Micro-Gigantic Museum

Open every day, this museum shows the smallest and the largest. The smallest exhibits, you inspect through a magnifying glass. Look for the bible written on a hair and the flea riding a bicycle on a seed.

The Jail (Gaol)

This 12th century prison (no longer in use) is located on the lower floor of the Town Hall and is carved out of solid rock. You can look inside the original prison. There are a couple of small rooms. Entry is free.

You can find the Town Hall at the top of the town, in the main square.

The church of Asuncion

This church is over 400 years old and is the most important church in the valley. Built between 1734 and 1753, this church stands on the site of a former temple. The current church was remodelled in 1962. Prior to this there was a dome. The church has a simple and plain interior with a plain altar. The church is open to visit every day.

Tower Cragg of Alcala

The Penon de la Alcala (rock) is a tall peak on which a round tower stands. Only the base of the tower remains today. It was built to defend the valley and is almost inaccessible. This tower has become one of the main symbols of Guadalest.

The Castle of L'Alcozaiba (San Jose)

Built in the 11th century by the Muslims. There is very little of the castle left now but what remains can be seen high on a cliff, towering over the old village. The earthquake of 1644 destroyed much of the castle.

The reservoir in Guadalest

The reservoir provides a host of activities including a boat trip on a solar powered boat. Trips cost around €5 per person. The trip that lasts 50 minutes sets off on the hour between 11am and 6pm.

Getting to and around Guadalest

The roads to Guadalest are winding, mountain roads that should be navigated with care. On arrival in the small town, there are two main car parks. The first, at the top of the town and next to the main road is small and you have to pay the attendant. This is on Avenida de Alicante. If you turn right and head down the steep hill (follow the P sign), you will find a new, large car park that is free. There's a steep walk up the new steps to the main square. The main square has an excellent sunny cafe and a few gift shops. A further flight of steps leads to the castle, church and views of the reservoir.

Idealspains' visit and opinions

We visited Guadalest in March 2011. Our first call was at the tourist office where we received a frosty, unhelpful reception. The office had run out of town guides in English and the receptionist couldn't be bothered to offer alternatives until we asked.

We were disappointed with Guadalest. It wasn't as good as we expected. It was quaint but tourism was milked to the full. Everything had a price. It would cost a small fortune to see all the museums, castle etc and the tourist office got us off on the wrong foot.