The attractions of the coastal towns in the south of Valencia, from Denia to Guardamar, are well known. Its spectacular beaches and delicious cuisine make this province of the Costa Blanca a magnet for nationals and foreigners. Let's get to know better this corner of the country in a short trip to Alicante. We will enter the capital and discover little hidden gems, full of magic, that few people talk about. Are you up for it? Here we go!
Alicante, a small but powerful capital
We start our trip to Alicante in its capital, a comfortable and international city with a population of 337,000. Its temperature is pleasant in winter and in summer, it exudes joy, leisure and culture. This town, which soaks its feet in the Mediterranean, has a charm that surpasses folklore and coastal clichés. It has very picturesque neighborhoods, large blue flag beaches and many attractions.
Beach, a stroll and horchata
Although this city has no shortage of beaches, the best of them is the Postiguet, as its waves almost touch the old town. Something very unusual in a metropolitan environment.
After invigorating ourselves with the sea breeze, we can stroll along La Explanada, one of the epicenters of this town and, of course, a must on your getaway in Alicante. With more than six million tesserae - pieces of mosaic - in the shape of waves, this avenue is the perfect place to enjoy the supreme local drink, horchata. This is where we find the Carbonell House, from the early twentieth century, a reminder of the financial power of the industrialists of Alcoy.
History and bohemia
Any getaway in Alicante should include a visit to the castle of Santa Barbara, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain.
Located at the top of Mount Benacantil (166 meters), the sunset from its battlements is an impressive sight. On the slope of the rock we will find the Santa Cruz neighborhood, the soul of the city, with its narrow steep streets of low whitewashed houses. This is the old quarter, where the most bohemian atmosphere is mixed with splendid monuments, such as the co-cathedral of St. Nicholas.
Salted fish and archeology
In the center of the city is the Central Market, a splendid modernist building where you can stop for a bite to eat and stock up on tuna mojama, roe or dried octopus. The central point of the 'tardeo' (on Saturday), be sure to stroll around there on your trip to Alicante. Fun is guaranteed from noon to dusk. Also, don't miss the MARQ even if archaeology is not among your passions: the collection is very interactive and surprising.
The corsairs' refuge
Less than an hour from the capital by ferry is Tabarca, the smallest inhabited island in Spain and whose waters were declared a nature reserve. A former refuge of Barbary pirates until the late eighteenth century, it is imperative to visit it in a getaway in Alicante, for its lush nature. Swim in its idyllic beaches and coves, stroll along the harbor and, above all, try one of its exquisite calderos or seafood stews, a marvel!
A getaway to Alicante: two fascinating excursions
About 30 kilometers from Alicante lies Villajoyosa, a charming little town with colours worthy of Kandinsky. La Vila, as its neighbors call it, has not lost an iota of its identity, and has managed to safeguard its seafaring and artisan vocation. The jumbled fishermen's cottages are painted on lime mortar in a palette ranging from clay red to indigo, looking like pure fantasy.
There are very few villages left in the Mediterranean decorated like this, and this one will completely hypnotize you.
Another little-known paradise is Altea, a coastal town of genuine beauty with an immense cultural legacy that you should know in your getaway in Alicante. Its winding cobblestone streets and white houses adorned with bougainvillea and jasmine contain the pure essence of the Mediterranean.
At the top of a hill and overlooking this town of 22,000 inhabitants we find the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Its two beautiful blue and white glazed tile domes, which have become the symbol of the place, inevitably catch all eyes.
Now you have every reason to take a trip to Alicante. Both its vibrant capital city and the excursions and special places we have selected for you are an explosion of sensations. Ah! And don't forget to rent a car in Alicante and accommodation in advance. From OK Mobility we wish you the best of trips!
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