Castillo de Serrella

Castillo de Serrella, also known as Castillo de Qashtal or Castell de la Serrella, is a ruined hilltop fortress straddling the boundary between the municipalities of Beniardà and Castell de Castells, in the province of Alicante, Valencian Community, Spain.

How do you get there?

The fortress sits atop the rocky ridge of Penya del Castellet, at roughly 1,050 metres above sea level, in the Marina Alta region. Because of its steep, rocky setting, the ruins can only be reached on foot — hiking trails set out from both Beniardà and the neighbouring village of Castell de Castells. The final stretch crosses uneven rock, so sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

What will you see there?

The castle dates back to Muslim rule, built between the 9th and 10th centuries as a watchtower guarding the old route linking the Guadalest valley with the valley of Castell de Castells. The site is split into two distinct enclosures: a lower ward (albacar) on the Castell de Castells side, with surviving wall sections and a cistern, and an upper enclosure on the Beniardà side, set on a small plateau where a second cistern and a rectangular tower still stand.

Only fragments of walls, cisterns and the tower remain today — a common fate for the mountain strongholds of al-Andalus after centuries of abandonment and weathering. What draws visitors here is less the ruins themselves than the sweeping panorama over the Marina Alta mountains from such an exposed vantage point.

Following the Christian conquest, the fortress was taken by King Jaime I of Aragon in 1254. In 1290 it passed to Bernat de Sarrià, and it later came under the control of the Order of Calatrava.

When should you visit?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for the climb, since temperatures in the Marina Alta mountains are milder than in summer and the exposed trail is far less punishing. Setting out in the early morning is advisable to avoid the heat and leave more time to enjoy the views from the summit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drive up to the castle? No — the final approach up the rocky slopes of Penya del Castellet can only be done on foot.

How long does the hike take? There is no single fixed time, since the route depends on which trailhead you choose, Beniardà or Castell de Castells, and on your own pace — it is best to set aside a full morning for the outing.

Does the castle belong to Beniardà or Castell de Castells? The municipal boundary runs directly through the ruins — the lower enclosure lies within Castell de Castells and the upper one, with the tower, within Beniardà, which is why ownership between the two villages has long been disputed.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The Marina Alta region and the Guadalest valley, once watched over by this fortress, offer numerous hiking trails and viewpoints across the Serrella mountain range.