The Hondon Valley is located less than 40 kilometres from Alicante and comprises primarily of Hondon de los Frailes "Gorge of the Friars" and Hondon de las Nieves (Gorge of the Snows").  The Hondon Valley is renowned for its grape vines and almond groves and is on occasions, by the locals, called "The Valley of the Vines".  For walkers, hikers, climbers and mountain bikers the Sierra de los Frailes, "Mountain Range of the Friars", )which at their tallest point are almost 720 metres above sea level) are a superb way of experiencing both the traditional Spanish countryside and some incredible views.

The Hondon Valley is well known for its excellent local wines and the pace of life here can only be described as "slow"!!  With a mild climate and an essential gentle breeze during the summer months, the temperatures in the Hondon Valley rarely drop to less than 25 degrees centigrade, and this, coupled with in excess of 320 days of sunshine a year really make this a place worthy of a visit when considering a new place to live.

Hondon de los Frailes covers an area of approximately 12 square kilometres and has a population of 1,600.  Hondon de los Frailes was actually part of Hondon de las Nieves until it gained its independence in 1926.

Although there is evidence of settlements in the area going back centuries, it was the Moors who established Hondon de los Frailes as an agricultural area producing almonds, olives and grapes.

The village as it can be seen today has mostly expanded around the 19th Century church, Iglesia de la Virgen de la Salud, which was built by the Dominican Friars.

Hondon de las Nieves has a slightly larger population than its neighbouring village with approximately 2,500 inhabitants and is approximately 25 square kilometres.  Hondon de las Nieves is a peaceful agricultural village with a traditional Spanish feel.

Hondon de las Nieves nestles in the Hondon Valley and grows a wide variety of fruit and nuts that are not only sold locally but also exported to various other European countries.  Hondon de las Nieves has a very attractive church "Our Lady of the Snow" and it is just down from here in the village square and side streets that there are a number of small bars and restaurants worth visiting.

Whilst both villages are very Spanish and traditional there is everything you need for day to day living: butchers; bakers; medical centre; dentist; chemist; banks; supermarket and psot office.  Of course you also have the weekly market where you cannot resist buying fresh, local produce.  Then to complete your weekly shop why not take a trip to the local bodega to purchase your tasty and inexpensive wine to enjoy with friends and family alike whilst sat enjoying the enviable summer climate.