You’re already living in paradise in a villa purchased in Moraira, an apartment bought in Calpe, or a bungalow for sale in Javea but, nonetheless, it’s still nice to travel and visit other places. Spain is a large country with so many great towns, cities and coastlines to explore but, if you are just wanting a weekend break head south of Alicante for a few days.
The area south of Alicante is still in the Costa Blanca but has a different atmosphere. The lively resort town of Torrevieja has blue flag beaches and a busy promenade. There are boat trips available to explore the shoreline and the Habaneras Shopping Centre is perfect for some retail therapy. Torrevieja is also proud of their salt lakes which are a thing of natural beauty, they are pink in colour due to a type of algae that produces the same pigment, beta-carotene, responsible for the colour of carrots. The Dunalieilla salina algae is found in high concentration in these lakes which results in the colour. The lakes also contain healthy minerals including Magnesium, Potassium and Zink, enjoying these salty waters is believed to help alleviate skin conditions, arthritis, help circulation and relaxation. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the wooden walkways by the lake to admire the views, pink water, surrounding scenery and try to spot some of the 200 different species of birds that have been seen here including flamingos and herons. More information about the history and ecology of the Salinas de Torrevieja can also be found in the Museo del Mar.
San Miguel de Salinas is an historic coastal town with a welcoming atmosphere apart from the beautiful beaches you may want to visit the 18th century church of San Miguel Arcángel which is the historical centre of the town, the Baroque architecture and intricate interior are well worth seeing. The town also has a history museum showcasing artifacts and chronicling the history of the town from its ancient origins to present times.
Cabo Roig combines the beach life with a relaxed Spanish charm and has a Marina where you can watch luxurious yachts come and go sitting in one of the lively bars and enjoying fresh seafood. Guardamar del Segura has a natural beauty with pine forests and sand dunes lining the sandy beaches. The salt lakes are known for their therapeutic properties so enjoy a refreshing dip into these waters.
There are many other places to explore in this part of the Costa Blanca but, other interesting places to visit south of Alicante are also well worth visiting.
Next to the Alicante region is Murcia which offers an interesting blend of history, culture and natural wonders. The city of Murcia itself has a stunning gothic cathedral, an old bridge Puente Viejo and a wonderful centre of lively squares to stroll through and enjoy a drink and meal in a traditional bar. The town of Cartegena is steeped in Roman history with a theatre that was built to impress and is still standing.
The Sierra Espuña national park is a lovely place to hike in the valley of climb the rugged peaks, you may find a hidden waterfall during your adventure. Another rather unknown paradise to visit and relax in is the artificial lake with two islands located in Santa Rosalía. The two islands are south facing, full of palm trees and white sand slope gently into the lakes clear water. It is safe area for practicing water sports without facing the tidal challenges that can face novices in the sea. Three are plenty of activities available at this unique resort kayaking, paddle surfing, play beach volleyball and there are tranquil spaces dedicated to Pilates, and Yoga.
The magical medieval village of Moratella in the mountains transports visitors through time as they visit the castle and wander through the cobbled streets. The vineyards of Jumilla grow a unique variety of grape and produces wine that has won awards, while you’re in the area enjoy a tasting tour at one of the local bodegas,
Whether you live in Denia, Javea, Moraira, Calpe or the Jalon Valley you just have join the AP-7 motorway and head south and you will be in the Southern Costa Blanca in a couple of hours. For those who buy property in Altea or Finestrat the drive will take even less time. It is, therefore, a simple matter to get away for a short break to the southern Costa Blanca or the region of Murcia and once you have done it once you will realise that one trip will not be enough to discover everything this area has to offer and being so close by makes return visits a distinct possibility. There are plenty of possibilities for accommodation from friendly guesthouses, to camping options and luxurious beach resorts.
Living in the Costa Blanca is something we have been lucky enough to choose to do but, don’t just settle! Get out and about and explore every corner of this fascinating part of Spain.
Client information from Hamiltons Real Estate (formally Hamiltons of London) - 2024
