After living in Alicante for several years, I often drive around the surrounding areas on weekends. The city itself is beautiful, but there are also many places worth exploring nearby. Today I’d like to share a few spots I frequently visit, all within about an hour’s drive.
Elche Palm Grove
Drive south about 20 kilometers from Alicante and you’ll reach Elche. The most famous attraction here is the palm grove, said to be Europe’s largest palm forest. These areas around Alicante and islands near Alicante are already listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through the grove is particularly refreshing, making summer the best time to visit. Entrance costs around 5 euros. I recommend going in the morning when it’s less crowded and better for photos.
Guadalest Mountain Village
This village is located in the inland mountains, about an hour’s drive away. The town is quite small and can be explored in half a day, but the scenery is truly spectacular. From the castle ruins, you can see the reservoir below, which looks especially magnificent in good weather. The town has several restaurants with prices cheaper than coastal areas, and the roasted lamb is excellent. For parking, there’s a free lot outside the town, about a 10-minute walk in.
| Attraction | Distance from Alicante | Suggested Duration | Admission |
|---|
| Elche Palm Grove | 23km | 2-3 hours | 5 euros |
| Guadalest | 60km | Half day | Free |
| Altea Old Town | 50km | 2-3 hours | Free |
Altea Old Town
This seaside town’s old quarter sits on a hillside, with white houses and a blue-domed church creating a Mediterranean atmosphere. I previously thought it was just an ordinary coastal town, but discovered the old town has real character. The alleyways are filled with artists’ studios and small shops, perfect for leisurely exploration. The church plaza offers great views of the entire bay.
Practical Tips
All these places around Alicante are best suited for self-driving as public transport isn’t convenient. Guadalest has many mountain roads, so drive carefully. If going in summer, remember to bring water and sunscreen. Mountain areas have significant temperature differences, so bring a jacket. Both Elche and Altea have good restaurants where you can plan lunch. Weekends get crowded, so weekdays offer a better experience.
If anyone has visited these places, feel free to share your experiences. Or if you have other recommendations for nearby attractions, please leave a comment—I’m looking for new places to explore this weekend.
