Polop is a charming village in the Valencian Community that’s perfect for exploring with guided tours. Its proximity to Alicante and Benidorm makes it an ideal starting point for day trips combining culture, history, and natural beauty. We particularly love the Alicante: Guadalest Castle and Chocolate Factory tour because it offers a delightful mix of sweet treats, medieval history, and stunning landscapes. If you’re into scenic excursions with a bit of adventure, the Ponoig via ferrata will satisfy your craving for adrenaline and panoramic views. And for a comprehensive look at the region, the Magnificent 7-day trip provides a well-rounded taste of local towns, architecture, and coastal scenery—all accessible from Polop.
Below, we’ve rounded up the three best tours in Polop, each offering a unique experience—from cultural explorations and scenic day trips to exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, these options showcase why Polop is more than just a quiet village; it’s a hub for memorable excursions.
1. Alicante: Guadalest Castle and Chocolate Factory
At number one on our list, the Alicante: Guadalest Castle and Chocolate Factory tour is a delightful way to spend five hours exploring a blend of culinary arts and historical sights. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in understanding the local artisanal chocolate process while soaking in breathtaking views from Guadalest Castle. The tour includes a guided visit to a chocolate factory where you’ll learn about the artisanal process and taste a variety of chocolates. Then, you’ll head to the picturesque village of Guadalest, where a guided tour of the castle reveals impressive views over the surrounding landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local traditions and delicious experiences. You’ll get to enjoy the sights of a medieval fortress and nibbles of handmade chocolates, making it an engaging and tasty journey. The tour is limited to only four participants, ensuring a personalized experience, with both English and Spanish guides. The itinerary includes pickup from various locations such as Altea, Villajoyosa, and Alicante, making it flexible and convenient.
Based on reviews, many find this tour to be an excellent value for a half-day adventure, especially enjoying the combination of history, culture, and sweet tastings. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone curious about local artisan crafts and medieval sights.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-balanced mix of culinary discovery and historical exploration in just a few hours, perfect for a relaxed yet enriching day.
2. The Magnificent 7 Day Trip
Coming in at number two, The Magnificent 7 day trip is a full-day exploration of the Costa Blanca’s most scenic spots. For only $28 per person, this tour offers a rundown of the region’s towns, architecture, and coastal views. Starting from several pickup points near Benidorm, you’ll travel by bus to explore Altea, famed for its church and whitewashed houses, then visit Polop, home of the poet Gabriel Miró. The tour also includes a visit to Costa Magica, where miniature models of Costa Blanca’s famous buildings provide a fun and quick overview of local architecture.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of cultural sightseeing and scenic stops. The Altea photo stop is especially popular for its beautiful coastline views, perfect for snapping memorable photos. The guide shares insights about regional agriculture and local history, adding educational value to the trip. The review mentions the landscape through mountain roads as “very beautiful,” and the stops in Polop and Altea are well-paced.
While some might find the visit to the Perez chocolate factory a bit sales-oriented, the overall experience is considered worthwhile for those wanting a broad regional snapshot. It’s suitable for travelers interested in architecture, coastal scenery, and local traditions.
Bottom Line: This day trip balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, making it a good choice for travelers wanting an overview of Costa Blanca’s highlights in one day.
3. Benidorm: Ponoig via ferrata with two 30-meter rappels
For those craving an outdoor challenge, the Ponoig via ferrata is an exciting option. Lasting about three hours, this adventure takes you on one of the most iconic climbs on the Costa Blanca, featuring suspension bridges, climbing walls, and two thrilling 30-meter rappels. The route involves crossing steel cables along rocky faces, providing both a physical challenge and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains.
This tour is best suited for adventurers with a reasonable level of fitness and an interest in outdoor activities. The guides are experienced and prioritize safety, making it accessible for beginners willing to try something new. The climb offers a perfect blend of vertigo-inducing suspension crossings and scenic vistas, which are worth every moment of effort. The challenge of rappelling back down adds a memorable touch to the experience.
While the tour costs more than a standard sightseeing trip, the unique thrill and spectacular landscape view justify the expense. Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the unforgettable nature of the climb, making it a top pick for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with stunning mountainous scenery, the Ponoig via ferrata delivers a memorable adrenaline rush.
How to Choose
When selecting from these tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a culinary and cultural experience, the Guadalest Castle and Chocolate Factory offers a relaxed, flavorful journey. If you prefer a comprehensive regional overview, the Magnificent 7 day trip covers a lot in one day. For those seeking adventure and outdoor fun, the Ponoig via ferrata provides a physically engaging challenge with incredible views.
Think about your budget, too: the day trip from Benidorm is very affordable and includes a variety of sights, while the via ferrata has a higher price tag but offers a thrill you won’t forget. Booking early is advisable, especially for outdoor activities with limited spaces.
Final Thoughts
Polop’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring a range of experiences—from historic villages and scenic coasts to adrenaline-filled climbs. The Guadalest and chocolate tour is a standout for those who want to combine history and sweet treats, while the Magnificent 7-day trip provides a broad regional glimpse suitable for first-time visitors. If adventure is your priority, the Ponoig via ferrata will satisfy your need for excitement.
No matter your preference, these tours highlight what makes Polop a fantastic gateway to the Costa Blanca’s diverse attractions. Be sure to book early, as these popular experiences fill up quickly, especially in peak season. You’re sure to find an option that matches your interests and creates memorable stories to tell back home.
