Terra Mitica. Follow signs for La Nucia until a roundabout sends you off to the right heading for Guadalest.
The route will take approximately 30 minutes drive. It is suggested to arrive early prior to the tour buses. If you prefer to use a tour operator, many local agencies offer half day excursions to Guadalest.
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UK TV in Guadalest – how to receive UK TV in Guadalest
The Sat and PC Guy installs and maintains Digital Satellite Television Systems, for reception of UK TV in Guadalest.
Reception of satellite TV channels from the BBC an ITV can be achieved using a minimum of a 110x120cm satellite dish or the recommended 125x135cm satellite dish.
We install Digital Terrestrial Television, TDT, Spain Freeview for Spanish TV reception in Guadalest. Depending on your location to the TDT transmitters, you can receive around 30 digital television channels, with the option change the language on many programmes into English.