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Perhaps by now you’re fed up with all those selfies on crowded beaches and you’re in the mood for something a little different. Sure, a summer dip is a must, but there are other super interesting alternatives, especially in Alicante.

We’re talking about none other than Forna Castle. It’s true that you won’t find Wi-Fi coverage here, but instead, you’ll connect your soul with the more than 800 years of history that this fortification beholds.

Imagine this: a medieval fortress that seems straight out of Game of Thrones, perched atop a promontory as if it were the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post.

The best part? You only need a 20-minute climb (ideal for burning off last night’s paella) and you’ll reach a viewpoint that will make your relatives die of envy when you show them your travel photos. Medieval “graffiti” that is pure art, towers that defy gravity, and a dreamy village with less than 100 inhabitants is what awaits you in Forna.

At On Travel, we want to help you discover everything about this fantastic cultural visit. So that’s what you can expect next: an overview of the Castle’s history, how to get there, and some plans to make nearby. Take good notes!

Discover the fascinating history of Forna Castle

Forna Castle, located in Alicante, is an impressive medieval fortress whose origins date back to the 13th century, although its current structure mainly corresponds to the 14th and 15th centuries.

One of the most important things, and what gives it most of its identity, is that it was initially built on an old Arab watchtower and was transformed into a manor house by the Cruïlles family after the conquest of James I.

Forna Castle holds a unique history for lovers of Valencian civil Gothic, so if you like that era and its architecture, it will be a real treat for you. The truth is that it presents a unique architecture, with independent towers and a central courtyard, so it’s no wonder that it has become a highly appreciated historical symbol for both tourists and the inhabitants of the province.

People love its history for the mix of mystery, art, and feudal legacy, in addition to offering impressive views of the coastline, which causes thousands of tourists to come and fill their phone’s camera roll with quality panoramic photos.

The only “downside” is that, currently, its interior is closed for restoration, but its opening in 2026 promises to revive all its splendor and attract numerous tourists.

Here's how to get to Forna Castle

To reach Forna Castle, we recommend parking at the Xiringuito de Forna, located next to the castle, and from there, walk up for about 15-20 minutes along a dirt path with low mountain vegetation until you reach your destination.

The path is quite accessible for all types of people and allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the landscape as you climb.

You can also reach it by car from Alicante in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering about 99 km. And if you don’t have a car, don’t worry, as you have options by bus or taxi combined with tram. Although they are a bit slower, indeed.

As you can see, there are several ways to reach this castle which is a true emblem of Valencian Gothic. Want to know what else you can do around here? See you in the next section.

What to see near Forna Castle?

As we mentioned before, Forna Castle is one of the most interesting destinations to visit in Alicante. But why exactly?

Well, apart from its imposing architecture, it’s a place at high altitude from which you can have spectacular views of the valley, the village of Forna, and the Oliva coastline. This is a perfect viewpoint to appreciate the connection between La Safor, Marina Alta, and El Comtat.

Speaking of its nearest village, Forna, in Alicante, is a charming rural site with less than 100 inhabitants, located at the foot of the castle. It’s also well-known for its traditional houses decorated with flowers, which convey peace and the identity of the place.

It forms a complex with the neighboring town of L’Atzúbia, where you can visit the Church of San Bernardo Abad and enjoy hiking routes and recreational areas like Tossal del Llop, perfect for a good picnic and some outdoor activities with family or friends.

In the surroundings, there are also other points of interest such as the Canelobre Cave, the Pego-Oliva Marsh Natural Park, and nearby castles like the one in Benirrama, which will surely enrich your visit.

Why should you visit Forna Castle?

Nothing you don’t already know by now. It’s well known that the Valencian Community is famous for its beautiful beaches and imposing castles. The experience of reconnecting with medieval history is a true privilege that can be enjoyed in this area more than in any other part of our country.

However, it’s of little use to visit amazing places if the accommodation you’re staying at isn’t up to par. At On Travel, we want to make your experience the best possible, and that’s why we offer you a wide variety of apartments in Oliva, Moraira, Jávea, Benissa, and Denia.