Guadalest, Benidorm's Cutest Cultural Excursion

Any culture-loving visitor to Benidorm will be enthralled by the nine enchanting museums in Guadalest. Each one individual and equally intriguing.

While most people travelling from Alicante to Benidorm are coming in search of its beaches, nightlife and full English breakfasts, the discerning traveller willing to dig a little deeper and travel a little further will discover that there is culture aplenty in this beautiful region of eastern Spain. Just a short journey inland, mountains begin to replace the golden coastline and you are greeted by quaint out-of-the-way villages and towns, some of which you may have spotted from afar on your transfer from Alicante to Benidorm. Guadalest has got to be one of the most charming, not only because of its stunning position nestled deep into the Sierra de Aitana but because of its plethora of attractions that include nine delightful museums; three of which are particular favourites of mine.

The Museum of Ribera Girona

After enjoying the pleasant drive up to the village, park your car in the quiet public car park and take a little time to admire the stunning reservoir below before making your way to the tiny Museum of Ribera Girona. This pretty little spot full of contemporary art and architectural offerings is accessed through an impressive Magic Garden that is decorated with figurines and watched over by the statuesque Castle of Guadalest. Open from 10am-8pm in summer and until 6pm in winter, this museum is a popular attraction in the village.

Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers

This quirky museum is also hugely intriguing, offering the visitor a chance to view the private salt and pepper shaker collection belonging to Belgian archaeologist Andrea Ludden. Housing around 20,000 exhibits sourced from all over the world, this enchanting little museum that has been organised into themes is an interesting spot to explore, and if you fancy starting your own collection, you can browse the souvenir shop at the front of the museum and buy a few salt and pepper sets of your own.

Museum Micro Gigante

Another fascinating find, the Museum Micro Gigante is famous for displaying miniature and gigantic sculptures in juxtaposition. One of the most unbelievable exhibits is the bullring that has been painted on a single grain of rice; simply mind blowing. Magnifying glasses are provided for viewing the miniatures. Conveniently open every day from 10am-8pm, you can be flexible when you visit this museum.

Guadalest is a tiny village and all of its nine museums are situated in close proximity. You can also explore the Doll’s House Museum, the Museum of Torture Instruments and the Museum of Manuel Ussa if you have time. And before you leave don’t forget to buy some homemade marmalade or local mountain honey to take home.

How To Get There

Most people travelling to the Costa Blanca region of Spain choose to arrive into Alicante Airport, and with so many regular and convenient flights arriving from the UK, it is easy to see why. Direct flights take only two and a half hours and on arrival, if you book with Shuttle Direct, you can rely on a convenient and professional transfer service from Alicante to Benidorm. Why juggle public transport for the Alicante to Benidorm leg of your trip when you can enjoy a stress free 45-minute journey in comfort and arrive at your hotel refreshed and ready to start your holiday?

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