Places to Visit on the southern Costa Blanca & Costa Calida
The Southern Costa Blanca or White Coast as the name means, has
an average of 320 days a year of sunshine and maintains an average year round
temperature of 24°C. According to the World Health Organisation the area has the
"healthiest climate in the world". This is caused by the combination of constant
year round warm temperatures and the two huge salt lakes rich in minerals of
"Laguna de la Mata" (now a conservation area) and the "Salina de San Miguel"
that surround Torrevieja. The natural salt lakes dry the air, therefore reducing
humidity and producing a healthy atmosphere beneficial for people who suffer
with chest problems, arthritis, rheumatism etc. These lakes are also home to a
host of wildlife including large flocks of Flamingos.
The Costa Blanca beaches are famous throughout Europe with long
stretches of soft white sand and sparkling clear Mediterranean sea. Each boasts
the European Blue Flag awarded for clean beaches and totally unpolluted water.
Most of the towns hold large traditional daily street markets
and spectacular festivals and processions taking place all year around but also
have the modern amenities such as newly constructed hospitals, shopping outlets
and sports centres, etc.
Algar Waterfalls
This is a beauty spot that is run with the visitor's participation in
conservation and development of "Fonts de l'Agar and its surrounding area. Visit
the riverside, a walk along the paths and bathing in its various pools and
waterfalls. Don't forget your swimsuits! First aid post, camping for one day
with WC and showers, reception centre and parking.
Place: It is situated on the road to Callosa, 35 Km from Calpe and Benidorm.
Combine a visit with a visit to Guadalest. Tel/Fax: 96 588 21 06
Altea
This is a pleasant town just north of Benidorm and well worth a visit.
Altea Hills Yachts
Visit Altea Hills and enjoy a stroll around the Marina, probably one of the
most exclusive on the Costa Blanca, and is home of some of the biggest luxury
yachts in Spain. Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the bars in the marina. You
can charter boats from here and there is also a diving excursion which leaves
from the marina
Aqualandia
This is a huge water amusement park for adults and children. It is situated
on the west side of Benidorm against a hill near Mundomar and Benidorm palace.
Don't forget the sun cream!
Tel: 96 586 40 06 or 07
Website:
www.aqualandia.net
Aquascop
Discover the fantastic underwater world in the waters of Benidorm's Island
and the Calpe area on this boat trip. Departures from the port and the street
Rincon de Loix, first departure at 10.00 and goes every hour...
Tel: 96/585 00 52
Aquapolis, Torrevieja
A fun day out for all the family. Aquapark in Torrevieja.
Time: Open from 10am until 7pm. Tel: 96/571 5611.
Balloon Flights, Elche
Definitely for the more adventurous, take a 40 minute balloon flight in the
areas of Bajo Vinalopo and Bajo Seguar. The trip offers incredible views of the
south of the province of Alicante and at the same time provides a secure and
suitable flight for the general public.
The whole excursion lasts 3 hours, including 40 min flying time. At the end
of the flight a picnic is provided and you can celebrate the experience with
Cava. Excitement Touristic Balloon Flights
Tel: 966 637 401 (Reservations)
Benidorm Palace
Special and spectacular varied dinner show. Three-hour floor show and dancing
with music provided by a live orchestra. Alternatively you can book tickets in
the travel agent next to the Cam Bank in Commercial Centre 1 in La Marina.
Time: Doors open at 21.00.
Tel: 96 585 16 60 or 61 (Reservations)
Calpe
A visit to Calpe itself is recommended. Have lunch in one of the many
restaurants which specialise in local fish dishes.
Calpe Ifach The Phoenicians called the Rock of Ifach the Northern
Rock, to distinguish it from Gibraltar, the Southern Rock, as these were the
only spectacular promontories they encountered in their travels to the western
shores of the Mediterranean.
Ifach is indeed a large rock, measuring 332m
in height. Today, it is being transformed into a nature park to protect its
unique vegetation and over 300 species of animals, including colonies of sea
birds that use it as a nesting area. Located here is a nature school where local
carnations and even original Robertonian orchids can be admired. The park itself
can be reached up a zigzagging track leading to a panoramic view over the entire
Marina Alta coastline.
Castillo Conde de Alfaz
Go back eight hundred years to the Castle of the Count of Alfaz and enjoy a
dinner typical of this age. See how the knights fight on foot and horseback to
defend their honour and save themselves from the Pit of Terror; a place which
you too can visit….if you dare! End you night in the great disco "The Torture
Chamber".
Place: In Alfaz between Altea and Benidorm. 3 km from Benidorm.
Tel: 96/686.55.92 or 93.
Castle of Santa Barbara, Alicante
This is well worth a visit for the magnificent views of Alicante and the
surrounding area. Don't make our mistake and try to walk up the hill to the
castle. If you are travelling by car, follow the signs on the N-332 to the
Puerto. When you reach the Puerto, you will see signs for Parking. Once parked,
walk along the promenade until you reach the beach. Continue until past the
Tourist Information office, just after this there is a bridge crossing the dual
carriageway. Cross the road and follow the signs to the Castle. You will enter a
tunnel which takes you to the lift up to the Castle.
Cactuslandia
A personal garden transformed into cactusland. 1000 different species of
cactus and other succulents, tropical fruit tees, several species of parrots,
parakeets, exotic birds and other exhibits. A wonderworld of shapes and colours.
Also a collection of fossils, mineral stones, shells, butterflies. Refreshments
are available. On the road between Altea and Calpe.
Place: La Galera del Mar, 26 - Altea - Tel: 96/584 22 18
El Huerto Del Cura (The Curate's Orchard), National Artistic Garden, Elche
(Elx)
This is a garden of 13,000 m2 where you can see a large cactus and palm-tree
collection with species from all over the world. About a thousand palm-trees
surround ponds, rockeries and promenades.
Place: Porta de la Morera, 49,
03203 Elche (Elx) Tel/Fax: 96/5 45 19 36
Go-Karts
There are different categories of Karts and tracks including the baby kart
tracks for ages 5 to 10 years old, junior tracks from 10-15 years old and adult
tracks. The entrance is just off the N-332 near Playa Flamenca.
Tel/Fax: 96/5 32 80 69
Go-Karts Mar Menor. The entrance is near San Javier Airport just off the AP7
Exit 784.Tel/Fax: 868104550 www.gokartsmarmenor.com
Guadalest
This is a beautiful town in the hills with spectacular views. There are
several museums, including a Museum of torture and the unique Antonio Marco
Museum where you can see miniatures of many things too small to see with the
human eye. Visit the old fortified monastery.
Tel: 96 588 50 04 (Torture Museum)
Tel: 96 5898 53 23 (Museum Antonio Marco)
Jalon Valley - Valley of Wine
The Jalon valley is named after the Jalon river, it flows through the
village Jalon (some road signs say Xalo), which lies some 7 km from Benissa. The
famous Jalon wines, strong red and the sweet mistela or moscatel wine are sold
in two bodegas, where you are encouraged to try the produce. You can buy the
wine by the litre.
Every Tuesday a market - vegetables, clothes, shoes
etc. - is held in the square and the adjacent streets.
On Saturday mornings an enormous car boot sale and antique market is held on the area
opposite the bodega under the huge eucalyptus trees and is well worth visiting.
Jeep Safari 4 x 4 Cabrio
Discover the real Spain. A complete full day of adventure, action and
sensation through the magnificent countryside of the Costa Blanca mountains,
valleys, picturesque villages, rivers, jungles and swamps. Drive yourself or let
yourself be driven.
Place: Av. Penetracion s/n - Complejo Admiral 1, local 5 - Benidorm.
Tel: 96 680 71 24
Limon Express
Travelling on the Limon Express is a pleasant excursion, along the Costa
Blanca. You can admire Altea, Teulada and other natural places you can't
otherwise reach. The old tourist trains stops in Gata de Gorgos where passengers
visit a guitar factory and are shown typical handicraft. On the way back, going
South, passengers can enjoy the wonderful west Mediterranean landscape from the
heights of this coast whilst sparkling wine is served.
Tel: 96/680 31 03 (Reservations - info) Fax: 96 680.85 21
Mundomar
Marine and exotic animal park near Aqualandia. Mundomar is a unique
adventure; its main attraction is that it is a beautiful setting with exotic
marine animals. Enjoy a fascinating encounter with the dolphins and seals. They
are real stars of the park.
Place: West side of Benidorm
Tel: 96 586 91 01 or 02 or 03
Pola Park
A fun attraction park for children, on the N-332 just north of La Marina.
You will see the park as you travel from Alicante Airport on the left hand side
of the road.
Time: Open 19.00 - 2.00 July and August and at weekends for
the remainder of the year. Tel: 96/541 70 60
Prehistoric natural cave
The Caves of Canelobre at Busot, situated 24km from the city of Alicante,
at a height of 700m on the northern side of Cabeco d'Or. The interior of the
cave has got one of the highest vaults in all Spain, and is very similar to a
cathedral.
Place: Busat at Alicante, motorway A7, excit 67 to El Campello,
exit the road N-332 near El Campello to road N-340 Alcoi-Xixona to the cave in
Busot. Tel: 96/569 92 50
Prehistoric natural cave (2)
Visit this magnificent natural cave of more than 300m long and its
stalagmites and stalactites and admire the great numbers of domes which at times
rise to a height of more than 20m. The cave is situated on the road between
Pedreguer and Benidoleig.
Place: Situated inland between Gata and Ondara,
surrounding area Javea - Denia. Tel: 96/640 42 35 - 03759.
Safari Park Rio
Rio Safari Park Elche is the ideal spot to enjoy nature and to watch
tigers, lions, camels, monkeys, hippopotamus ….. From its trains. You can also
visit the first farm exhibition with more than 200 crocodiles of all sizes. Rio
Safari's 6000 fully grown palm trees create an unique tropical setting.
A professional team records with a video camera your journey by train and will
turn your visit into a great audio-visual souvenir.
Place: On the road from Santa Pola to Elche.
Tel: 96/663 72 88
Salvador Artesana - shoe factory outlet
This is an essential place to visit - your can buy shoes, handbags, leather
goods such as belts at factory prices. They also have a range of large sizes for
tall men and women - do ask the assistants.
Take the road to Elche from
the N332, and follow the road for approximately 14 kilometres. Turn left onto
the N340. Follow the signs to Carrefour supermarket. You will see the yellow
sign for the Salvador Artesana factory approximately 250 - 500 metres past
Carrefour on the right. Turn right and the factory is at the end of the road on
the righthand side.
Place: 030205 Elche (Alicante) Apda. de Correos, 5404
Time: Opening times 10 - 13.30, 3.30 - 8.00. Tel: 966 67 54 41.
Sand Dunes of Guardamar
You can ride camels over the dunes at Guardamar for an enjoyable trip.
Terra Mitica - Theme Park
The Mediterranean's major Theme Park, on the outskirts of Benidorm is well
worth a visit and has attractions for all ages. You can buy a 1 day, 2
consecutive days ticket, 3 days non-consecutive ticket or an Evening Ticket. The
Park is open all week from Mid-March - October, at weekends during November and
December (all week Christmas week) and reopens in March.
Follow the N-332 to Alicante and then join the Autopista A-7 (signpost to Valencia). As you
approach Benidorm you will see the signs to Terra Mitica clearly marked, salida
(exit) 65-A. (NB the A-7 is a toll road).
Tel: 902 020 220
Website: www.terramiticapark.com
Wax Museum, Benidorm
113 sculptures - royal families, politicians, art, music, horror, cinema, etc.
Place: Museo de Cera - Avda Mediterranea, 8 - 03500, Benidorm.
Tel: 96/680 84 21
The Southern Costa Blanca or White Coast as the name means, has
an average of 320 days a year of sunshine and maintains an average year round
temperature of 24°C. According to the World Health Organisation the area has the
"healthiest climate in the world". This is caused by the combination of constant
year round warm temperatures and the two huge salt lakes rich in minerals of
"Laguna de la Mata" (now a conservation area) and the "Salina de San Miguel"
that surround Torrevieja. The natural salt lakes dry the air, therefore reducing
humidity and producing a healthy atmosphere beneficial for people who suffer
with chest problems, arthritis, rheumatism etc. These lakes are also home to a
host of wildlife including large flocks of Flamingos.
The Costa Blanca beaches are famous throughout Europe with long
stretches of soft white sand and sparkling clear Mediterranean sea. Each boasts
the European Blue Flag awarded for clean beaches and totally unpolluted water.
Most of the towns hold large traditional daily street markets
and spectacular festivals and processions taking place all year around but also
have the modern amenities such as newly constructed hospitals, shopping outlets
and sports centres, etc.
Algar Waterfalls
This is a beauty spot that is run with the visitor's participation in
conservation and development of "Fonts de l'Agar and its surrounding area. Visit
the riverside, a walk along the paths and bathing in its various pools and
waterfalls. Don't forget your swimsuits! First aid post, camping for one day
with WC and showers, reception centre and parking.
Place: It is situated on the road to Callosa, 35 Km from Calpe and Benidorm.
Combine a visit with a visit to Guadalest. Tel/Fax: 96 588 21 06
Altea
This is a pleasant town just north of Benidorm and well worth a visit.
Altea Hills Yachts
Visit Altea Hills and enjoy a stroll around the Marina, probably one of the
most exclusive on the Costa Blanca, and is home of some of the biggest luxury
yachts in Spain. Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the bars in the marina. You
can charter boats from here and there is also a diving excursion which leaves
from the marina
Aqualandia
This is a huge water amusement park for adults and children. It is situated
on the west side of Benidorm against a hill near Mundomar and Benidorm palace.
Don't forget the sun cream!
Tel: 96 586 40 06 or 07
Website:
www.aqualandia.net
Aquascop
Discover the fantastic underwater world in the waters of Benidorm's Island
and the Calpe area on this boat trip. Departures from the port and the street
Rincon de Loix, first departure at 10.00 and goes every hour...
Tel: 96/585 00 52
Aquapolis, Torrevieja
A fun day out for all the family. Aquapark in Torrevieja.
Time: Open from 10am until 7pm. Tel: 96/571 5611.
Balloon Flights, Elche
Definitely for the more adventurous, take a 40 minute balloon flight in the
areas of Bajo Vinalopo and Bajo Seguar. The trip offers incredible views of the
south of the province of Alicante and at the same time provides a secure and
suitable flight for the general public.
The whole excursion lasts 3 hours, including 40 min flying time. At the end
of the flight a picnic is provided and you can celebrate the experience with
Cava. Excitement Touristic Balloon Flights
Tel: 966 637 401 (Reservations)
Benidorm Palace
Special and spectacular varied dinner show. Three-hour floor show and dancing
with music provided by a live orchestra. Alternatively you can book tickets in
the travel agent next to the Cam Bank in Commercial Centre 1 in La Marina.
Time: Doors open at 21.00.
Tel: 96 585 16 60 or 61 (Reservations)
Calpe
A visit to Calpe itself is recommended. Have lunch in one of the many
restaurants which specialise in local fish dishes.
Calpe Ifach The Phoenicians called the Rock of Ifach the Northern
Rock, to distinguish it from Gibraltar, the Southern Rock, as these were the
only spectacular promontories they encountered in their travels to the western
shores of the Mediterranean.
Ifach is indeed a large rock, measuring 332m
in height. Today, it is being transformed into a nature park to protect its
unique vegetation and over 300 species of animals, including colonies of sea
birds that use it as a nesting area. Located here is a nature school where local
carnations and even original Robertonian orchids can be admired. The park itself
can be reached up a zigzagging track leading to a panoramic view over the entire
Marina Alta coastline.
Castillo Conde de Alfaz
Go back eight hundred years to the Castle of the Count of Alfaz and enjoy a
dinner typical of this age. See how the knights fight on foot and horseback to
defend their honour and save themselves from the Pit of Terror; a place which
you too can visit….if you dare! End you night in the great disco "The Torture
Chamber".
Place: In Alfaz between Altea and Benidorm. 3 km from Benidorm.
Tel: 96/686.55.92 or 93.
Castle of Santa Barbara, Alicante
This is well worth a visit for the magnificent views of Alicante and the
surrounding area. Don't make our mistake and try to walk up the hill to the
castle. If you are travelling by car, follow the signs on the N-332 to the
Puerto. When you reach the Puerto, you will see signs for Parking. Once parked,
walk along the promenade until you reach the beach. Continue until past the
Tourist Information office, just after this there is a bridge crossing the dual
carriageway. Cross the road and follow the signs to the Castle. You will enter a
tunnel which takes you to the lift up to the Castle.
Cactuslandia
A personal garden transformed into cactusland. 1000 different species of
cactus and other succulents, tropical fruit tees, several species of parrots,
parakeets, exotic birds and other exhibits. A wonderworld of shapes and colours.
Also a collection of fossils, mineral stones, shells, butterflies. Refreshments
are available. On the road between Altea and Calpe.
Place: La Galera del Mar, 26 - Altea - Tel: 96/584 22 18
El Huerto Del Cura (The Curate's Orchard), National Artistic Garden, Elche
(Elx)
This is a garden of 13,000 m2 where you can see a large cactus and palm-tree
collection with species from all over the world. About a thousand palm-trees
surround ponds, rockeries and promenades.
Place: Porta de la Morera, 49,
03203 Elche (Elx) Tel/Fax: 96/5 45 19 36
Go-Karts
There are different categories of Karts and tracks including the baby kart
tracks for ages 5 to 10 years old, junior tracks from 10-15 years old and adult
tracks. The entrance is just off the N-332 near Playa Flamenca.
Tel/Fax: 96/5 32 80 69
Go-Karts Mar Menor. The entrance is near San Javier Airport just off the AP7
Exit 784.Tel/Fax: 868104550 www.gokartsmarmenor.com
Guadalest
This is a beautiful town in the hills with spectacular views. There are
several museums, including a Museum of torture and the unique Antonio Marco
Museum where you can see miniatures of many things too small to see with the
human eye. Visit the old fortified monastery.
Tel: 96 588 50 04 (Torture Museum)
Tel: 96 5898 53 23 (Museum Antonio Marco)
Jalon Valley - Valley of Wine
The Jalon valley is named after the Jalon river, it flows through the
village Jalon (some road signs say Xalo), which lies some 7 km from Benissa. The
famous Jalon wines, strong red and the sweet mistela or moscatel wine are sold
in two bodegas, where you are encouraged to try the produce. You can buy the
wine by the litre.
Every Tuesday a market - vegetables, clothes, shoes
etc. - is held in the square and the adjacent streets.
On Saturday mornings an enormous car boot sale and antique market is held on the area
opposite the bodega under the huge eucalyptus trees and is well worth visiting.
Jeep Safari 4 x 4 Cabrio
Discover the real Spain. A complete full day of adventure, action and
sensation through the magnificent countryside of the Costa Blanca mountains,
valleys, picturesque villages, rivers, jungles and swamps. Drive yourself or let
yourself be driven.
Place: Av. Penetracion s/n - Complejo Admiral 1, local 5 - Benidorm.
Tel: 96 680 71 24
Limon Express
Travelling on the Limon Express is a pleasant excursion, along the Costa
Blanca. You can admire Altea, Teulada and other natural places you can't
otherwise reach. The old tourist trains stops in Gata de Gorgos where passengers
visit a guitar factory and are shown typical handicraft. On the way back, going
South, passengers can enjoy the wonderful west Mediterranean landscape from the
heights of this coast whilst sparkling wine is served.
Tel: 96/680 31 03 (Reservations - info) Fax: 96 680.85 21
Mundomar
Marine and exotic animal park near Aqualandia. Mundomar is a unique
adventure; its main attraction is that it is a beautiful setting with exotic
marine animals. Enjoy a fascinating encounter with the dolphins and seals. They
are real stars of the park.
Place: West side of Benidorm
Tel: 96 586 91 01 or 02 or 03
Pola Park
A fun attraction park for children, on the N-332 just north of La Marina.
You will see the park as you travel from Alicante Airport on the left hand side
of the road.
Time: Open 19.00 - 2.00 July and August and at weekends for
the remainder of the year. Tel: 96/541 70 60
Prehistoric natural cave
The Caves of Canelobre at Busot, situated 24km from the city of Alicante,
at a height of 700m on the northern side of Cabeco d'Or. The interior of the
cave has got one of the highest vaults in all Spain, and is very similar to a
cathedral.
Place: Busat at Alicante, motorway A7, excit 67 to El Campello,
exit the road N-332 near El Campello to road N-340 Alcoi-Xixona to the cave in
Busot. Tel: 96/569 92 50
Prehistoric natural cave (2)
Visit this magnificent natural cave of more than 300m long and its
stalagmites and stalactites and admire the great numbers of domes which at times
rise to a height of more than 20m. The cave is situated on the road between
Pedreguer and Benidoleig.
Place: Situated inland between Gata and Ondara,
surrounding area Javea - Denia. Tel: 96/640 42 35 - 03759.
Safari Park Rio
Rio Safari Park Elche is the ideal spot to enjoy nature and to watch
tigers, lions, camels, monkeys, hippopotamus ….. From its trains. You can also
visit the first farm exhibition with more than 200 crocodiles of all sizes. Rio
Safari's 6000 fully grown palm trees create an unique tropical setting.
A professional team records with a video camera your journey by train and will
turn your visit into a great audio-visual souvenir.
Place: On the road from Santa Pola to Elche.
Tel: 96/663 72 88
Salvador Artesana - shoe factory outlet
This is an essential place to visit - your can buy shoes, handbags, leather
goods such as belts at factory prices. They also have a range of large sizes for
tall men and women - do ask the assistants.
Take the road to Elche from
the N332, and follow the road for approximately 14 kilometres. Turn left onto
the N340. Follow the signs to Carrefour supermarket. You will see the yellow
sign for the Salvador Artesana factory approximately 250 - 500 metres past
Carrefour on the right. Turn right and the factory is at the end of the road on
the righthand side.
Place: 030205 Elche (Alicante) Apda. de Correos, 5404
Time: Opening times 10 - 13.30, 3.30 - 8.00. Tel: 966 67 54 41.
Sand Dunes of Guardamar
You can ride camels over the dunes at Guardamar for an enjoyable trip.
Terra Mitica - Theme Park
The Mediterranean's major Theme Park, on the outskirts of Benidorm is well
worth a visit and has attractions for all ages. You can buy a 1 day, 2
consecutive days ticket, 3 days non-consecutive ticket or an Evening Ticket. The
Park is open all week from Mid-March - October, at weekends during November and
December (all week Christmas week) and reopens in March.
Follow the N-332 to Alicante and then join the Autopista A-7 (signpost to Valencia). As you
approach Benidorm you will see the signs to Terra Mitica clearly marked, salida
(exit) 65-A. (NB the A-7 is a toll road).
Tel: 902 020 220
Website: www.terramiticapark.com
Wax Museum, Benidorm
113 sculptures - royal families, politicians, art, music, horror, cinema, etc.
Place: Museo de Cera - Avda Mediterranea, 8 - 03500, Benidorm.
Tel: 96/680 84 21
