Hardly any other place in the province of Alicante has been immortalised on postcards as often as this little gem in the mountains. Anyone who lives here or regularly spends time on the Costa Blanca has probably already visited the mountain village. But is it worth another trip? Absolutely! Because off the beaten track, there is more to discover in and around Guadalest than you might think.
Through the rock face into the Middle Ages
The first impression is always magical: the narrow passage carved into the rock through which you enter the historic centre of the village feels like a journey through time. It's a familiar sight, but it never fails to impress. But what many people overlook: The fortress that towers over the village tells a complex story of Arab emirs, Christian conquerors and an earthquake that almost wiped it out. Today, only ruins remain, but from here you can enjoy a panoramic view that has lost none of its dramatic fascination from the first visit.
A little tip that is hardly noticed: the best time of day to visit the castle is late afternoon. Most of the day trippers have already disappeared by then and the setting sun bathes the mountain landscape in an unreal golden light.
Museums - secrets and curiosities
Many people associate Guadalest with the small, often quirky museums, some of which at first glance seem more interesting for children or lovers of miniatures. However, the Museo Etnológico is an underrated gem. Here you can really understand how hard life was in the mountains before the tourist boom. The contrast between today's idyll and the barren everyday life of earlier generations is impressive.
If that's too serious for you, the Museo de Microgigante exhibits tiny works of art that can only be viewed through a magnifying glass - including the „Eiffel Tower on the head of a pin“. Sounds weird? It is, but that's exactly what makes Guadalest so charming.
The reservoir - turquoise blue and almost deserted
One image that many people recognise from Guadalest is the bright turquoise-coloured reservoir below the village. But who has actually been down to the water? There are paths down to the shore that only a few tourists use. Here you can have a picnic in absolute peace and quiet or simply enjoy the contrast between the steep rock faces and the water. In summer, you can even hire kayaks - a change of perspective that makes Guadalest look completely different from below.
Insider tip: A stop at Bodega Maso
After so much exploring, it's time for a break - and this is where a real insider tip comes into play. On the way to or from Guadalest, it's worth stopping off at Bodega Maso, one of the most charming wineries in the region.
Many people do not necessarily associate the Costa Blanca with first-class wine, but that is precisely what makes this stop so exciting. The Maso family produces small quantities of excellent wines, including a red wine that is matured in old amphorae - a method that dates back to the Romans. Liquid gold for lovers of local wines! If you're lucky, you'll meet the owner, who talks about his vines with palpable passion.
And the best thing is that the tasting often takes place in the middle of the vineyards, with a view of the valley. A glass of good wine, accompanied by a mild breeze blowing through the olive trees - a worthy end to an excursion to Guadalest, which this time was more than just a photo stop.
Rediscover Guadalest
Yes, most residents know it. But Guadalest still has facets that surprise. So why not visit Guadalest again - but this time with a new perspective?
