Penella can be explored through three specific points of interest: Castillo de Penella, the hiking routes of the Serra Mariola and the patron saint festivities. The castle, trails and festival traditions each offer a different perspective on a stay. When planning, consider whether you would like to focus primarily on Penella’s history, a hike or the festivities. This focus can also help structure your search for a holiday apartment in Penella.

Castillo and Ermita: Historical Points of Interest

Castillo de Penella dates from the late 13th century and is legally protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monumento category. The date places the castle in its historical context; the Monumento category identifies its legal protection. Castillo stands on a limestone outcrop. Its north side has vertical walls, and it offers views of Alcoy and Cocentaina. The castle brings together historical and landscape perspectives. The Ermita de Sant Tomàs de Villanueva de Penella is also a historical point of interest; it dates from the 15th century and offers a different historical perspective.

Hiking: A Stage or a Circular Walk

Those planning to explore on foot can choose between a stage of the larger route network and a circular walk starting from Cocentaina. The Route of the Mariola Hermitages connects various hermitages in the municipalities of the Serra Mariola over more than 250 kilometres and can be completed in stages. Stage 4 of the Cocentaina route connects Poble Nou, the Ermita St Tomàs and Castell de Penella. A circular walk starting from Cocentaina, “Circular al Castell de Penella desde Cocentaina,” is 13.98 kilometres long and graded as moderate. It passes the Ermita de Sant Tomàs de Vilanova de Penella and Castell de Penella. After a short paved section, the route reaches the hamlet of Penella. The two route formats offer different options: a stage within a longer network and a single circular walk with a stated distance and difficulty level. Check current trail conditions before setting out, as they can change.

Patron Saint Festivities and Dance Tradition

Penella’s annual patron saint festivities are celebrated in honour of Sant Tomàs de Villanueva. “A ballar les danses” brings together numerous participants and spectators year after year. The festivities include a procession through the hamlet, a communal breakfast and games for children afterwards. The specific programme may vary from year to year. If you are travelling for the festivities, check the dates for your chosen year before setting your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: L'Atzúbia, Pilar De La Horadada, La Vall D'alcalà, Penàguila, La Vall d'Ebo, Monforte Del Cid, El Chaparral, Benitachell.

For the broader travel overview: Alicante.