Beniardá: Reservoir, Hiking and Cultural Heritage

Beniardá lies at the beginning of the reservoir formed by the river of the same name, the Guadalest. The mountainous terrain, the reservoir and traces of different historical periods in the townscape lend a stay here a variety of character. When looking for a hotel in Beniardá, you can decide whether to focus on hiking, views of the reservoir or cultural visits. Beniardá is also a stop on the De Alcoy a La Vila Joiosa route.

Hiking and views of the reservoir

The Ruta circular del embalse de Guadalest circular hike starts in Beniardá and runs parallel to the Guadalest Reservoir. It passes through pine forests and cultivated landscapes. Beniardá’s mountainous terrain is ideal for hiking; the circular route provides a specific starting point in the village. As route information may change, check the current route before setting out.

The Mirador del embalse offers a different perspective. It is on Calle San Francisco on the outskirts of Beniardá and offers views of the Guadalest Reservoir. The two options offer different experiences: the circular hike focuses on the route and changing landscapes, while the viewpoint is all about the reservoir. If you plan to visit the viewpoint, check access information beforehand, as details may change.

Townscape and historic buildings

Beniardá’s streets retain a layout dating from the Arab period, and some buildings preserve remains from that time. A small aqueduct marks the entrance to the town centre. The 16th-century church of Sant Joan Baptista is open to visitors. The Capella de Sant Joan features polychrome tiles dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, made by the ceramicist Francisco Tos in Manises (València). The chapel was restored in 2012.

An arch by the Capella de Sant Joan may have formed part of the original Muslim alquería; its exact age has not been determined. The Capella de Sant Francesc was built in an arch over a street. A remnant of the base of a medieval tower remains on Carrer de la Torre. Together with the washhouses, these buildings show that Beniardá’s cultural heritage includes not only religious buildings but also evidence of everyday life.

Font Vella, washhouses and crafts

The Font Vella recreation area has a children’s playground. If you would like to include a playground in your plans, check its current condition before visiting, as recreational facilities may change. Font Vella is also home to a traditional covered washhouse. Four water outlets supply it with water. Basseta Gadea is a former village washhouse that was recently uncovered and restored. The two washhouses have different features: at Font Vella, the covered structure and water outlets stand out, while at Basseta Gadea, the focus is on the uncovering and restoration of the former village washhouse.

Visitors can also browse stalls selling esparto-grass crafts in Beniardá.

Feria de Artesanía y productos típicos

The Feria de Artesanía y productos típicos takes place on the second weekend of May. The exact dates may vary, and the vendors selling typical regional food products and handicrafts also change. If you are planning your trip around the fair, check the date for the relevant year in advance.

Discover more destinations: El Ràfol d'Almúnia, Beniaia, Castalla, Puerto Marino, Casas del Señor, La Vall De Laguar, Orito, Bigastro.

For the broader travel overview: Alicante.