Place to Visit: Guadalest & Font D’Algar
© 2008 SmileFM Magazine
Guadalest, the Eagles Nest, is located about 25 km inland from Benidorm along the CV-70 road. It enjoys one of the most spectacular locations of any village in Spain.
Set high up on a pinnacle and carved out of a mountain-top in the midst of truly stunning scenery. It has a population of only 200 but is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain.
The drive inland from Altea is fascinating as you follow the winding road ever higher past the picturesque village of Polop, before emerging finally high up over Guadalest.
Of Islamic origin, Guadalest was a military stronghold of great strategic importance and is the site of several ancient castles, the remains of which can still be seen today – although earthquakes and battles during the War of Spanish Succession (early 18th Century) have reduced these castles to little more than shells.
One of its most famous landmarks is the Penon de La Alcala tower rising high above the village to watch over the valley below.
It is a popular attraction and we recommend you get to the castle early to avoid the crowds. The castle tour opens at 10am, and be prepared for steep inclines so wear sturdy footwear to cope with the cobbled paths.
Don’t forget your camera and your hat.
Children will love the castle too; it is simply exciting being in a ruined castle on top of the world. There is also a dungeon to explore and several coin operated telescopes to peer down the reservoir and the countryside below.
Guadalest has been declared a ‘Monument of Historical and Artistic Value’ and is a must for any sightseeing visitors to the Costa Blanca. It’s beautiful.
The Fuentes del Algar, the waterfalls of Algar, is a natural beauty spot set high in the mountains behind Altea.
Walk the paths alongside the beautiful river as it tumbles down the mountain, and swim in its pools and waterfalls.
The crystal clear pools are filled by springs whose waters flow directly from among the rocks.
Paths follow the course of the river and are constantly flanked by the characteristic vegetation of the area, such as reeds, bamboo and oleandas.
One path goes up through aromatic herbs to the ‘Arboretum’ a garden of natural spices containing most of the typical Mediterranean spice plants.
Next to this is the museum of the environment which houses a small collection of aromatic and medicinal herbs and the essence of oils and perfumes made from them. These products are available for purchase.
At the top of the valley, a wide open space has been prepared with facilities including barbecues, tables, benches, toilets and showers.
A trip to the Fuentes is a pleasant way to escape the tourists on the coast, but beware – it is very popular during peak season. A trip is best combined with a visit to Guadalest, which is reached from Callosa.
ARTICLE: Guadalest and the Waterfalls of Algar 
Linear Mode
