Charming villages of Alicante: recommended itinerary for hired Motorhomes and Campers

The province of Alicante is a treasure trove of picturesque villages, each with its own personality, history, and charm. Traveling in a camper van offers the unique freedom to explore these corners at your own pace, providing the flexibility to change destinations according to your desires.

Here we present an itinerary that will take you through some of the most charming villages in Alicante, perfect for exploring from the driver's seat of your camper, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Altea: The Dome of the Mediterranean

Our journey begins in Altea, known as "The Dome of the Mediterranean" for its iconic blue-domed church that dominates the old town. This village is characterized by its cobblestone streets, white houses, and a vibrant art scene. Traveling in a camper van, you can enjoy the tranquility of its beaches and the beauty of its promenade at any time, easily finding places to park outside the center to enjoy the best view upon waking.

Villajoyosa: Color and Chocolate

Continuing down the coast to the south, we arrive at Villajoyosa, or La Vila Joiosa, famous for its colorful fishermen's houses and its ancient chocolate-making tradition. A visit to one of its chocolate factories is a must, where you can learn about the manufacturing process and taste the final product. With your camper, you have the freedom to find a cozy spot by the sea to spend the night and wake up to views of the blue Mediterranean.

Guadalest: A Viewpoint to History

Venturing inland, we find Guadalest, located in an impressive mountainous setting. This village not only offers spectacular views from its castle but also a series of curious museums that are worth a visit. With the camper, you can get close to this unique enclave, enjoying the hiking trails in its surroundings and overnighting in nearby places that allow you to appreciate the nature and tranquility of the Alicante hinterland.

The village of Guadalest, officially known as El Castell de Guadalest, is a picturesque and charming municipality located in the province of Alicante, within the Valencian Community, Spain. This small town, settled in an impressive mountainous location, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the region, famous for its natural beauty, historical heritage, and spectacular panoramic views. Here I detail some of the highlights of Guadalest and what you can see or visit:

1. San José Castle: Built in the 11th century, this castle is located atop a crag and is accessible only through a tunnel carved into the rock, known as "El Portal". From its walls, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and the Guadalest reservoir.
2. The Old Town: Guadalest has a charming old town, with narrow, cobblestone streets winding between white houses and local craft shops. Walking through these streets is like stepping back in time.
3. The Guadalest Reservoir: This reservoir, located at the foot of the town, offers a spectacular contrast to the mountainous landscape. It is a popular spot for photography, and the calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains and the sky.
4. Quirky Museums: Guadalest hosts several small and unique museums, including the Miniature Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, and the Museum of Torture Instruments, among others. These museums provide a fascinating and sometimes peculiar insight into different aspects of culture and history.
5. The Church of the Assumption: This Baroque church, built in the 18th century, is located in the main square of the village and is notable for its architecture and religious art.
6. Viewpoints: Given its location, Guadalest offers several viewpoints from where you can contemplate panoramic views of the valley, the reservoir, and the surrounding mountains. These viewpoints are perfect for photography or simply to enjoy the tranquility of the landscape.
7. Local Cuisine: You cannot visit Guadalest without trying the local cuisine, which includes dishes such as rice with rabbit and snails, mountain sausages, and traditional sweets. There are several restaurants and cafes that offer these local delicacies.

Guadalest is a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and nature. Its unique combination of stunning natural landscapes, historical heritage, and cultural curiosities make it an exceptional destination in the Valencian Community

Finestrat: Where the Mountain Meets the Sea

Finestrat combines the best of both worlds: a picturesque village that clings to the mountain and a beautiful cove a few kilometers away. This contrast offers the opportunity to enjoy activities in nature and relax on the beach on the same day. Traveling in a camper, you have the flexibility to move between these two environments according to your preferences, making the most of what each has to offer.

Jijona: La Dulzura del Turrón

We cannot talk about charming villages in Alicante without mentioning Jijona, the cradle of nougat. This village is a sweet destination at any time of the year, where you can explore its history and tradition at the Nougat Museum. Traveling in a camper van, you can immerse yourself in the heart of the nougat tradition and, perhaps, take with you some delicacies to enjoy during the rest of your trip.

Jijona is a place with a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. Here I detail some points of interest and activities you can enjoy in Jijona:

1. Nougat Museum: Jijona is internationally recognized for its production of nougat, a sweet made primarily of almonds and honey. The Nougat Museum offers visitors a deep look into the history and manufacturing of this product, which is essential for the local economy and the cultural identity of Jijona. At the museum, you can learn about the different types of nougat and the production process, from raw materials to the final product.
2. Nougat Factories: Several factories in Jijona offer tours during which you can see the nougat production in action and taste different varieties. These visits are especially popular during the months leading up to Christmas, which is when nougat is traditionally consumed in Spain.
3. Old Town: The old town of Jijona, with its narrow and steep streets, offers a special charm. You can enjoy a walk through these streets, admiring the traditional architecture and visiting the church of Santa María, which is a prominent landmark in the city.
4. Festivals and Traditions: Jijona celebrates several festivities throughout the year, where you can experience local traditions, music, dance, and, of course, gastronomy. The Nougat Fair, held in December, is a highlight event where you can enjoy this sweet in all its forms.
5. Nature and Hiking: The surroundings of Jijona offer beautiful natural landscapes, with mountains and valleys perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. The area is part of the l'Alacantí region, which has numerous hiking trails and points of natural interest.
6. Gastronomy: In addition to nougat, Jijona has a rich gastronomic tradition that includes dishes such as pericana, rice with rabbit and snails, and various traditional desserts. Visiting Jijona is also an opportunity to enjoy these dishes in local restaurants.

Jijona is a destination that offers much more than its famous nougat. Its rich history, cultural traditions, and natural beauty make this place a unique point of interest in the Valencian Community, ideal for those seeking authentic experiences and traditional flavors.

Tips for Exploring Villages with Your Camper

• Parking: Research in advance the parking options for campers in each village. Some offer specific areas for motorhomes near the centers of interest.
• Sustainability: Traveling in a camper implies a responsibility towards the environment. Make sure to use the services of motorhome areas for the disposal of waters and keep the places you visit clean.
• Flexible Planning: One of the greatest advantages of traveling in a camper is the ability to modify your itinerary on the go. Maintain an open attitude and let yourself be surprised by what you find along the way.

Exploring the charming villages of Alicante in a camper van not only allows you to discover the beauty and diversity of the province but also offers a unique travel experience, mixing adventure, culture, and comfort. Each village has its own story to tell, and by traveling in a camper, you can hear them all at your own pace, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We hope this itinerary inspires your next adventure in the province of Alicante, discovering the magic of its villages aboard your home on wheels.