Novelda

Novelda - residential area in the middle of the stunning Vinalopó Valley.

From the incredible cathedral Santuario de Santa María Magdalena (Sanctuary of Santa María Magdalena) and Castillo de la Mola you have a great view over Novelda, the stunning Vinalopò Valley and the agricultural and residential areas around Novelda.

The Santuario de Santa María Magdalena and the Castillo de la Mola, which are very close to each other, are undoubtedly among the most important attractions in the province of Alicante. They stand out for their architectural and historical value, as well as their location. These landmarks have received increasing attention from both national and international tourists. The sanctuary and the castle are regularly mentioned in guides and articles about the top attractions in the province of Alicante. The Castillo de la Mola is now mostly a ruin, while the cathedral/sanctuary was only begun in 1918 and was completed in 1946. The building is inspired by Catalan modernism and has clear parallels to Gaudí's style, especially the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The design was drawn by the Novelda architect José Sala Sala , who was inspired by Antoni Gaudí and his modernist approach. The building has two tall towers reminiscent of Gaudí's work, but with his own unique interpretation. The sanctuary is dedicated to Santa María Magdalena, who is the patron saint of Novelda. Her feast day is celebrated every year in July with processions, masses and other religious activities. The cathedral/shrine has a unique pipe organ, designed to use marble instead of traditional materials. When completed, it will be one of the only organs in the world made of marble, reflecting Novelda as a marble exporter.

The housing market

Many properties in Novelda are historic houses with traditional Spanish architecture, often with unique details such as decorative tiles, wrought iron details and spacious courtyards. Due to its large area, Novelda can offer many rural properties including farms (fincas) with large plots, ideal for those who want a quieter life with the possibility of gardening or viticulture. In recent years, more modern villas and apartments have been developed with a focus on comfort, energy saving and style. Affordable prices compared to coastal areas. House prices in Novelda are generally a bit lower than in the more tourist-dominated coastal cities such as Alicante and Torrevieja. The town's strategic location, approximately 30 minutes from Alicante city and the airport, makes properties in Novelda an attractive choice for both permanent residents and investors. Knowing how construction is going on everywhere in the Alicante province, and that there are increasingly fewer plots available for development, Novelda can be a perfect area for a good investment for the future. The housing market in Novelda attracts both Spanish buyers and international investors, especially those looking to avoid the crowds of the coast. The town's quiet atmosphere and accessibility make it an attractive place for retirees and families seeking a safe and peaceful lifestyle. The town's location close to motorways and train connections makes it ideal for commuters and travellers. Novelda has good schools, medical services, shops and restaurants, making the town self-sufficient and convenient. It is not only the prices of housing that are more affordable here, but also the general costs of everything from shops to restaurants. After testing one of the good restaurants in Novelda - Botanico Novelda, we were very surprised by the price level.

Agricultural area with grape production

The Vinalopó Valley is one of the most important agricultural areas of Alicante, particularly known for the production of grapes (especially table grapes), pomegranates and olives. Novelda is also an international centre for marble exports, with a large number of quarries and processing facilities. Novelda is an area of wine production, although it is not the largest wine-producing district in the province of Alicante. They are more known for their quality than for their quantity. Wine production in Novelda has roots that date back to Roman times. The mild climate and calcareous soils make the area ideal for growing wine grapes. Monastrell grape: This is the most widely grown grape in the area and is mainly used to make powerful, flavourful red wines. In addition to red wines, Novelda is known for producing sweet dessert wines, often made from Moscatel grapes. Although Novelda does not have many large commercial wineries, there are several local wine fincas and vineyards in the area. These focus on small-scale production and authentic quality wines. Bodegas Casa Sicilia is one of the most well-known wineries in the area. This historic property combines traditional winemaking with modern methods. They produce a variety of wines, including red, white, and rosé. The estate also offers tours and wine tastings. We had a brief chat with the owner who welcomes everyone to his winery for a tour, tasting, and the opportunity to purchase directly from them or at their restaurant. Finca La Serrata is another winery with a focus on organic production and sustainable practices. They produce high-quality wines that reflect the terroir of the area.

The Vinalopó Valley is characterized by a semi-arid climate with spectacular mountains, fields and vineyards. The area has both flat landscapes and dramatic rock formations. The Vinalopó River, which gives its name to the valley, is an important lifeline for the region's agriculture, although it is now mostly a seasonal river. The region has a mild Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, ideal for agriculture. The region is rich in medieval castles, churches and traditional villages, reflecting its strategic importance throughout history. The Vinalopó Valley is known for its colorful festivals, including Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians), which are held in many of the towns. So, although Novelda is very rural, the town has a very exciting development.