Jalón Valley – Almond Blossom & Vineyards

The Jalón Valley, Costa Blanca (Spain). 

The picturesque Jalón Valley lies just inland from the Costa Blanca, in the Marina Alta region, to the north of Alicante province. It makes up part of the Vall de Pop which follows the river Jálon from Benichembla in the mountains, through Murla and Parcent to Alcalalí, where the valley widens.

It’s here where you’ll find the picturesque market towns of Jalón and Llíber, and further away the historical town of Benissa. The Mediterranean coast, with a succession of scenic coves and marvellous beaches, is just a few miles away.

The contrast of scenery in this part of Spain is amazing; the encompassing mountains, sinuous ravines, the river flowing through Jalón , the valley covered with sweet vines, and an abrupt coastline of impressive cliffs and hidden coves on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Sleepy hamlets with whitewashed facades, the silhouette of church spires against the blue sky, grapevines on reddish soil, a spectacular display of pink almond blossom in the Spring, verdant pine groves, sweet smelling herbs and colourful wildflowers…

The Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times; you can still see the signs of rock paintings in the Manzano ravine, and the vestiges of Roman and Moorish settlements in the vicinity.

Jalón has an ideal climate; the summers are hot and sunny, the evenings warm and inviting, while winters are pleasantly mild. This climate favours the cultivation of grapevines, oranges, almonds and olives.

The wine-growing culture is evident wherever you go. Local bodegas produce wines and mistelas, the distinctive sweet wine the Jalón Valley is famous for. The Moscatell grape produces a wine that is renowned throughout Europe, and the world!

Jalón Old Town

Wander through the maze of narrow streets to the town square and take a look inside the pretty blue-domed church.

The local Wine Museum and the Ethnological Museum, which portrays how the people of Jálon lived in past centuries, are both worth a visit too.

On Saturday mornings, people come from miles around to browse the popular antiques and ‘rastro’ market which is held down by the shady riverbank in Jálon.

Jálon Farmer’s Market

Mercat de la Terra

The ‘Earth Market’ or market garden takes place in the morning on the first Saturday of the month, by the church square.

Home-grown ecological and traditional produce is on sale at the stalls… tomatoes, lettuce, herbs, vegetables, oranges, almonds, honey, eggs, wine, sausages, home-baked bread and pastries, basketwork…

Each month there’s also an interesting exhibition of local agriculture craft.

---

The Jalón Valley is a favourite place for a drive out for lunch at one of the traditional stone-walled restaurants.

Sit on a pretty terrace in warm weather and admire the breathtaking views across almond or olives groves, and the vineyards; in cooler weather enjoy your meal inside beside a roaring wood fire!

Try the local cuisine, cooked with fresh vegetables and herbs – favourites include roast lamb, rice dishes and typical hotpots – accompanied by the marvellous Jalón Valley wine.

Prices are reasonable, and many eateries offer all inclusive menus.

---

There are several walking routes around the valley; the most impressive to the ancient Fort high-up on the Sierra Bernia mountainside with panoramic views to the sea!

The mighty Sierra de Bernia rises up between Jalón and the town of Altea, effectively separating the Marina Alta and Marina Baja regions.

When driving from Benissa take the road to Jalón, and then the turning to Pinos, follow the road (14 kms) until it ends at Cases de Bernia.

You’ll find the different routes signposted here.

Alternatively, take the road up from Jalón town (12 kms).

---

Jalón’s privileged location, the peaceful valley so close to the Mediterranean coast, well connected to Valencia and Alicante cities, plus the remarkable climate, makes it the ideal place to live… many expats have chosen to relocate here; they appreciate the tranquillity, join in local activities and integrate into the village community, enjoy the pleasant way of life.

---

Fiestas in Jalón

Like all towns throughout Spain, Jalón enjoys its share of fiestas!

These include the popular ‘Romeria’ celebrations (April), when people continue the ancient custom of walking out to ‘El Fondo’ in the countryside, and then picnic on traditional savoury pastries. In the evening there’s dancing in the town square.

The main village fiestas (August), in honour of the town’s patron saint, are celebrated with bull running, a paella competition, floats parade, fireworks, dancing and partying till dawn.

The ‘Virgen Pobre’ holy festival (October) is an excuse for week long celebrations with processions, a giant paella, firework display, street dancing, etc.

---

Information from the local tourism office: Tourist Info Vall de Pop

How to Get to the Jalón Valley

Nearest airport: El Altet, Alicante (65kms);
By road: via A7 motorway or N-332

---