Santa Bárbara Castle, Alicante
- Driving time
- About 55 minutes by car
- Area
- Alicante
- Sight
The Castillo de Santa Bárbara is the great medieval fortress on Mount Benacantil above Alicante, and it is about a 55 minute drive from Lago Rosa Apartment.
From 166 metres up you can see the whole city: the harbour, El Postiguet beach, the roofs of the old quarter. The castle was designed as one of Spain's largest medieval fortresses and has been protected heritage since 1961. Legend has it that the name Alicante comes from the Arabic princess Cántara, and that the stone head of her father, the Moor's Head, lies under the castle.
Allow at least an hour, the castle itself says. You will not need a car at the top: you can be dropped off via Calle Vázquez de Mella, but parking on the grounds is not possible.
Up by lift
The lift is on Avenida Juan Bautista Lafora, opposite El Postiguet. The last ride up leaves 40 minutes before closing. For current times and fares, see castillodesantabarbara.com.
On foot or by minibus
Two walking routes of about half an hour start at the town hall and at El Postiguet. The minibus leaves from Puerta del Mar, among other stops.
Where to park
The nearest car parks are at Parque de la Ereta and the MARQ.
Our tip: a bike tour
To see the city in a different way, Baja Bikes runs cycling tours in Alicante. Eating afterwards? Book early at Voltereta Tanzania, which is more an experience than just a meal.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get up to Alicante castle?
By lift opposite El Postiguet beach, by minibus, on foot in about half an hour, or by taxi to the entrance.
How high is it?
On Mount Benacantil, about 166 metres above sea level.
Can you park there?
Not on the castle grounds. The nearest car parks are at Parque de la Ereta and the MARQ.
