Jijona: the town of turrón
- Driving time
- About 1 hour 10 minutes by car
- Area
- L'Alacantí
- Town
Jijona, Xixona in Valencian, is the town of turrón, Spain's almond nougat. It is about 1 hour 10 minutes by car from Lago Rosa Apartment.
Every Spaniard knows this name from the Christmas packaging. At the Museo del Turrón de Jijona you can see how turrón and marzipan are made, and the visit ends with a tour of the factory. That makes it an easy outing with children, and you will hardly leave empty-handed. Ask Tourist Info Xixona for current times. On 7 November the town marks the Día Mundial del Turrón, with activities for families.
The Horno del Raval deserves a stop too. This bakery, of Morisco origin and still working, is one of the oldest of its kind in the Comunitat Valenciana and makes pastas jijonencas, the local biscuits.
Then climb to the Torre Grossa, the Almohad-era castle that covers almost the whole hill. Below stands the Iglesia de la Asunción, with a bell tower topped with green and white tiles. The Iglesia de Santa María has the Virgin Mary beside King Jaume I above the entrance.
For walkers
The route to the top of the Migjorn is hard, with a climb of nearly 800 metres. The Cabeçó d'Or route passes Jijona, Relleu and Busot and ends at the Cuevas de Canelobre.
When to go
7 November is the Día Mundial del Turrón. Other days make for a quieter visit to the museum and town.
Frequently asked questions
What is turrón?
A Spanish sweet based on almonds, similar to nougat, eaten mainly at Christmas.
Can you visit a turrón factory in Jijona?
Yes, the visit to the Museo del Turrón ends with a tour of the factory.
What is the Torre Grossa?
Jijona's Almohad-era castle, on one of the highest points in town.
