Unveil the captivating rural charms of the Costa Blanca's most stunning villages to explore this summer, with Alicante taking a backseat.
The picturesque Marina Alta region of Spain, home to the enchanting towns of Dénia, Calpe, La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa), and Altea, offers a treasure trove of hidden attractions beyond the typical tourist highlights.
Altea, often referred to as the most beautiful village on the Costa Blanca, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, quaint squares, artisan shops, and cosy cafés. The old town, situated on a hill and featuring cobbled streets lined with white houses with blue shutters, is an idyllic setting for leisurely exploration. Every turn reveals a new gem, from the striking Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, recognised by its azure domes, to the charming Mirador Blanc, Glorieta del Manyo, and Mirador Cronistas viewpoints offering panoramic vistas. Altea's bohemian atmosphere is further enhanced by its art galleries, fishing port, and peaceful seafront.
Calpe, another jewel in the Marina Alta, is famous for the Penyon de Ifach, a 330-meter-high rock jutting into the sea. This massive limestone formation offers spectacular hiking and stunning views. Tours include visits to hidden coves and cliffs, with a special sunset experience featuring cava. Another must-visit is the Banys de la Reina, ancient Roman pools transformed into natural pools for refreshing swims.
Dénia, a port village with a history dating back thousands of years, boasts beautiful beaches, a vibrant culinary scene centred around seafood and rice dishes, and a 11th-century castle offering a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea from its walls. The Baix la Mar district, Montgo nature park, and the toy museum are emblematic sites not to be missed.
La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa), known for its colourful houses along the seafront and traditional chocolate factories, is worth exploring the old quarter and enjoying artisanal local sweets. The town also has a remarkable archaeological heritage with some of the best-preserved Roman remains in Spain.
Nearby Jávea (Xàbia) offers hiking routes such as the Cap d'Or Tower trail with spectacular views of the coast, and the Montgó mountain offering unique panoramic vistas of Dénia and Jávea. These spots provide excellent opportunities for hiking and nature lovers.
Visiting nearby villages like Bocairente and Villena offers a taste of local history and culture, with attractions such as Moorish caves and the Alataya Castle housing the famous Treasure of Villena, an important archaeological find.
Benidorm, despite its skyscrapers, offers a variety of things to do, including nature parks, coastal vistas, and an avant-garde sustainable development policy. Its unique blend of modernity and tradition makes it a city that dares to innovate and deserves to be rediscovered. With its remarkable archaeological heritage, soothing maritime atmosphere, and a vibrant culinary scene, Benidorm is a city that offers something for everyone.
In summary, the Marina Alta region offers a blend of cultural, historical, artistic, and natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for travellers seeking authentic Spanish experiences. From exploring Altea’s artistic streets and viewpoints, hiking Calpe’s Peñón de Ifach, enjoying coastal beauty in Dénia and La Vila Joiosa, to discovering historic sites and nature trails in the surrounding villages and mountains, the Marina Alta region is a must-visit destination in Spain.
In the enchanting town of Altea, home-and-garden enthusiasts may find inspiration in the charming Mirador Blanc, Glorieta del Manyo, and Mirador Cronistas viewpoints, offering stunning views that reflect a lifestyle deeply rooted in natural beauty. Meanwhile, for avid travelers, the Penyon de Ifach in Calpe, a massive limestone formation jutting into the sea, presents an opportunity to en-vols on a hiking adventure, providing breathtaking vistas and hidden coves to discover.
