Hey Lykkers! Ready to fall in love with a town that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a medieval dream? Welcome to Bocairent, a stunning village tucked into the side of a mountain in Valencia, Spain. With winding cobbled streets, cave dwellings, and centuries-old charm, Bocairent is a perfect off-the-beaten-path escape.
Let’s explore how to get there, what it’ll cost (don’t worry—it's budget-friendly, though costs may vary), and the 8 unforgettable places you absolutely have to visit.
Getting to Bocairent
Bocairent isn’t hard to reach, but it feels a world away.
- From Valencia Airport (VLC) or Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC): Drive about 1.5 to 2 hours through stunning mountain roads and rural countryside.
- Car rental: $40–$70 USD/day (cost may vary)
- Public Transport: Take a train to Ontinyent, the nearest town, then a bus or short taxi ride to Bocairent.
- Train + bus fare: $12–$20 USD (cost may vary)
8 Must-Visit Places in Bocairent
1. Covetes dels Moros (The Moorish Caves)
This cliffside honeycomb of over 50 window-like caves is one of Bocairent’s most iconic sights. Thought to be built between the 10th and 11th centuries, they were possibly used by the Moors as storage rooms or even as lookout points. The fun part? You have to climb and crawl through small holes to get from one cave to another—like real-life cave explorers. It’s adventurous, mysterious, and totally unforgettable.
Entry fee: $4.61 USD (cost may vary)
2. Casco Antiguo (Historic Old Town)
Prepare to be enchanted. The Old Town of Bocairent is a beautiful maze of narrow cobblestone alleys, flower-filled balconies, hidden plazas, and stone stairways that twist and climb up the hillside. Every corner offers a postcard-worthy view. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a movie set from medieval times. Don’t miss golden hour—it lights up the stone walls like magic.
3. Plaça de Bous (Rock-Carved Bullring)
Dating back to 1843, this is Spain’s only bullring carved entirely into solid rock. Whether or not you’re into bullfighting, the sheer architectural feat is mind-blowing. Stand at the top and admire how it blends seamlessly with the mountain. Guided tours tell you all about its unique construction and cultural history. It's like stepping into a stone amphitheater from ancient times.
Entry fee: $2–$3 USD (cost may vary)
4. Ermita de Sant Jaume
This peaceful hermitage sits just outside the main village, offering panoramic views of the entire valley and the Sierra de Mariola. It’s quiet, serene, and often uncrowded—making it the perfect place to reflect or just relax after a day of exploring. The little white chapel is especially lovely at sunrise or sunset, and if you're into sketching or journaling, this spot is a dream.
5. Sant Blai Cave (Ancient Ice House)
Long before freezers existed, locals used these stone "ice caves" to store snow and ice from the mountains. Inside the Cava de Sant Blai, you’ll find a massive dome-shaped structure with a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century refrigeration methods. There’s something eerie and cool (literally!) about standing in a place that once stored the village’s precious ice.
Entry fee: $2.88 USD (cost may vary)
6. Sierra de Mariola Natural Park
If you love nature, bring your hiking shoes. This stunning park is packed with lush forests, wild herbs, rivers, and ancient ruins. Locals say the air here smells like rosemary and thyme—it’s true! There are trails for all levels, and the views from the ridgelines are breathtaking. In spring, wildflowers paint the mountains in color. You can even join herb walks or guided hikes.
Free entry (guided tours extra)
7. Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
Towering over the town, this 16th-century chapel features a dramatic bell tower and interiors filled with art and carved altarpieces. Climb the tower for 360° views of Bocairent and the surrounding hills—it’s absolutely worth the few euros and the stairs!
Entry + tower: $3 USD (cost may vary)
8. Museo Antonio Ferri
This cozy museum celebrates Bocairent’s artistic and historical soul. From traditional clothing and crafts to local legends, it's a compact yet enriching stop. It’s named after Antonio Ferri, a beloved local artist, and showcases both rotating exhibits and permanent collections. A great way to round out your understanding of this special village.
Entry fee: $2–$4 USD (cost may vary)
So Lykkers, if you're looking for history, adventure, and a big dose of charm in one walkable mountain village, Bocairent is calling your name. Let me know if you’d like a 2-day or 3-day sample itinerary—I’ve got ideas!
