Places to Visit

There is so much to see and do in the area, for all tastes and cultural interests - here are just a few of our personal suggestions…

El Castell de Guadalest

Perched on top of a five hundred metre high rock, this tiny 11th century village of just 200 inhabitants, is one of Spain’s most beautiful historic villages. Visit the castle, and wander the cobbled streets visiting the many amazing small museums to see - dolls houses, salt and pepper shakers (20,000 of them!), historic vehicles, Microminiatures (including the Statue of Liberty inside the eye of a needle!) and our favourite - Microgigante which features many impossible looking miniature artworks, such as a self-portrait carved in a grain of sand. Find information on Guadalest here.

Ifach Rock – Calpe

The Phoenicians called the Rock of Ifach the Northern Rock to distinguish it from Gibraltar (the Southern Rock) as these were the only spectacular promontories they encountered on their travels to the western shores of the Mediterranean. 332m high, the Ifach is today a nature reserve and can be reached by a zigzag path to get a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Marina Alta (not for the faint hearted!).

Bernia Mountains

The rugged mountains you can see from Casa Windlenook’s terrace are the Sierra Bernia – and we highly recommend the stunning drive up through these spectacular mountains. There is a restaurant with fabulous almost 180 degree coastal and mountain views near the top – a great stop for lunch: ‘Coll de Rates’ open 11.00hrs – 20.00hrs Tel 966 445 604

Valencia

Spain's third city, Valencia is home to the largest urban complex in Europe designed specifically for learning, culture and leisure - The City of Arts and Sciences. Built alongside the former bed of the River Turia, it is divided into four sections including L’Hemisferic and L’Oceanografic.

Valencia really does offer a perfect blend of a beautiful historic centre, beaches, fiestas including the world-famous Las Fallas, and a great sporting heritage having for several years been the home to The America’s Cup (the Yachting World’s equivalent of the Olympics) and the Formula 1 Grand Pix of Europe. Just over an hour's drive from Casa Windlenook, you'll find lots of information about the city on this link here - we'd highly recommend a day trip.

Vineyards of the Jalon Valley

The Jalon Valley is a short drive inland from the villa, and is a breathtaking area to visit due to the abundance of vineyards, olive groves and almond trees - Spring is very special when all the pink and white blossom is on show!

The Jalon Valley stretches over a wide area and the town of Jalon is home to the famous wine cooperative of the region. Over 2 million litres of wine is produced per year here and sold all over Spain - visit Bodegas Xalo for a tasting or guided tour. On Saturdays there is an Antique Flea Market just opposite the Bodega.

Altea – Old town

Altea has a superb beachfront and promenade with lovely restaurants and shops. A short stroll up through the cobbled streets leads to the historic old town - quaint ancient streets which culminate in the square with spectacular views along the coast.