All about La Nucia - Travel Guide
All About La Nucia – Travel Guide ✨
If you’re looking for a destination that blends history, nature, and authentic Spanish charm, then this guide has everything you need to know all about La Nucia.
Just 10 km from the bustling beaches of Benidorm, La Nucia offers a slower pace of life, beautiful viewpoints, traditional festivals, and plenty of outdoor activities. From its historic hermitages and lively markets to its famous sports centre and scenic trails, La Nucia is the perfect spot for a day trip or a longer stay. 🌿
The name La Nucía comes from the Arabic word Naziha (“delicious”). It was given by King James I of Aragon to Beltran de Bellpuig. In 1705, La Nuía gained independence from the barony of Polop and became its own municipality.
Today, La Nucía overlooks fields of fruits and vegetables and has become a popular home for expats thanks to its proximity to the coast.
Popular residential areas include Barronco Hondo, Colloma, Bello Horizonte, and El Tossal.
Accommodation is limited in town, but nearby Altea and Benidorm offer a wider range of hotels and rentals.
Things to Do in La Nucía
Explore the Old Town
The historic center features different architectural styles, with Gothic buildings, the Hermitage of San Vicente Ferrer, the Purísima Concepción Parish, and the magnificent Library Building.
Stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional houses decorated with colourful plants.
The Plaza Mayor is the lively main square, home to the 18th-century Immaculate Conception Church and the beautifully restored Town Hall. Around the square, enjoy terrace cafés — perfect for a cold drink and tapas in summer, or hot chocolate with churros in winter.
Immaculate Conception Church
Nearby, the Avenida Portilla viewpoint and Plaza de los Músicos are also worth a visit.
Hermitage of San Rafael 🌿
The Hermitage of San Rafael, also known as La Capelleta, is a historic chapel built in 1888 to replace an earlier temple. Surrounded by peaceful gardens with benches, it’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Calvari Cross on Mount Calvari 🌄
An easy, but steep walk takes you to the Calvari Cross, where you can enjoy sweeping views of La Nucía, the Mediterranean coast, Altea, its beaches, and the Ponoig mountain.
Font de la Favara 💧
Located on the CV-760 towards Altea, this green park features tall trees, picnic spots, a children’s play area, and a café. The highlight is its waterfall, forming a crystal-clear shallow pool.
Legend tells of Roxana, a governor’s daughter turned to stone by a priestess. Her tears created the waterfall, which has flowed for centuries and is said to carry magical powers.
Tossal del Captivador
This protected area of pine woods is perfect for walks and nature trails. Visit the Captivador Visitors Centre to learn about local history, traditions, and agriculture.
La Nucía Ecoparque Museum
A fascinating eco-center where more than 30 types of materials are recycled and repurposed. Open Monday–Saturday with varied hours.
Markets
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General Market – Mondays, at the Plaça-Auditori de Les Nits (Town Hall Square).
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Weekly Market & Rastro – Every Sunday at Pol. Ind. l'Alberca, 03530 La Nucia, Alicante, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. Make your way to the southern end of La Nucia and follow signs for Guadalest from roundabout “Rotunda 1.”
Festivals in La Nucía 🎉
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San Vicente Festival – After Easter, celebrated at El Captivador with dances, concerts, and barbecues.
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La Nucia Medieval Street Market - July (dates vary)
A popular 3-day event generally held in early July, there are craft stalls selling lots of handmade items, stilt walkers, jugglers and minstrels as well as medieval table games and a merry-go-round. The fair is held in the narrow streets by the town hall and church.
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Virgen de la Asunción & San Roque (August 14–18) – The town’s biggest celebration with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
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Pobla Charter (July 9) – Commemorates La Nucía’s independence from Polop in 1705.
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Oktoberfest – Held at the La Nucía Sports Centre, one of the largest German beer festivals in the area.
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Feast of San Rafael (November) – Patron saint festivities marking the town’s independence.
Adventure & Sports
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Parque de Aventura – A treetop adventure park with ziplines, bridges, and circuits for all ages. Family tickets available.
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La Nucía Sports Centre – Known as the “Sports Capital of the Costa Blanca,” this huge complex includes an Olympic stadium, FIFA-standard football fields, Olympic pools, gyms, and much more.
Walking Routes
Try the Triptych Trail, a 20.5 km green route linking the sports city, El Captivador, El Tossal del Calvari, and the old town — perfect for hiking and cycling.
Getting to La Nucía from Benidorm
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By Car – 10 km (16 minutes) via the CV-70.
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By Bus – ALSA (every 2 hours, approx. 25 mins, €3), or Llorente Bus (lines 16, 18, 52, 53).
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By Taxi – €13–16 each way.
FAQs – All About La Nucía
Is La Nucía worth visiting?
Yes! La Nucía combines history, culture, nature, and sports. From the Hermitage of San Rafael to the Font de la Favara waterfall, it’s full of hidden gems just minutes from Benidorm.
What is La Nucía known for?
La Nucía is famous for its sports centre, lively festivals, beautiful nature trails, and its peaceful old town. It’s also a popular residential area for expats.
How far is La Nucía from Benidorm?
Only 10 km (about 16 minutes by car). Buses and taxis make it an easy day trip from Benidorm.
When is the best time to visit La Nucía?
Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities, while August and November are perfect if you want to enjoy La Nucía’s biggest festivals.
Are there markets in La Nucía?
Yes, the general market runs every Monday, and the weekly market and rastro take place on Sundays. Both are great for fresh produce, clothing, and local finds.
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