Top 5 Castles around Balones

The region offers a glimpse into its rich past through several historical sites. You can visit the ruins of the Castillo de la Costurera, a fortress of Muslim origin with Christian reforms, offering panoramic views over the Seta Valley. Another significant site is Castell de Benissili, historically known as the castle of Alcalà, which features an albacar and celoquia, showcasing its extensive structural complexity and natural defenses.

Yes, there are excellent viewpoints. You can find Views of Perputxent Castle, which offers sight of a significant Muslim fortress that was a strategic point in historical resistance. Another popular spot is View of Cocentaina Castle, from where you can see the tower dominating the vibrant town of Cocentaina, nestled in the Alcoy River valley.

The best time to visit is generally during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). The weather is milder, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor ruins and enjoying the hiking trails to sites like the Castillo de la Costurera. Summers can be very hot, and winters, while mild, might have cooler temperatures for extended outdoor activities.

The mountainous landscape around Balones is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for running and mountain biking. For instance, there are several challenging running trails around Balones, including the 'Alt el Recingle' loop. If you prefer cycling, explore the MTB trails around Balones, such as the 'Vuelta a la Sierra de Almudaina' or the 'Cava Gran de Agres' loop.

While many castles are ruins requiring some walking, the View of Cocentaina Castle is considered family-friendly as it's a viewpoint from the town itself, making it accessible for a relaxed visit. Exploring the Castillo de la Costurera involves a hiking trail from Balones, which can be a fun family adventure for those who enjoy walking.

Given that many castles are ruins and often located on hilltops or require hiking to reach, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended. Dress in layers, especially during spring and autumn, as temperatures can vary. Don't forget sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, as many sites offer little shade.

The castles are set within a stunning natural environment. The Castillo de la Costurera, for example, offers extensive panoramic views over the Seta Valley and the surrounding mountainous landscape. The area is also known for its ancient olive groves, some over a thousand years old, which contribute to the region's unique cultural and gastronomic heritage.

Yes, the hiking trail from the village of Balones to the Castillo de la Costurera can be incorporated into a circular walk, allowing you to explore the historical site and enjoy the surrounding nature. For more structured routes, you can check the running or MTB guides for trails that pass by or offer views of historical points.

Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance and the commanding positions of these fortresses, which offer extensive panoramic views. The sense of exploring ancient ruins, imagining their strategic importance, and combining historical exploration with outdoor activity, such as hiking to the Castillo de la Costurera, are frequently highlighted.

For sites like the Castillo de la Costurera, you would typically park in the village of Balones and then take the hiking trail to the castle. For other viewpoints or castles, parking availability can vary. For Cocentaina Castle, if you go by bike, you'll need to leave it in the parking lot and walk up the narrow path.

The duration depends on the specific site. Visiting the ruins of the Castillo de la Costurera, including the hike from Balones, could take a couple of hours. For viewpoints like Views of Perputxent Castle or View of Cocentaina Castle, the visit itself might be shorter, but you might want to allocate more time to explore the surrounding areas or towns.

Beyond the well-known castles, you might find the Castillet interesting. It's described as a very curious private property with a castle-like construction and significant iron art, offering a unique, albeit different, historical and artistic experience.