An environment to enjoy
The house is located in Benilloba, a charming inland village nestled in the Alicante mountains, ideal for those seeking tranquility, nature, and an authentic rural atmosphere.
The natural surroundings are perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the outdoors. Surrounded by mountains and peaceful landscapes, the area invites leisurely walks and hiking along charming trails. It is also known for its cycling routes, highly appreciated by cycling enthusiasts, which traverse quiet country roads and lightly traveled rural paths. All of this takes place in a serene countryside setting, ideal for relaxing and connecting with nature.
The village
Benilloba
Benilloba is a picturesque town located in the province of Alicante, within the Valencian Community. It lies in the mountainous inland area of the Comtat region, set in a privileged natural environment that combines history, tradition, and nature.
Geographical location and altitude
It is located in the valley formed by the Sierra de Aitana, the Sierra de Almudaina, and the Sierra Mariola, giving it a mountainous landscape and a pleasant climate for much of the year. The town sits at an approximate altitude of 520 meters above sea level, in the Frainós River basin.
Distances to major cities
The town is about 60 kilometers from Alicante, the provincial capital, which is roughly a 50-minute drive. The distance to Valencia, the capital of the Valencian Community, is approximately 105 kilometers, with a travel time of around one hour and ten minutes.
History and heritage
The origins of Benilloba date back to the Muslim period, and over the centuries it has preserved an interesting historical heritage. Notable highlights include the old flour mills, remains of hydraulic infrastructures, and the Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin, one of the town’s most emblematic buildings.
Festivals and traditions
Throughout the year, various festivals are celebrated that form part of its cultural identity:
- Traditional Good Friday Market: handcrafted products, local cuisine, and cultural activities.
- Saint Vincent's Day: It is celebrated on the Monday following Easter Sunday, with religious and popular events.
- Patron Saint Festivals: They take place in mid-August in honor of Saint Joachim, featuring Moors and Christians celebrations, parades, music, the traditional Nit de l’Olla, and activities for all ages.
- Folk dances: In honor of the Virgin, usually celebrated on the first weekend of September.
- October 9th: Valencian Community Day, with community meals and festive activities.
Tourism and natural surroundings
Benilloba is an ideal destination for lovers of rural and nature tourism. Its main attractions include the Salt de Benilloba, an area of waterfalls and old mills along the Frainós River, as well as various hiking trails and beautiful natural areas.
> See El Salt route on Wikiloc
Cuisine and local culture
The traditional cuisine of Benilloba reflects the essence of inland Alicante, featuring dishes such as olleta, borreta, rice dishes, and artisanal products made with olive oil, cured meats, and recipes passed down through generations.
Tourism and activities
The surroundings of El Comtat, the region where our accommodation is located stands out for its extraordinary natural and scenic richness, making it an ideal destination for hiking and active tourism. In the heart of the Sierra Mariola Natural Park you will find unforgettable trails, paths full of history, and cuisine that delights every visitor. Join us in discovering its most emblematic villages and landmarks, and let yourself be captivated by this unique corner of the region.
What to see in El Comtat and the surrounding area
The rugged mountains and lush forests of El Comtat hide charming towns where you can savor traditional dishes like pericana and discover remarkable monuments. Our journey begins in Agres, where the imposing Cava Gran is nestled within the mountain. This 17th- and 18th-century masonry structure is a true heritage gem.
From Agres, we move on to Alfafara, a perfect spot to enjoy trails in the Sierra de Mariola and taste its excellent olive oil. In Benasau you must not miss its washhouse, the Roman bridge, and Ares Castle, perfect settings for capturing unforgettable photos.
The route continues in Beniarrés, where you can cool off in the natural pools at the mouth of the Barranco de l’Encantà or visit the archaeological site of Cova de l’Or on a guided tour. In Benilloba, the Salt de Benilloba takes center stage: a beautiful waterfall next to an old power plant that highlights the importance of water in creating unique landscapes, complemented by historic mills and washhouses.
The magic continues in Benillup, a small village where rural architecture and cobblestone streets evoke times gone by. Benimassot, on the other hand, invites you to explore picturesque corners and enjoy the tranquility of rural life, with numerous hiking trails perfect for a day out.
Cocentaina is remarkable for its rich historical heritage, highlighted by the Condal Palace, its castles, and its walled enclosure, all of great cultural value. In Fageca, nature takes center stage, with trails leading up to the summit of the Sierra de Serrella.
Just a few minutes away is Famorca, a small mountain village with a charming church and cobblestone streets. Muro de Alcoy stands out for its historical character and festivals, as well as interesting sites such as the Cova de Beneito archaeological site and its well-preserved historic center.
In Planes and Tollos, the serenity of the natural surroundings invites you to unwind and explore peaceful landscapes. Tollos is also part of Route 99, as it is one of the municipalities in the Valencian Community with fewer than 100 inhabitants.
More than twenty towns make up the El Comtat region, characterized by an abundance of natural resources and a highly valuable historical heritage. All of this makes this inland area of the Costa Blanca an ideal refuge for cultural and nature tourism.
Nature is the main attraction in a setting dominated by the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park and the Carrascal de la Font Roja Natural Park. This is complemented by a varied and authentic cuisine, based on traditional recipes prepared with local products, as tradition dictates.
The journey continues on Alcocer de Planes, where history and tranquility intertwine, and on Alcoleja, a small village surrounded by nature and charming trails. In Almudaina, its castle dominates the landscape and transports visitors to the past, while in l’Alqueria d’Asnar its rural atmosphere and the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord stand out.
Balones captivates with its traditional architecture and its castle, Benimarfull with its historical heritage and welcoming atmosphere, and Quatretondeta with its picturesque corners and the Church of the Assumption.
Gaianes surprises with its castle and natural environment, Gorga invites to discover its architectural and cultural richness, and Lorcha, located in a beautiful valley, is perfect for enjoying nature and tranquility. Finally, Millena completes the route with its church and its charming streets.
Just a few minutes away you'll find Alcoy, a city of great cultural, historical, and natural richness, known for its modernist architecture, festivals, and mountainous surroundings. Additionally, its proximity to the Costa Blanca allows you to easily combine the tranquility of the rural landscape with trips to beaches and attractive coastal towns, making Benilloba an ideal starting point for exploring both the inland areas and the Mediterranean coast.
For more information:
Cycling routes
The surroundings of Benilloba are ideal for cycle tourism and professional team training for much of the year, thanks to its favorable climate, abundant quiet secondary roads, and highly varied terrain. Just a few kilometers away are iconic mountain passes such as Confrides or Tudons, which offer challenging climbs and spectacular landscapes, making the area a perfect destination for training safely and effectively.
Motorcycle routes
If you love motorcycles, this area is a true paradise, with winding, exhilarating roads that meander through spectacular landscapes. The routes are complemented by countless roadside bars where you can stop and enjoy the typical esmorzar (breakfast) from Valencia, always in a lively, biker-friendly atmosphere, perfect for sharing your passion for two wheels.
Points of interest
Legend
