Biar Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture in Biar, Spain with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Biar

Biar is a charming town situated in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community in Eastern Spain. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by the Sierra De Mariola and Sierra De Fontanella mountain ranges, offering stunning views of the scenic countryside.

Biar retains many of its historic structures and cultural heritage sites that attract tourists looking for an authentic Spanish experience. The town’s fascinating history and beautiful surroundings make it a popular destination for visitors who want to explore the region beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

List of Places to Visit in Biar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castle of Biar: The most iconic landmark in Biar, this imposing castle sits on a hilltop and offers fantastic views of the town and its surrounding areas.
  • Church of the Asuncion: A beautiful example of Baroque architecture that houses valuable artwork and artifacts.
  • Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography: An interesting museum that showcases the history and way of life of the town and its inhabitants throughout the centuries.

Natural Attractions of Biar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Natural de la Font Roja: A stunning national park with scenic walking trails, hidden waterfalls, and wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Firefly Route: A unique trekking experience that takes visitors through the Sierra De Mariola mountains in the evenings when fireflies light up the trails.
  • Rock Climbing: The town’s surroundings provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing, with several routes of different levels of difficulty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Biar

  • PR-CV 87: An easy circular trail that spans about 5km, taking visitors through the Sierra De Mariola mountains and back to the town center.
  • PR-CV 158: A challenging trek that takes visitors through the Sierra De Fontanella mountain range and boasts some unforgettable views of the countryside.
  • Ruta de los Molinos: A scenic walking route that leads visitors through the lush, green landscape of the River Vinalopo valley with several historic windmills along the way.

Best Things to Do in Biar: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting: The town is surrounded by vineyards producing high-quality wines that visitors can taste in the different wine cellars and taverns.
  • Cooking Classes: Visitors can learn how to prepare traditional Spanish dishes like paella and gazpacho in small cooking schools in the town.
  • Horseback Riding: Several equestrian centers offer tours on horseback through the countryside, providing tourists a glimpse of the local way of life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Biar

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Castle of Biar and enjoy the panoramic views of the town.
Day 2 Explore the Parque Natural de la Font Roja and take a guided tour.
Day 3 Take a bike tour through the Sierra De Mariola mountain range.
Day 4 Go on a wine tasting tour of the local vineyards.
Day 5 Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Spanish dishes.
Day 6 Visit the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography and learn about the town’s history.
Day 7 Take a horseback riding tour through the countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Biar

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paella: A traditional Spanish dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
  • Gazpacho: A cold soup with tomato, cucumber, and peppers.
  • Empanadas: A savory pastry stuffed with pork, chicken, or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Wines: The town produces several high-quality wines, notably the red wine made from the Monastrell grape variety.
  • Horchata: A sweet and refreshing milk-like drink made from tiger nuts.

Where to Stay in Biar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Rural XQ Finca Salto del Negro: An elegant hotel in a restored country house with a pool, spa, and restaurant.
  • Hostal Reyes Catolicos: A cozy, budget-friendly hostel located in the town center.
  • Casa Rural La Lloma: A rustic guesthouse with a pool, garden, and stunning views of the countryside.

What to Buy in Biar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramics: Biar is known for its traditional ceramic pottery that comes in various colors and designs.
  • Wine: Locally produced wines, especially those made from Monastrell grape varieties, make perfect souvenirs.
  • Saffron: Biar produces some of the finest quality saffron in Spain, and visitors may purchase it in local markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Biar

  • Festivals: Biar hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Fiestas de San Juan Bonfires in June, the Moors and Christians Festival in September, and the Open Air Cinema Festival in summer.
  • Bullfighting: Bullfighting is an integral part of Spanish culture, and Biar has a yearly Bullfighting Festival in August.
  • Siesta: One of the most well-known Spanish customs, the town tends to shut down during the siesta hours of 1 pm-5 pm.

Best Time to Visit Biar

The best time to visit Biar is from May to June or from September to October when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded. Avoid visiting during the peak season in July and August when the weather is hot and humid, and the town is full of tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Biar

Do:

  • Try traditional Spanish dishes and local wines.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the countryside and take in the scenic views.

Don’t:

  • Visit during the peak season unless you want to experience the crowds.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  • Touch or disturb the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Biar

Biar is a safe town, and visitors can explore without worrying about crime or violence, but always be vigilant in crowded areas or at night, just like in any other town.

Health in Biar

The town is equipped with medical centers, and visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance in case of medical emergencies. Tap water is safe to drink in Biar.

Getting to Biar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Biar

The nearest international airport to Biar is the Alicante Airport, which is about one hour and thirty minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Biar

Biar has a local bus station located in the town center that provides connections to other nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Biar by train, with regular connections to Alicante and Murcia.

How to Get Around in Biar

Biar is a small town, and visitors can easily explore on foot. Alternatively, visitors can rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Biar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alcoy: A nearby town located about 15km away that is home to several museums, parks, and Gothic architecture.
  • Alicante: A charming Spanish city known for its stunning beaches, culture, and nightlife, which is about 70km from Biar.
  • Valencia: A vibrant and cosmopolitan city famous for its arts and sciences, which is about 100km away.

Conclusion

Biar is a gem of a town in the Valencian Community, providing visitors an authentic Spanish experience with its historic structures, stunning nature, and local culture. This comprehensive tour guide offers everything you need to plan your trip to Biar, from a list of the best places to visit to recommendations on where to stay and what to eat. Start planning your trip to Biar today and discover the true essence of Spain.

Castell de Biar Castell de Biar