Living in Hondón de las Nieves - Alicante New Villas Spain

Living in Hondon de las Nieves

Hondón de las Nieves is located in a small valley within the Medio Vinalopó region, in the interior of the province of Alicante, 35 km from the capital. The municipality is located 367 metres above sea level, with an area of 68.9 km², and includes the districts of La Canalosa, El Rebalso and the La Montañosa urbanisation.

The landscape of the valley is framed by the imposing Sierra de Crevillente to the south (La Vella, 835 m), whose shade is covered with pine forests, and by the majestic Sierra de l’Algaiat to the north (Peña la Mina, 1053 m), which protects the valley with its high peaks and contrasts with the rural surroundings of almond trees, olive trees and vineyards.

The centre of the municipality has a pedestrian area where the Plaza de la Villa stands out, the main space of the town. The town hall building is located here, known for its clock tower, and is surrounded by large palm trees and buildings that preserve traditional architecture. The majority of shops, bars and cafes are also concentrated in the square, with access to a municipal WiFi zone. From this point you can see the climb to the church and its bell tower, restored in 2007. During these works, valuable paintings from the 18th century (1717-1724) were discovered, notable both for their subject matter and for the number of characters represented.

Among the typical buildings of Hondón de las Nieves, the cave houses stand out, some of them restored and well preserved, located at the end of Calle Mayor as a natural extension of it.

In the district of La Canalosa, the municipality has a Social Centre, a Multipurpose Centre, a sports area and a children’s play area. In addition, it has two infant and primary schools: CEIP Nuestra Señora de las Nieves and L’Om in La Canalosa, as well as two medical offices, one in the town centre and another in La Canalosa.

Gastronomy

Among the most representative dishes of Hondón de las Nieves is the rice broth, a comforting recipe made with homemade broth, meat or seafood, and a sofrito that gives it an unmistakable flavour. Another of the star dishes is gazpacho, although in this area it is prepared with its own style, using crumbled flatbreads and accompanied by game meat, such as rabbit or partridge, which gives it an authentic and traditional touch.

Likewise, we cannot forget “les fassegures”, a kind of meatballs seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, which are usually cooked in stews or with homemade sauces. Gachamiga, another essential dish, is a humble but delicious recipe, made with flour, olive oil, garlic and water, and is usually served as a side dish or main course at family gatherings and popular festivals.

Rice with rabbit and snails is another of the great protagonists of local gastronomy. It is cooked over a slow flame, in a paella pan or cauldron, with ingredients that provide an intense and characteristic flavour, being highly appreciated by locals and visitors.

In the pastry section, traditional pastries and sweets occupy a special place. Among them, the most notable are the rollos de costra, a baked dough with a crunchy texture and a sweet touch, ideal to accompany with coffee or liquor. Also the torrijas, made with bread soaked in milk, egg and sugar, fried and sprinkled with cinnamon, are a delicacy especially typical during festive times.

All these dishes and desserts can be enjoyed in the various restaurants and bars in the municipality, as well as in the districts of La Canalosa and El Rebalso, where the culinary tradition is kept alive and is one of the greatest attractions for those who visit Hondón de las Nieves. The hospitality of its people and the quality of its gastronomy make this corner of Medio Vinalopó an ideal destination for lovers of good food and traditional Mediterranean cuisine.