🇪🇸 Spain Road Trip: Santa Bárbara Castle in Alicante

🚗 Road Trip Overview Planned as a 460km / 5.5-hour drive, we made a spontaneous detour to Alicante’s Santa Bárbara Castle—and it was totally worth it! 🏰 Santa Bárbara Castle Guide ⏰ Best Time: Morning or sunset (golden hour magic!). 💰 Free entry (yes, really!). 🅿️ Parking: Free lot (limited spots—arrive early!). Paid options nearby or hike up from 🌟 Highlights: 360° views of the Mediterranean 🌊✨ 9th-century Moorish fortress with layered history 🏰 Epic sunsets over the sea 🌅 🌄 Scenic Drive Breakdown ❄️ Granada: Snow-capped Sierra Nevada peaks. 🌾 Mid-route: Rolling olive groves + farmland. 🌴 Near Alicante: Coastal palms + turquoise waters. ⏳ Extra Stops (If Time Allows!) 📍 Calpe: Hike Penyal d’Ifac rock 🏔️ 📍 Dénia: Seafood feasts by the port 🦞 #SpainRoadTrip #Alicante #CastleViews #MediterraneanVibes