From Benidorm: Jalon Valley and The Caves of Skulls Tour

A Scenic Day from Benidorm: Jalon Valley and The Caves of Skulls Tour

If you’re looking for a break from the busy beaches of Benidorm, this tour offers a thoughtful mix of natural beauty, history, and local charm. For around $28, you’ll spend about six to seven and a half hours exploring the award-winning wine region of Jalon, wandering through valleys lined with almond and orange trees, and discovering the mysterious Skulls Caves. It’s a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing, light adventure, and a taste of authentic Valencian countryside.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances different interests. You get a dose of culture—both through the wine tasting and the bustling market—plus a chance to see the caves, which are believed to be over 150 million years old. The second highlight is the opportunity to walk through Jalon’s picturesque valley, especially if you visit in February or March when the almond trees bloom, creating a stunning pink-and-white landscape. On the flip side, the tour’s duration and schedule might make it a bit tight for those seeking a more relaxed pace or for travelers with mobility issues. Still, for those who enjoy a packed day of sights and stories, it hits the spot.

One of the standout features, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guides—Charlotte, in particular, is praised for her friendly, informative approach. The coach ride is comfortable, and the itinerary is well-organized, making sure you see the highlights without feeling rushed. The market at Xalo (Jalon’s main town) is also a real treat, especially on Saturdays when it’s one of the oldest and largest car boot sales on the Costa Blanca. It’s a lively, treasure-hunting atmosphere that adds a bit of local flavor to the day. The caves themselves, called Cova del Rull or “Caves of the Skulls,” are a fascinating stop, with formations believed to be formed some 150 million years ago. Guides often share how traces of life dating back 50,000 years have been found there, which adds a dash of intrigue.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so you might want to plan your own meal either before or after the trip. The price is quite reasonable for the variety packed into one day, especially with entrance fees and transport included. If you’re someone who loves a mix of nature, history, and local markets, this trip offers solid value. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia, as the caves involve some enclosed spaces.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Affordable Price: At $28, this tour provides a lot of value, including transport, cave entrance, and visits.
• Guided Expertise: Guides like Charlotte are praised for their friendly, thorough explanations, enhancing the experience.
• Authentic Market Visit: The Saturday market is a highlight for browsing antiques, local goods, and soaking up village life.
• Natural Beauty: The valley’s almond trees create an especially vivid scene in early spring, making it a photographer’s dream.
• Historical Caves: The Cova del Rull caves are over 150 million years old, with traces of human life from 50,000 years ago, intriguing for history and geology lovers.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing with enough free time to enjoy the sights and shops.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting from Benidorm: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with a pick-up from one of several central locations in Benidorm, which is a big plus for travelers staying in different parts of the city. The coach ride, lasting about 45 minutes, is smooth, and the bus’s comfort level receives positive mentions—more than one reviewer called it “comfy” and appreciated the safe driving by Kelly, the driver.

Visiting Jalon: The Vineyard and Almond Bloom

Jalon is perhaps best known for its wine, and this tour doesn’t disappoint for those curious about local viticulture. The tour guides offer insights into the award-winning wines produced here, and while the tasting isn’t included in the price, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample the local varieties. The scenery is especially striking in February and March when the almond trees blossom, turning the landscape into a sea of pink and white. This is one of those moments where the photos will do no justice—being there in person is the real treat.

Exploring the Saturday Market

The two hours spent at Jalon’s market are lively and diverse. As one reviewer said, the market is “lovely,” full of antiques, local crafts, and fresh produce. It’s the perfect place for picking up unique souvenirs or just soaking in the village atmosphere. Keep in mind, some travelers mention the challenge of transporting larger purchases back home, so plan accordingly if you’re tempted by the many treasures on offer.

Visiting the Coves of Skulls: Ancient and Mysterious

The caves—Cova del Rull—are the star attraction for many. Formed approximately 150 million years ago, they showcase impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. The name “Skulls” comes from local beliefs and stories that add an element of mystery. Guides explain that traces of human activity, over 50,000 years old, have been discovered there, making it a site of both geological wonder and archaeological significance. The guided tour inside is generally manageable, but those with claustrophobia or mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Return Journey and Logistics

After the caves, the bus takes you back through scenic vineyard valleys and orange groves, giving you a final taste of the countryside. The tour concludes back at the starting points in Benidorm, allowing for easy post-trip plans. The total duration varies from 6 to 7.5 hours, depending on the starting location and pace, which is quite reasonable for a full-day trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers with a curiosity for natural history, local culture, and scenic landscapes. It’s ideal if you enjoy light walking, browsing markets, and learning from friendly guides. The price point makes it accessible for most budgets, and the mix of activities keeps the day interesting. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting in early spring when the almond trees bloom. However, those with limited mobility or a dislike for enclosed spaces might want to consider the cave aspect carefully.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and local culture—all wrapped into a price that feels reasonable. The guided explanations, especially from guides like Charlotte, add depth and fun to the experience. The market at Xalo provides a lively and authentic taste of village life, while the caves offer a peek into the earth’s deep past. It’s a great way to see a different side of the Costa Blanca, away from the busy beaches.

If you’re after a day of varied experiences with friendly guides and a good value, this tour won’t disappoint. It’s perfect for those who want to get out of Benidorm for a day and come back with stories, photos, and maybe a bottle of local wine or a quirky antique.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 6 and 7.5 hours, depending on the starting point and schedule.

What is included in the price?
Entrance fees to the caves and transport by bus or coach are included. Lunch and drinks are not.

Are the caves suitable for everyone?
The caves involve some enclosed spaces, so they are not suitable for people with claustrophobia or mobility impairments.

Is the market open every Saturday?
Yes, the market at Jalon is one of the oldest and largest on the Costa Blanca and is especially lively on Saturdays.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended for the day.

Can I buy wine or local products during the tour?
While there’s no dedicated shopping stop, you can sample local wines and browse market stalls, especially during free time at Jalon.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have about 2 hours at the market and free time in Jalon, plus the cave visit, which allows for some exploration and shopping.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but the caves may pose some challenges for those with mobility issues.

This Jalon Valley trip from Benidorm is a well-rounded day out, perfect for those seeking a mix of nature, history, and authentic local flavor—all at a friendly price.