Gata de Gorgos Tourist Information
Gata de Gorgos is located in the northern Costa Blanca, Spain in the Alicante area of Valencia.
Gata de Gorgos is situated on the N332 coastal road just inland of Denia and Javea, it can be reached from junctions 62 and 63 of the AP-7 motorway.
Occupied by the Muslims during the Arab Conquest (8th to 13th Centuries), Gata de Gorgos (Cat of Gorgos) was annexed with the town of Denia, re-taken for the Christians by Jaime I of Aragon (The Conquistador) in around 1250. In 1535 the village became independent of Denia. Situated at the crossroads with the N-332 and the regional roads leading to Jávea and Denia is the village of Gata de Gorgos which owes its name to the Gorgos River (also called the Jalon) which winds its way through the village before reaching Jávea. The crossroads mark the border between the inland and coastal areas of the Marina Alta and the village is approximately 83 kilometres from Alicante and 45 from Benidorm.
Gata de Gorgos is renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, earning the name L’Artesania due to its famous production of goods made from esparto grasses, wicker, and palm. This village, often called the Bazaar of the Costa Blanca, offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of handmade items, such as baskets, furniture, and hats, displayed prominently in craft shops and even spilling into the streets. With over 50 shops, the abundance of handcrafted goods not only provides a picturesque sight but also plays a crucial role in the local economy. Visitors can enjoy watching skilled artisans at work and explore the town during the Festival of San Miguel in late September, which features an artisan fair attracting hundreds of visitors.
In addition to craftsmanship, Gata de Gorgos supports its economy through the production of guitars and ceramics. Agriculture also plays a significant role, particularly in the cultivation of Moscatel grapes, which are harvested and processed using traditional methods to produce renowned raisins. This intricate process, dating back to Muslim times, has become a ceremonial event and is a vital aspect of the town’s culture.
The town offers various attractions, including a scenic park along the River Gorgos with numerous walking routes. Museums provide insights into the town’s history and heritage, dating back to 1535 when it became an independent municipality from Denia and the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel was completed. Other notable sites include the Hermitage of the Santisimo Christ (Christ of the Calvary), along with various statues and monuments that reflect the town’s historical journey, including periods under Moorish rule and subsequent expulsion.
Gata de Gorgos hosts several annual fiestas: the Bonfires of San Juan in June, the Christ of the Calvary festival in August, and St. Michael’s celebrations at the end of September. The town’s charm is captured in its stunning landscapes, distinctive white houses with ivory lintels, rich gastronomy, skilled artisans, and warm, welcoming residents. A visit to Gata de Gorgos is truly enriching, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Gata de Gorgos
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Gata de Gorgos Places to Stay
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