Polop
Visitors to Benidorm looking for a day out to enjoy some sightseeing really do have an excellent choice of places to visit that includes the picturesque village of Polop. The village dates back to the 10th century when it was occupied by the Moors and a fortress was built and named Polop. It went on to become the Barony of Polop in the 13th century and was granted to the Fajardo de Mendoza family by King John II of Aragon in the 15th century. To this day it is still referred to as the Barony of Polop.
Situated about a 20 minute drive inland from Benidorm on the CV-70, the village enjoys a hilltop position amongst the surrounding mountains and is dominated by its castle. It is quite a steep climb to the castle but visitors are rewarded with some fantastic views, and of course the chance to explore this ancient Moorish fortress. The village itself is very pretty and kept spotlessly clean, with colourful pot plants adorning the wrought iron balconies along its narrow alleyways.
Places Of Interest
Other places of interest include St Peter's Church that was built in the early 18th century and has high vaulted ceilings, grand archways and intricately decorated walls and pillars. The beautiful Los Chorros Square is a focal point for visitors and its horseshoe shaped stone walls are adorned with 221 natural spring fountains, creating a symphony of sound. The spring water is said to have curative properties and people come from miles around to drink and take home bottles of this magic elixir. From the square there are lovely views of the countryside and mountains, and many visitors stop here for refreshments and a taste of the local bakery's cakes and pastries. Just a few kilometres away from Polop is the majestic Guadalest Valley and its village, the most visited village in Spain.