All about Jalón, general & practical information

Getting to know Jalón/Xaló and its history

Did you know that…

• Jalón is known for its vineyards, that several bodegas can be found there and that is why it is a real wine village;

• the village has a real Moorish history? Its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and “riuraus”(raisin drying houses) are reminders of Moorish times;

• the village was repopulated by farmers from Mallorca after the expulsion of the Moors (in 1609), which you can still taste in the local Sobrasada (a spreadable sausage);
• this quiet village turns into a browsing paradise every Saturday during one of the Costa Blanca’s largest flea markets.

The history in brief

• Prehistory/Old Times: the history of Jalón dates back to the Bronze Age, as the fertile valley attracted people early on. The Romans used the valley for agriculture and viticulture;

• Moorish Period (to 13th century): the Moors had a great influence. They introduced new irrigation techniques and crops, such as oranges, and the architecture with narrow streets and buildings for drying raisins(riuraus) dates from this period;

• Christian Reconquest (13th century): in the 13th century, the Christians reconquered Jalón. The Iglesia de Santa María with its blue dome was built, on the site of a former mosque. For centuries Jalón was an important center for the production of wine and raisins;

• Present: despite the increase in tourism, the village has maintained its authentic character and position as an important agricultural center. Its mix of history and gastronomy makes it attractive to visitors.

The name “Xaló”

Xaló (Jalón) is originally a Valencian and Catalan name. It may come from the Latin word “gallonem,” meaning“big chicken” or“rooster.”

In the case of Jalón, the name could possibly be derived from older languages such as Iberian or Arabic, given the history of the Iberian Peninsula. The area has seen influences from different cultures over the centuries, including the Romans and the Moors, which explains the diversity in language and culture.

The economy & tourism in Jalón

Local employment

Although Jalón’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, modern employment rests on a unique blend of tradition and tourism. Viticulture and the production of local products (such as honey and almonds) at the Virgen de la Pobreza cooperative form the backbone and provide year-round employment for a significant portion of the local population.

The famous Saturday market, the Rastro, is a weekly highlight that benefits the entire village. Visitors who come for the market linger for the local gastronomy and stores, giving a big boost to the hospitality and retail industries.

In addition, Jalón has developed into a service hub for the surrounding villages in the valley. The presence of a growing international community of residents creates a constant demand for specialized services in construction, maintenance and business services.

Moreover, the recent opening of the Molí del Giner cultural complex in 2025/2026 has created new jobs in the cultural sector and heritage management, making employment less dependent on seasonality.

The development of the tourism industry

Xaló’s policy deliberately focuses on promoting the interior as an authentic counterpoint to the busy coast. Joan Miquel Garcés, mayor of Jalón, emphasizes the municipality’s direction:

“We are committed to a model that not only protects our cultural wealth and landscape, but also uses it as an engine for a sustainable future. Our strength lies in the combination of tradition and innovation.”

The focus is currently on strengthening bicycle tourism and hiking(cicloturismo), with Jalón acting as the gateway to the mountains of the Marina Alta. Significant investments are being made to modernize tourism infrastructure, such as restoring historical heritage (including the old water mills) and improving digital accessibility through the Smart Tourist Destination network of the Vall de Pop.

In addition, the municipality actively promotes events such as the Xaló Obert, focusing on gastronomy and crafts. This strategy should ensure that Jalón remains a vital year-round destination for the conscious and active traveler.

The geography & neighborhoods in Jalón

The location of Jalón

Jalón, also known as Xaló, is located in the heart of the Pop Valley in the north of the Costa Blanca. The village is inland and surrounded by the Bernia Mountains and extensive vineyards.

The landscape of the Jalón Valley is green and hilly, contrasting with the nearby coastal towns. Its central position in the valley makes it an important hub for surrounding villages such as Llíber and Alcalalí.

The accessibility of Jalón

Accessibility to the village is good thanks to its connection to the AP-7 freeway and the N-332 coastal road. Travel time from Alicante airport is about 75 minutes, while Valencia airport is over an hour away.

You reach the valley via well-maintained roads that wind through the mountain landscape. The most practical way to reach the village is by car via the Benissa exit on the AP-7.

In addition, local buses connect the valley to coastal towns such as Dénia. For cyclists, the region is also easily accessible via challenging routes over mountain passes such as the Coll de Rates.

Map Jalón Spain

The neighborhoods in Jalón

The village of Jalón (Xaló) is relatively small and does not really have defined neighborhoods as you would find in larger cities. Instead, it consists of several neighborhoods and scattered residential areas in and around the center.

The climate & nature in Jalón

A Mediterranean climate

Jalón has a wonderful Mediterranean climate with mild, sunny winters and warm, dry summers. Rainfall is relatively infrequent, especially in the summer months of July and August. You are most likely to have showers in the spring and fall, but generally the showers are short and heavy.

The weather, the average temperature

Below is a table of average temperatures in Jalón by month:

Nature around Jalón

Jalón is located in Vall de Pop, a valley characterized by rich agriculture and mountainous landscapes:

• Sierra de Bèrnia y Ferrer protected landscape: this is an important protected landscape that surrounds Jalón. The rugged mountain range is popular with hikers and offers fantastic views of the valley and coastline;

• Vineyards and orchards: the landscape is dominated by extensive vineyards, olive groves, almond trees and citrus trees. These not only form a beautiful Mediterranean landscape, but also provide the basis for delicious local products such as wine and honey;

• TheGorgos River : this (often dry) river runs right through the valley. Along its banks are hiking trails that pass through orange plantations;

• The natural park Montgó (Parque Natural del Montgó): (approx. 25 min drive) This natural park is the closest and is formed by the Montgó massif that separates the valley from the coastline of Dénia. It is known for its rich biodiversity and unique microclimate;

• The natural park Marjal de Pego-Oliva: (approx. 30-40 min drive) this vast marshland lies to the north of the valley. Characterized by rice fields and canals, it is a crucial nesting area and migration stopover for water birds.

The gastronomy of Jalón

Culinary venues

Most eateries in this region are located in the village center or along the connecting roads through the valley:

• The village square and surrounding streets: authentic bars and restaurants where locals gather for breakfast or lunch;

• The larger restaurants along the road to Alcalalí: venues specializing in elaborate Sunday lunches and traditional meat dishes;

• Local bodegas: tasting rooms where you can directly taste the wines and local products from the valley.

Flavor profiles and specialties

The menu in the Jalón Valley is characterized by hearty fare and the use of homegrown ingredients:

• Wine production: the region is famous for the Moscatel grape and the production of red wines, white wines and the sweet Mistela;

• Meat dishes and stews: Specialties such as lamb from the oven and dishes prepared with game or rabbit;

• Honey and almonds: the valley is full of almond trees, which is reflected in local sweets and desserts;

• Embutidos: artisanal meats such as blood sausage(morcilla) and dried sausages made according to an old recipe.

Restaurants in Jalón

Although Jalón has a quieter character than the coastal towns, it offers a quality range of catering services. You can count on honest cuisine with competitive prices here. On weekends, the restaurants attract many visitors who combine the famous Saturday market with a sumptuous meal.

The facilities in Jalón

Supermarkets in Jalón

Facilities in the Jalón Valley cater to both locals and international residents who reside here:

• Supermercado Masymas: a large, modern supermarket on the outskirts of the village with a wide range of fresh produce and international items;

• Local specialty stores: artisan butchers and bakers in the village center for fresh local produce;

• The Saturday market (Rastro): a weekly market that offers many local vegetables, fruits and olive oil directly from the farmer in addition to antiques;

• Virgen de la Pobreza Wine Cooperative: the central place to purchase locally produced wines, honey and other delicacies from the Marina Alta region.

Parking in Jalón

Parking in the Jalón Valley is generally accessible and free of charge:

• Parking lot by the river (Avenida de Joanot Martorell): a large unpaved parking lot where you can park for free within walking distance of the center;

• Street parking: several parking spaces are available along the main roads through the village;

• Accessibility during the market: on Saturday the center is busier due to the antique market, but additional parking is available in the adjacent fields.

Tourist office in Jalón

For more information and questions about Jalón, visit the tourist office for Vall de Pop. This information point is located near the letter monument of Jalón.

• Google Maps location
• Telephone number: +34 966 480 522
• Website: valldepop.es
• Opening hours:
  • Tuesday through Saturday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m;
  • Sunday & Monday: closed.

3. Jalón/Xaló visits, flight & accommodation

By plane to the Jalón Valley

Want to go on vacation to the Jalón Valley? Then there are two airports that serve as a base:

• Alicante-Elche (ALC): this is the most frequently used airport, about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Jalón.
• Valencia (VLC): A good alternative, about 1 hour and 20 minutes away.

There are direct flights to both airports from various airports in the Netherlands and Belgium. From the airport, a (rental) car is essential to reach and explore Jalón and the surrounding valley.

A vacation in Jalón: who is it for?

An authentic wine village, Jalón offers a completely different experience from the busy coast. It is the perfect destination for:

• Tranquility seekers and lovers of authentic Spain: here you will escape the crowds and experience the rhythm of a traditional Spanish village, surrounded by nature and agriculture;

• Wine lovers and foodies: Jalón is the heart of local wine production(Moscatel). With several bodegas for tastings, a famous Saturday market and excellent restaurants, this is a top destination for the culinary traveler;

• An inland base: Jalón is perfectly located to discover other charming villages in the Marina Alta, such as Llíber and Alcalalí.

Vacation accommodation in Jalón

The accommodations in Jalón and its surroundings focus on tranquility, space and authenticity, rather than large-scale tourism.

• Fincas and casas rurales: this is the most popular option. In the valley you will find numerous beautifully renovated country houses and farmhouses, often with private pools and lots of privacy;

• Boutique hotels and B&Bs: in the village itself and its immediate surroundings are several charming, small-scale hotels and bed & breakfasts, often in historically restored buildings;

• Vacation homes and villas: there is a wide range of detached vacation homes and villas, ideal for families or groups looking for comfort and a place of their own.

All the tips for your visit to Jalón

Additional information about Jalón

Question & answer (FAQ)

Handy links

• Visit Jalón (Tourist information)
• Jalón Wikipedia (General information)
• Spain.info Jalón (Tourist information)

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