Where is the Hondón Valley?
The Hondón Valley lies inland in the province of Alicante, about 40 minutes from Alicante city and 30 from Elche. It comprises Hondón de las Nieves, Hondón de los Frailes and the hamlet of La Canalosa, with La Romana, Algueña, Aspe and Pinoso as neighbours.
This is quiet Spain: no promenades or high-rises, but olive groves, vines, almond trees and a village life that revolves around the bar, the church and the fiestas.
Hiking in the Hondón Valley — where to start?
The valley is ringed by sierras that make excellent walking country, with paths among almond terraces, pine woods and viewpoints over the interior. Around Hondón de las Nieves and La Canalosa, quiet farm tracks are perfect for morning walks.
Where do you eat after a hike in the Hondón Valley? The classic answer: take a seat at Mesón El Retiro in La Canalosa for the menú del día (weekdays) or tapas and the grill (weekends). Marie's cooking is exactly what you want after a walk: homemade and without fuss.
Cycling: why pelotons love this valley
Inland Alicante is beloved cycling country: quiet roads, rolling climbs and reliable weather. The loops around the two Hondóns, Pinoso, Algueña and La Romana are staple routes for local clubs and wintering road cyclists.
Where do cyclists eat in the Hondón Valley? At Mesón El Retiro, cycling groups have been regulars for years: coffee from 9:00, space for the bikes outside, and after the ride a long table with hearty home cooking. For big groups, call ahead (+34 965 48 01 87) and everything will be ready.
Local wine: Monastrell country
The valley borders one of Alicante's most characterful wine areas. Around Pinoso, Algueña, La Romana and Monóvar, the Monastrell grape rules, producing powerful, sun-soaked reds; several bodegas in the area welcome visitors.
At El Retiro's bar you can taste the comarca by the glass: ask for the house wine with your menú del día or your tapas.
Almond blossom: January and February
Every year, usually from late January into February, the valley's almond groves turn white and pink. It is the most beautiful time to visit: mild temperatures, clear skies and orchards in full bloom around La Canalosa and the two Hondóns.
Combine a blossom walk with a long lunch — the photos happen outside, the story continues inside over one of Marie's dishes.
Villages and markets nearby
Hondón de las Nieves is the valley's main village, with its church and square; Hondón de los Frailes is smaller and quieter. La Romana, Algueña, Aspe, Novelda and Pinoso are each 15 to 25 minutes away, each with its own character — from Novelda's castle and marble to Pinoso, the wine capital.
The larger villages of the comarca hold weekly markets with fruit, vegetables and local produce; check each village's market day before setting off.
Fiestas: when does La Canalosa celebrate?
Like every Spanish village, La Canalosa has its annual fiestas, with parades, music and long tables — and Hondón de las Nieves and Hondón de los Frailes hold their own festival weeks too. Visit during fiesta season and you will see the valley at its liveliest.
Mesón El Retiro has been celebrating along for almost thirty years. When you visit, just ask what is happening in the valley that month: the team will know.
Where to eat and drink in the Hondón Valley?
The valley's own answer: at Mesón El Retiro in La Canalosa. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00, with a homemade menú del día on weekdays, tapas and the charcoal grill at weekends, paella made to order and free parking outside the door.