Castillo de San José
An 11th-century fortress of Muslim origin that crowns the rocky outcrop at the highest point of the village, perched at around 587 m. The Torre del Homenaje (keep) and stretches of wall survive, badly damaged by the 1644 and 1748 earthquakes and by a 1708 explosion during the War of the Spanish Succession. It is reached through the Casa Orduña, and its terraces overlook the Aitana, Serrella and Xortà ranges and the turquoise reservoir.
At about 587 metres up, on the crag that closes the valley, the Castillo de San José is the outline that defines Guadalest. Muslims built it in the 11th century to watch the route between the coast and the inland Marina Baixa.
What still stands
The keep (Torre del Homenaje) and stretches of wall wedged into the rock survive from the original fortress. The rest was wrecked by two earthquakes, in 1644 and 1748, and by a gunpowder explosion in 1708 during the War of the Spanish Succession. Rather than a whole castle, what you visit today is a set of ruins leaning out over the drop.
The views
From its terraces you see the Aitana, Serrella and Xortà ranges and the turquoise water of the Guadalest reservoir at the foot of the valley. It is the highest spot a visitor can reach.
Getting up there
Access is not direct: you go in through the Casa Orduña, and there is an entrance fee. If you want more ideas for the area, the castle is a regular stop on day trips from Valencia.
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to San José Castle free?
No, there is a fee and access is through Casa Orduña. To check the price it is best to consult the official website.
What of the castle is still standing?
The keep (Torre del Homenaje) and stretches of wall set into the rock survive; the rest was ruined by the earthquakes of 1644 and 1748 and a gunpowder explosion in 1708, during the War of the Spanish Succession.
What can you see from San José Castle?
From its terraces, at around 587 m altitude, you can see the Aitana, Serrella and Xortà mountain ranges and the turquoise water of the reservoir at the bottom of the valley.
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