Guadalest

The hilltop village of Guadalest is about 25 kilometers inland from Benidorm along the CV-70 road and is a popular tourist site with a unique appeal..

Guadalest was once a military stronghold of great strategic importance and is the site of several ancient fortifications.  It retains a Moorish influence in ‘El Arrabal’, the part outside the fortress with its little streets and squares where the majority of today’s shops, craft shops, museums and restaurants are located.

At the top of the village there is a museum which is based in an old house. It costs a few euros to enter but it is well worthwhile as it also gives you access to the top of the rock.  As you follow the path to the top of the rock it gives spectacular views of the surrounding village and the reservoir behind and right at the top of the rock is the village cemetery.

The castle, damaged by an earthquake in 1644 and siege during the War of the Spanish Succession overlooks the valley and amazingly blue river below. and can only be entered by one small tunnel cut through the rock at the San Jose gate. The area inside the walls includes the ancient city dungeons, the bell tower sitting on top of the rock face, Saint Josep castle, the Orduña House, parish church and the Moorish fortified building called Alcozaiba.

Your day to Guadalest would not be complete without considering a visit to Arche Noah or Noah’s Ark, the animal sanctuary.  Noah’s Ark is the inspiration of a man called Serafín who is devoted to providing a home for abandoned and mistreated animals rescued from circus acts, street photographers and irresponsible private collectors. The menagerie includes animals like, lions, tigers, black panthers, cheetahs, wolves, monkeys, bears, chimpanzees, snakes and even domestic farm animals. It is financed by visitors, entry is a nominal 5€,  Guided tours are available, or visitors can just wander around as they wish, enjoying the peace and tranquility of this very special place. Arche Noah in Valle de Guadalest is open from 10 am to 8 pm.