Costa Blanca is famous for the ‘Brits Abroad’ culture, and it’s understandable why it attracts such crowds throughout the summer months. Guaranteed weather, world-class beaches, tons of family facilities and bumpin’ nightlife is a recipe in popularity. Why not experience a different side of Costa Blanca with a villa holiday? Behind the crowds on the tourist beaches lie incredible mountains, hidden coves, vineyards and ancient villages that have yet to be discovered. You’ll also find some seriously swanky eateries and luscious spa experiences if you’re all about kicking back in luxury .
Here’s some handy tips for the best eats, things to do with groups, family activities and the must-sees for Costa Blanca. You might need two weeks’ holiday after all….
Why visit?
If you crave the relaxed simplicity of a sun, sea and sand holiday then the Costa Blanca is a dream destination. Mile upon mile of Blue-Flag beaches stretch along an azure sea, and the region’s resorts are pros at providing everything you and the family might need. There is entertainment galore, exhilarating theme parks, pumping nightlife and fabulous food (this is the home of paella, after all), with a plethora of other activities on land and sea. Peel back the glistening, tourist-friendly veneer of the coastal resorts and you will find a much more traditional side to the Costa Blanca too. Little stone villages shelter in olive and citrus-strewn valleys, flanked by scenic rivers and waterfalls. Elsewhere, the sophisticated foodie cities of Alicante and Valencia await.
When to visit:
The hot summer months are the height of the tourist season in Costa Blanca and this is when everything is in full swing. Yet other times of the year offer great holiday opportunities too. Spring and autumn are toasty yet not stifling and the beaches are much less crowded. Winter breaks might not offer beach weather but there are plenty of restaurants, museums, hikes, golf and architecture to keep you happy. It is also worth timing your visit to coincide with one of the region’s flamboyant and lively fiestas. Easter is a top time for fiestas and you can expect parades, Moors versus Christians battle re-enactments and even a giant sardine burying ritual (yes, really).
Getting around:
Airport: Alicante International is the closest airport to Costa Blanca. Budget airlines fly there frequently from all over the UK.
Public transport: There is a fast, efficient and cost-effective network of public transport along the Costa Blanca. An excellent bus service links the airport with the main towns, cities and resorts. There is also a light railway, El Trenet, which runs between Alicante and Denia, serving Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea and Calpe.
By bike and by foot: There are many hiking and cycling routes in Costa Blanca. The Orihuela Costa is the most well-known, this paved coastal path can be tackled in sections or all in one go and offers a spectacular way to see the region.
Car rental: Despite its comprehensive public transport network, car hire remains hugely popular in the Costa Blanca for two major reasons: Getting behind the wheel gives you access to more out-of-the-way destinations and you also aren’t at the mercy of public transport schedules. You can hire cars from national and international rental agencies either from the airport or from all major resorts and cities in the region, the latter being a good option if you just want a day hire.
Highlights
- Alicante – Dance until dawn in the city’s legendary nightlife spots.
- Elche – Visit Europe’s largest date plantation.
- Benidorm – Soak up the sun in this classic holiday resort.
- Blue Flag Beaches – Lounge on the sand or try your hand at water sports.
- Denia – Climb up to the castle for panoramic views of the city.
- Jávea – Sit in a seafront café and watch the fishing boats chug into the traditional town.
- Theme parks – Feel your stomach in your throat at one of several excellent theme parks.
- Valencia – Tuck into a paella in a seafront restaurant.
- Torrevieja – Fine-tune your swing on world-class golf courses.
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