All about Rojales - Rojales situated in the La Vega Baja region 102 km from Benidorm, epitomizes the essence of a quintessential Spanish agricultural village, boasting the scenic River Segura meandering through its heart and showcasing traditional cave dwellings that encapsulate the rich history of the region.
Nestled inland from the sun-kissed coastal stretch of Guardamar del Segura, on the southern Costa Blanca, Rojales enjoys a prime location that seamlessly blends the allure of rural tranquility with proximity to the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Rojales extends beyond its quaint town center, encompassing several sought-after residential developments which are popular areas for many ex-pats.
Shopping & Dining: At the heart of Rojales, a vibrant array of shops awaits, boasting several top-notch supermarkets alongside an eclectic selection of restaurants, tapas bars, cozy cafes, and inviting pubs, including authentic English and Irish establishments. For added convenience, several banks are also conveniently situated within the town center.
Market: Experience the vibrant energy of Rojales on Thursday mornings as the weekly market springs to life beside the river in the town center. Locals and visitors alike flock to for fresh produce and seek out irresistible bargains amidst the bustling atmosphere.
Nightlife: Unleash your inner party spirit on the lively strip of discos nestled in Rojales, particularly near the Los Palacios area. Join the locals in letting loose on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, reveling in the vibrant nightlife that extends into the early hours.
Leisure: The River Segura winds through Rojales, offering a perfect setting for leisurely evenings spent mingling with locals who relish the warmth of summer nights outdoors.
Festivals: Another great reason to visit it, such as the interesting Festival of Nations, the San Isidro Pilgrimage or those of Nuestra Señora del Rosario. And they represent a good opportunity to try some local dishes such as arroz cocido con bolitas or sweets such as almojábenas or toñas.
Places to visit whilst in Rojales
Municipal Archaeological-Paleontological Museum: This museum is located in the old Town Hall, C / Plaza de España, 1.
It is a journey through time through the interior of Alicante with which adults and children will be able to learn about the evolution of the territory and the population of Rojales.
The museum is divided into two large areas, Paleontological, where you can find some of the vestiges that appeared in almost twenty small sites and fossils of marine mammals. and the Archaeological zone, where the cultural development of Rojales can be seen.
Opening Hours - Monday to Friday 09:00 to 15.00
All about Rojales
Rojales Bridge, Water wheel and Dam: - This set of bridge, water wheel and dam, along the banks of the Segura River, were built in different periods. The oldest of these elements is the weir or dam, from the 17th century. The bridge is from the 18th century and the wheel was finally installed in the 19th century.
They are relatively close to the center of the town and they have very specific functions, linked to the spectacular orchard that surrounds this place. In the case of the dam or weir, located downstream after the Charles III Bridge, its function was to regulate and direct the water through the waterwheel. The bridge connects two areas of Rojales separated by the river, which suffered from frequent and dangerous floods in the past.
All about Rojales Shell House, La Casa de las Conchas: Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer splendour of this one-of-a-kind attraction, boasting an impressive display of over 700,000 shells adorning its walls.
For nearly two decades, owner Manuel meticulously gathered shells from the pristine beaches of the Costa Blanca, adorning not only the façade of his home but also crafting sculptures and decorative artifacts to adorn every corner.
Today, the house is under the care of Manuel's son, José Manuel, who graciously welcomes visitors to experience this amazing masterpiece first-hand.
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Open daily from 10:00 to 15:00, admission to the Shell House is priced at 5€ per person, parking is available along Carrer Vilatona, 03170 Rojales, Alicante.
Rodeo Caves: These hold a rich history dating back to the 18th century when they were excavated by Murcian miners drawn to Rojales for agricultural opportunities. Over the years, these caves served as dwellings for generations of locals until the early 20th century. Today, they stand as a testament to Rojales' heritage, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the past.
Transformed into captivating studios and workshops by talented local artisans, the caves are open for exploration, free of charge, every Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 15:00. Location Cuevas del Rodeo, 4, 18, 03170 Rojales
On the first Sunday of each month from 10:30 to 15:00. enjoy the bohemian ambiance of the craft market browsing an array of unique artisanal creations, witness painting demonstrations, and even take part in hands-on art workshops. Afterward, unwind with a refreshing beverage as you soak in the delightful sounds of live music.
Rojales Windmill: The Windmill is one of the most interesting constructions of the pre-industrial architecture of Rojales. It is located on one of the elevated hills of Ladrillar Park to take advantage of the wind. The mill, built in the 18th century, was restored in 1998.
The renovated structure stands tall, surpassing a height of 10 meters, inclusive of both the tower cylinder and its hood. Internally, the building comprises three distinct sections:
The ground floor, known as the silo, once functioned as a storage area and now houses a kitchen. It also features the initial steps of a staircase that spirals within the circular structure, leading to higher levels.
The first floor, referred to as the chamber, houses equipment such as the flour cleaner and sieve.
Lastly, the second floor accommodates the wheat cleaning area before grinding, along with the remainder of the machinery.
All about Rojales
The Huerta Museum: The Huerta Museum is an eco-museum complex that is located in the center of the old Hacienda de Llanos , a large agricultural holding also known as Hacienda de D. Florencio.
With more than 30,000 m2 of land this working museum explains the reality of traditional work in the countryside based on the original property of the hacienda and the utensils that have been donated by the residents of the municipality, including traditional transport vehicles, household goods, horse equipment. , the cereal cycle and much more.
Located - Ctra. CV-920 (Rojales-Guardamar), Km. 18.5 - GPS : 38°06'14.4"N 0°42'59.8"W - 38.104009, -0.716600
Open - Monday to Friday 09:00 to 15:00
Whilst you are in this area, there are also three wonderful parks to visit - Rojales - El Recorral Park Situated on the outskirts of Ciudad Quesada, there is plenty of parking at C. Lugar Sector, 297, 275, 03170 Cdad. Quesada
Guardamar del Segura - Parque Reina Sofia, Avenida dels Pins 03140 Guardamar del Segura.
Torrevieja, La Mata - Parque del Molino del Agua (The Water Mill Park) - If coming by car the best place to leave your vehicle is just outside the park on Calle Morera, 1 Torrevieja.
Enjoy your time in Rojales and if you have found any other exciting places to visit comment below.
The Rodeo cave houses are just a few minutes walk from the shell house and well worth a visit, not all were open during the week, but still enough to get a good idea of what living in a cave house would be like, and great for a summer visit as they would feel nice and cool. The iron sculptures dotted around make a nice addition to the whole area.
Rojales itself is a lovely town, and we had a delicious menu del dia, bread, Salad, first course, second course, dessert and coffee for an amazing 12€ pp and in a great position just opposite the park with the famous bridge and water mill.
Sadly by the time we had done all the above the museums were closed, so another visit is on the cards in the near future.
All in all a lovely day out and well worth the drive from Benidorm. More ...