Hondon de las Nieves
History
Origens
Local legend states that la Virgen de las Nieves (the Virgin of the Snows) made a miraculous appearance in the location of Hondón de las Nieves in 1418. The sighting led to the village's name today, Hondón de las Nieves (Gorge of the Snows), as well as some political problems in later centuries.
In the middle ages, the village, along with Hondón de los Frailes and Barbarroja, was under the jurisdiction of Orihuela's government. However it was Hondón de las Nieves that was the first to break the ties. Later, in the 17th century, the village was ruled over by the Marquesado de Elche.
Hondon and Aspe
Problems arose in 1839 when Hondón de las Nieves was officially divided into two municipalities: Hondón de las Nieves and Aspe.
Who gets the Virgen?
Both fiercely refused to relinquish claim to la Virgen de las Nieves! After years of negotiations the Bishop of the Diocese finally negotiated a settlement on April 3 1848... to this day the villages take turn hosting the virgin's image. Each odd numbered year Hondón de las Nieves hosts the image for its celebrations in early August, while Aspe receives the honour each even numbered year.
Local activities and services
Activities - More than Beaches
With the ridges of the Sierra de Crevillente sitting on your doorstop, you can happily turn your back on the coast. Straddle your bike and hit the trails or simply stroll through the scenic surroundings on foot.
Walking and Fishing
There's a popular 11km loop from town that locals enjoy walking. It takes you through a recreation area, which hosts typical Mediterranean flora and fauna - expect to see the odd fox, hare, owl and lizard lurking in the shadows. With the area hosting its fare share of trout, you can even hone your fishing skills in the sublime early mornings.
And more
If the unthinkable happens and you tire of the views, you can always take to the skies in a balloon or hang-glider for a new and heart-stopping perspective on the region.
Although seemingly isolated in the depths of the Spanish countryside, you must always remember that Hondón de las Nieves is still only 30 minutes from the coast and its amazing stretches of sand!
Shops and Services
Although Hondón de las Nieves is a small town, you'll find everything for your day-to-day needs within the village. The larger settlement of Aspe, which sits only 8km away, offers a wider variety of shops and services.
If you want to truly flex your shopping muscles and pick up the latest from Europe's fashion houses, Alicante is just a 30 minute drive away
Elche attractions just 15 minutes away
The Huerto del Cura, categorised as an artistic garden, covers 13,000m2. Inside visitors can enjoy a combination of Mediterranean and tropical plants in an atmosphere of calm and tranquility while the palm trees, the garden’s true stars, endow it with its unique aspect.
Misteri Play d’Elx. World Heritage
The Elche Mystery Play, a lyrical drama dating from the Middle Ages, is the city’s most deeply-rooted cultural symbol.
Other Elche attractions
World Footwear Capital - Elche is famed for its footwear production and has numerouse factory outlets worth a visit for thr serious shoe shopper.
The City
Elx is the third largest city in the Comunidad Valenciana region in terms of population size and resources. A stroll through the city’s streets will reveal an interesting historical centre, a silent witness to its glorious past
Hondon Valley tourist information and property
Free tourist information about the Hondón Valley, Hondón property and Alicante region, Spain. Add your Link.
