While the province of Valencia might seem synonymous with beaches, fertile farmland and a Mediterranean climate, its interior hides a very different landscape. In certain inland districts, you can find mountains, juniper forests and villages situated at over a thousand metres above sea level, where winter brings snow and summer offers cool nights – a far cry from the typical image of the province. Discover below the highest village in the province of Valencia.
Which is the highest town in the province of Valencia?
The highest village in the province of Valencia is La Yesa, situated at 1,040 metres above sea level. Located in the Los Serranos region, this municipality marks the highest population point in Valencia and offers a very different scene from the coast: quiet streets, traditional architecture and a beautiful natural environment.
La Yesa is a town with a unique character. Historically linked to transhumance and mountain life, it retains an authentic and uncrowded atmosphere, with clear skies, clean air and a sense of isolation.
Castilian-speaking and with about 250 inhabitants, the name La Yesa even appears in the Cantar de Mio Cid, as these lands were coveted by El Cid in the 11th century. After passing through Muslim rule and being conquered by James I, it obtained privileges as an independent town in the 16th century.
What to see in La Yesa
Despite its small size, La Yesa and its surroundings offer several attractions that deserve a leisurely visit.
- Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles church: Built in the 17th century and completed in 1622, it follows the Renaissance style and is notable for its sturdy tower. It was burned down during the Carlist Wars.
- San Roque hermitage: Located at the entrance to the town from the Alpuente road, it is a small, simple temple from the 17th century.
- El Carrascal: This nearby natural area is home to centuries-old holm oaks and dense pine forests, creating an environment of great ecological value.
- The Sombrero Pine: Declared a monumental tree, it is one of the natural symbols of La Yesa, with its unique shape.
Living in La Yesa
Living in La Yesa means choosing tranquillity and direct contact with nature. With a small population, the pace of life is relaxed and neighbourly relations are close-knit and traditional.
At the same time, the altitude dictates the climate: winters are very cold, and snowfall is not uncommon, while summers are mild compared to the coast. It's perfect for those seeking to prioritise quality of life and clean air.
What is the highest area in Valencia?
The highest area of the province of Valencia is located in the Rincón de Ademuz area, especially in mountainous areas near Puebla de San Miguel, where some of the highest elevations in the Valencian territory are located, exceeding 1,700 metres in places such as Alto de las Barracas (Cerro Calderón), the highest point in the Valencian Community.
Which are the highest towns in Valencia?
The mountainous interior of the province is home to the highest-altitude municipalities. These are the five highest towns in Valencia:
- La Yesa (1,040 metres): It is the highest municipality in the province. It stands out for its natural surroundings and its peaceful character.
- Puebla de San Miguel (1,000 metres): Located in the Rincón de Ademuz, it is a small and isolated village, near Cerro Calderón.
- Alpuente (974 metres): A neighbour of La Yesa, it offers an important medieval heritage and natural beauty. It was an episcopal see in the Middle Ages.
- Vallanca (950 metres): Also in the Rincón de Ademuz, it offers a mountainous and wooded environment.
- Aras de los Olmos (936 metres): Known for its astronomical observatory and its night skies, it is a benchmark in scientific tourism.
