Castle of Aixa

Castle of Aixa is the ruin of a medieval fortress overlooking the Pop Valley, in the municipality of Xaló, in the province of Alicante. Also known as Castell de la Solana, it sits atop the Castellet de Aixa hill, at the highest point of Beniquesi, roughly 600 metres above sea level, between the villages of Llosa de Camacho and Jalón (Xaló). From this vantage point the entire Pop Valley unfolds below, making the ruins one of the more rewarding hiking destinations in the area.

How do you get to the castle?

The starting point is the inland town of Xaló (Jalón), located a short drive from the Costa Blanca coastline. From there, a walking trail leads up to Castellet de Aixa, crossing the valley's farmland — vineyards and almond groves typical of the Pop Valley — before climbing steeply toward the summit. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended, as the final stretch of the path becomes rocky and steep. Setting out early in the morning is a good idea, especially in summer, when the sun in this part of Spain heats up quickly.

What will you see there?

At the top of the hill, fragments of the old defensive walls and the outline of the former structure still remain, giving visitors a sense of the fortress's original scale. The ruins themselves are modest compared with some of the region's better-known castles, but their real value lies in the setting. From Castellet de Aixa you can take in the whole valley: a patchwork of cultivated fields, scattered white houses, and the mountain ranges that frame the Pop Valley. This is a destination for travellers seeking quiet, panoramic views rather than a heavily developed tourist site.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for the hike, offering mild temperatures and some of the valley's most scenic moments — almond blossom in late January and February, or the grape harvest in autumn. Summer heat can make the climb demanding, so an early start is advisable. Winter tends to bring quieter trails with fewer visitors, though it's worth checking weather conditions beforehand.

What should you know before visiting?

The ruins sit on open land with no ticket booth or on-site staff, meaning access is unrestricted but also that there are no facilities such as restrooms or food stalls. Bring water, particularly in warmer months, along with appropriate footwear. After the hike, a visit to Xaló itself is a natural next step — the town is known for its local bodegas and regional wine tastings, rounding out a day spent in the surrounding hills.

Frequently asked questions

Is the hike to Castle of Aixa difficult? No climbing skills are required, but the final stretch is steep and rocky, so sturdy hiking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the ruins are freely accessible, with no ticket booth or permanent staff on site.

How long does the visit take? The round trip, including time to take in the views, typically takes two to three hours depending on pace and fitness level.

Is it worth combining with other nearby attractions? Yes, Xaló and the wider Pop Valley are home to numerous vineyards and local bodegas, making a great complement to the hike, especially during the autumn grape harvest.