Planes

Planes is a tiny village located in El Comtat county in the province of Alicante. As soon as you step foot inside the municipality, you will be whisked back in time and enveloped in a captivating world of culture, legends and cuisine.

What to do in Planes

The best place to start your exploration of Planes is in the village itself. Though it may be small, it has plenty of artistry and culture to offer. The views from here are also incredible, affording vistas over Beniarrés reservoir, the valley and Sierra de Almudaina. 

One of the best places to discover Planes’ history is the castle. Castillo de Planes perches on the highest point in the village, some 472m above sea level. It paints a pretty picture with the local houses sitting so close to the fortress that they almost seem to be a part of the structure. Built in the Almohad period, the castle boasts a complex defence system including a chemise and bent entrance. An absolute must-visit during your time here. 

The next sight on your to-visit list should be Santa María church, the most historic in the municipality. The place of worship is formed of three naves separated by semi-circular arches with shrines on the side dedicated to different saints. The Eucharist nave is the oldest, dating back to the 14th century. 

Another monument connected to the history and culture of Planes is the aqueduct and Font Nova. Built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries, this water system is fed by Escaleta and Canyeret pools. The water is carried to just outside the village where it meets Font Nova spring, where the village wash house is located. 

Planes is also home to legends and nowhere more so than at Cruces de Término. It is said that wayside crosses were placed along the road here to protect walkers from the devil, which locals have seen here. The crosses also mark the point where the historic Christian villages began. 

Beyond history and culture, Planes also boasts spectacular landscapes. Hiking is an incredible way to enjoy the great outdoors with your friends or family while exploring the local land. La Encantada gorge is a particularly beautiful spot. You can take a circular route that will lead you to pools, waterfalls and crystalline rivers. Legend has it that every one hundred years a treasure appears here; the person who finds it can keep it. 

Can you imagine if it were you? What would you do if you found the treasure? One more reason – as if you needed it – to come and explore Planes.