A perfect base to explore the region
Penáguila is strategically located in the centre of the Comtat region, making it the ideal starting point to discover the most emblematic villages of inland Alicante. In less than 40 minutes by car you can go from the tranquillity of a mountain village to the bustle of the Costa Blanca.
Cocentaina
15 km · 20 minMedieval village with a castle of the Counts of Cocentaina, declared a Site of Cultural Interest. Its old town preserves cobbled streets, arcaded squares and the famous Plaza de Dalt. But the most outstanding feature is its <strong>weekly market</strong>, the oldest in the Valencian Community with over 700 years of history: every Monday, more than 300 stalls fill the streets of the centre.
- Medieval castle
- Monday market (700+ years)
- Plaza de Dalt
- Archaeological Museum
Alcoy / Alcoi
20 km · 25 minIndustrial city with exceptional architectural heritage. Alcoy is known for its <strong>Valencian modernism</strong>, with buildings such as the Town Hall, the Pont de Sant Jordi (iron bridge over the Riquer river) and the Glorieta Park. Its <strong>Moors and Christians</strong> festivals (22-24 April) are the most famous in Spain, declared of International Tourist Interest.
- Pont de Sant Jordi
- Modernist old town
- Camil Visedo Museum
- Moors and Christians (April)
El Castell de Guadalest
25 km · 35 minThe most visited village in inland Alicante. Perched on a rocky crag, its 11th-century castle is accessed through a tunnel carved into the stone. The <strong>Guadalest reservoir</strong>, with turquoise waters, surrounds the village creating a postcard landscape. The offer of themed museums (miniatures, salt shakers, classic cars) is surprising for a village of barely 200 inhabitants.
- 11th-century castle
- Guadalest reservoir
- Themed museums
- Castle viewpoint
Benidorm and the Costa Blanca
40 km · 40 minJust 40 minutes from Penáguila, Benidorm offers the perfect contrast between mountains and beach. Ideal for those who want to <strong>combine days of nature with sun and sand</strong>. From the coves of Altea to the old town of Villajoyosa (famous for its colourful houses), the Alicante coast has much to offer besides Benidorm's beaches.
- Benidorm beaches
- Altea old town
- Villajoyosa (colourful houses)
- Tabarca Island (excursion)
Juan's tip: If you come on a Monday, don't miss the Cocentaina market. It is an authentic experience: local products, genuine atmosphere and the history of 700 years that you can feel at every stall.
Suggested route: 3 days in the region
If you have three full days, we propose this itinerary:
- Day 1: Penáguila (Jardín de Santos, Castle, Aladrach Ravine) + lunch at Ca Marieta.
- Day 2: Cocentaina in the morning (market + castle) + Guadalest in the afternoon (reservoir + viewpoints).
- Day 3: Alcoy (modernism + Pont de Sant Jordi) or Benidorm (beach + Altea old town).
Your base to explore the area
Casa Inés is in the centre of Penáguila, within easy reach of all these villages.
Frequently asked questions about nearby villages
We answer the most common questions to organise your excursions.
- It depends on your pace. Cocentaina and Alcoy are 15-20 minutes away and can be visited in half a day. Guadalest requires more time (it is the most touristy and you need to book parking). If you have a full day, we recommend Cocentaina in the morning and Guadalest in the afternoon.
- If you come from the coast, you probably already know Benidorm. But if you are looking for a beach, it is only 40 minutes away. The most recommended thing is to combine: one day of mountain and hiking, and another of beach. Benidorm, Altea and Villajoyosa are all in the same coastal area.
- Every Monday morning, in the old town. It is the oldest weekly market in the Valencian Community, with over 700 years of history. More than 300 stalls of food, clothing, crafts and local products.
- There is no direct public transport from Penáguila to Guadalest. The most convenient way is by car. From Penáguila it takes about 35 minutes. In high season, we recommend arriving early because the car park fills up quickly.