Free walking tours in Xaló and what to see

Must-sees

Xaló, also known as Jalón, is a village in the Marina Alta, in the Vall de Pop, beside the Gorgos river and surrounded by vineyards and almond groves. Its old town keeps ceramic tile panels on the façades and centres on the Neoclassical parish church of Santa María, home to a revered image known as the Virgen Pobre. By the river stands the Baroque chapel of Santo Domingo, where every Saturday a very popular flea market of antiques and second-hand goods is held.

If you like walking, a route climbs to the ruins of Aixa castle, high in the hills, with views over the whole valley. Xaló is also a wine tourism destination: several wineries offer tastings, and a route through the riuraus recalls the tradition of drying grapes to make raisins.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Xaló, but you can book a guided visit of the village, covering the old town and its history, or a private tour if you prefer to go at your own pace. To round it off, winery visits with tastings are the classic activity in the valley. From the coast, especially from Dénia, Xàbia or Calp, some excursions combine Xaló with other inland villages.

How long to spend

The village takes an hour or two to see. If you are there on a Saturday, add the morning for the flea market and keep the afternoon for a winery visit. With a full day you can add the climb to Aixa castle. If you are staying in the area, use a second day to visit neighbouring villages of the Vall de Pop such as Alcalalí or Llíber.

Where to stay

In Xaló itself and the estates around it there are rural houses, holiday villas and the odd small hotel, a good choice if you want peace and quiet among the vineyards. The village centre lets you get around on foot and reach the flea market without a car. If you prefer more services or the beach, the Marina Alta coast, with Dénia, Xàbia or Calp, is a short drive away.