    
Pinoso
Pinoso is a
small and quiet town on the Murcia/Alicante border surrounded by the pine groves of the Sierra del Coto.
Early mornings in
February are filled with the heady scent of the almond blossom that lingers
in the air, and the blossoms are so prolific that from a distance that it
looks like snow. The
surrounding area is very fertile and green and is a major producer of wine,
some of which is 18% and is available at the "Bodega Cooperativa De Pinoso"
for as little as 60 cents per litre for the vino blanco. Don't be put off by
the low price it is very good, and low prices are something you will have to
get used to compared to the coastal region.
The town of Pinoso has never lost the charm of it’s origins. The tiny streets are
lined with grand old houses and tiny shops, all shuttered against the heat
of the sun. The intoxicating smell of the
smoke from the burning husks from the almond processing plant drifts lazily
over the town, which is sheltered by the Sierra de la Pils mountain range. Pinoso is surrounded by fields of grapes, grown for their excellent wine
making qualities, interspersed occasionally by almond and olive plantations,
and the odd casa (house).
One thing that strikes you as you look around the town is
that at the end of every street there seems to be a view of either mountains
or vineyards; it seems hard to believe that a town in this setting is the
third richest town in Spain. This is due to the marble that is cut from the
mountainside quarries and accounts for around 95% of Spain's total output,
as well as the wine and almond production. Add to this the modern facilities
that a town of its wealth can afford to provide for its residents along with
good shopping in mix of narrow streets and wide tree lined boulevards; some
national parks in the mountains where it is still possible to observe wild
boar, or eagles soaring.
Surprisingly, the town
boasts a new leisure centre with swimming pool, and some very modern shops. For a town of 6000 inhabitants, Pinoso
has a solid infrastructure. Modern amenities include a medical centre,
schools, a theatre, a selection of Spanish restaurants, bars and
supermarkets. The nearest
golf course is Alenda, 35km away.
A lively fiesta is
held at the beginning of August with parades, fireworks and novice
bullfighters fighting young bulls.
Alicante Weather
(Weather is slightly cooler inland than on the coast)
(Link to BBC Weather - please
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