Hidden away from the regular tourist trail, Novelda is around a 30-minute drive west of Alicante on the A-31.
While you might not imagine a small town a little way in land would hold much intrigue, there’s actually a surprising variety of things to see and do around here.
With unique features like the salt ponds of nearby valleys to stunning architectural marvels, you will be impressed by the beauty on offer.
If you’re staying in Alicante it is definitely worth making the journey down for a day trip. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Novelda.
Museum of Modernism
You might not be expecting the rather pretty modernist architecture that you will find in the centre of town. And beyond this there is even a Museum of Modernism for you to visit to get more of an insight into the history of the movement.
More correctly described as a converted house, the museum is set across three floors where you will find everything from murals and paintings to carved sculptures and modernist furniture.
Monastery of Santa Maria Magdalena
One of the major highlights of the town is the Monastery of Santa Maria Magdalena. You can pop in to enjoy the architecture or dine in a restaurant in the terrace and enjoy lovely views of the surrounding area if you have a little more time.
Designed by a disciple of the legendary Antoni Gaudi, the church possesses more than a passing resemblance to a downsized version of the famous Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
A little distance from the centre of town, this is a lovely example of Spanish art nouveau architecture that is relatively unusual around the Costa Blanca.
In a nod to the marble industry that has been very important for Novelda, the organ in the church utilises the rock in its design.
Castillo de la Mola
Found behind the Monastery is the castle of La Mola, which is another of the most impressive sights in the town.
The most memorable aspect of the castle is the triangular tower which is another aspect of quite unusual architecture.
The castle is most a ruin now, although it was designated an Asset of Cultural Interest back in 1931 and the government committed to its preservation.