Villas rental Spain - What to do & see on the Costa Blanca
Fiestas
The Fiesta is an integral part of Spanish life and most of them have a religious or historical background. However, it is often not necessary to actually organize anything, as the ability to "fiesta" and turn a relatively minor event into a celebration with singing and dancing is one of the most endearing facets of the Spanish national character. Curiously, the fiestas are financed partly by the Town Hall and the allocation of fiesta funds is high on the list of priorities - such is the importance attached to the various events!
They are primarily celebrations to mark an important religious event, but you have the 'Moors & Christians' (celebrating the defeat of the former by the latter), bull runs (young bulls let loose in the streets) and much more.
There are various fiestas staged during the year, and you can bet that one will be taking place during your visit, whenever it is. The largest would be Benidorm Fiestas. Please check our page on Fiestas & Festivals.
Markets
To many people, the Spanish street market is a major holiday attraction. Apart from the bustle and atmosphere, it is true to say that better quality, and cheaper, fruit and vegetables can usually be obtained than in the shops and stores. These markets also sell a wide range of other products, extending over carpets, linen, clothing, leather wear, jewellery, watches, radios and domestic electrical products. Not every stall offers the 'bargain of the century', so some care is needed - and remember that there is always the risk that one might not be able to get a refund or exchange if the goods prove to be faulty and this should be reflected in the price paid. On non-food purchases, don't hesitate to bargain; in fact the stall holder will be quite surprised if you don't make an offer. The markets open at 9 AM, or earlier, and close at lunchtime. If the normal market day proves to be a fiesta then it is changed to the day before or after.
Rastros (Flea Markets) are usually held over weekends at various resorts and inland towns. These can be really interesting as you mooch about looking for that interesting item to take back home with you, whilst enjoying a day out, perhaps incorporating a long lazy lunch somewhere in the countryside.
Fun Excursions
Terra Mitica
Benidorm´s Theme Park, managed by Paramount Parks, is unique in the world. This is a fabulous day out for the whole family and well worth the short journey time (15-30 minutes) to visit at least once on your holiday.
A fascinating journey through the mystery of five of the most ancient and legendary civilizations in Mediterranean Sea: Egypt, Greece, Rome, Iberia and The Islands.
In TERRA MITICA you will be able to fight side by side with Ulysses, escaping from Cyclop, sail through the Nile river, face up to The Minotaur, and see a pirate vessel sinking.
Situated on the outskirts of Benidorm, at Finestrat, it can be seen from the motorway and the bypass, and is well signposted.
Entry price includes all rides - allow a day. Info
Terra Natura
A New Generation of Wildlife Park - no visible barriers exist as you interact with the animal kingdom and witness the timeless wonders of nature, displayed through spectacular shows of skill and artistry. There’s nothing like it back home !! Two parks in one, Terra Natura also contains Aqua Natura, a fantastic water park for a splash a minute fun or relaxing in the spa or on the beach. Info
Aqualandia
Ideal for families, a large water park with various rides.
Located at Benidorm (on the approach into this resort from the north - and thus easy to find!) This is reputedly one of the largest water theme parks in Europe with every imaginable device designed to extract fun from this exciting dimension - slides, chutes, rapids, breaking surf etc. Within the complex are bars, restaurants and picnic areas. Great fun for families with children of all ages as it provides a full and fun-packed day for all. Info
Mundomar
This park has something for everyone, a great day out for all the family. Flamingos, Turtles, Sea Lions, Seals, Penguins, Parrots, Bat Cave and much more. The main attraction being the fantastic dolphin shows, not to be missed!
Travel through the world, seeing live animals, exotic plants and scenery. Info
Safari Aitana
Aitana Safari Park. Elephants and Tigers. Near the village of Sella, about 33 kilometres inland from Benidorm. Here you'll get to see elephants, lions, tigers and many more wild animals as you follow the Safari trail through the park. There's a children's zoo for the little ones to enjoy and a special nursery where they rasie new born animals. Open all year, every day from 11am. Prices 13 EUR for adults, 10 EUR for children.
Take the road from Villajoyosa, past Benidorm, to Sella, passing through Orxeta. The park is about 15 km after Sella near the town of Penaguila.Info
Cuevas del Canelobre
This year round attraction is a huge natural underground chamber where the mineral deposits resemble candleabra! Effectively lit to properly illuminate nature's fantastic handiwork the caves are also used for concerts. There are great views and paths for walking tours close to the entrance.
From Campello, between Benidorm and Alicante, take the road to Busot, then signposted to the caves. Info Website
Horse Riding – Escuela de Equitación La Sella
This is a well-run stable that offers horse riding for all levels, horses are well looked-after and are in very good condition. The stables are located on the La Sella residential urbanisation, near the village of Jesus Pobre, just inland from Javea. It can sometimes be difficult to contact the stable owners as they are out giving lessons; they recommend that you call between 0800-0900, however you are welcome to ring any time but stand a much smaller chance of reaching someone. It is advisable to check with the owners that prices quoted have not changed! Also it is worth booking a few days in advance as they normally get fairly booked up. Facilities include: * Lesson in the paddock: * 30 minutes: €17 or one hour: €30 * Riding out (Hack) in groups: * One hour: €17, two hours: €30 or Day-long hack: €60
Escuela de equitación La Sella. Residencial la Sella. Partida Alquería de Ferrando, s/n Ctra. la Xara a Jesús Pobre Tel. 96 576 14 55
Lemon Express
The 'LIMON EXPRESS' - Travelling on the Limon Express is a pleasant excursion, along the Costa Blanca. It offers a five-hours' journey between Alicante and Denia, through Benidorm, Altea, Penon de Ifach and Teulada, and other natural places you can't otherwise reach. The old tourist train 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 heights of this coast while sparkling wine is served - a lovely day out for all the family! Info.
PLACES TO VISIT
Valencia
A one and a half hour drive, by motorway north, this has plenty to offer. A vibrant Spanish city contrasting traditional and modern, a great place to spend the day. Info
Benidorm
Dismiss all negative notions about this town as it is a great place to visit, then leave!! Apart from the two well-kept sweeping sandy beaches, and promenades, there is shopping to be had, and plenty of things to do. Info
Gata de Gorgos
Visit Gata de Gorgos and see what the local craft industries have to offer: esparto, palm leaf, rattan and wickerwork articles. Also the famous Guitar factory for your authentic Spanish guitar at reasonable prices. Info
Jalon Valley
Tour the Valle del Pop and stop in Xaló (Jalon) with its antiquities market every Saturday morning and its wine cooperatives. Especially beautiful in Spring when the valley is bathed in blossam. Info
Sierra de Bernia
Tour the "Sierra de Bernia", listed as a nature parc. This trip is one of the most beautiful routes to explore throughout the coast of Alicante. The height of this natural formation offers an impressive panoramic sight of the entire northern coast line of Alicante. Info
Guadalest
On the uppermost part of a mountain peak, with houses set into the rock, Guadalest overlooks a deep valley with a beautiful landscape. The town and its castle with a Medieval appeal are listed as an historic-artistic complex. Info
Callosa d'En Sarrià & Fonts de Algar
The waterfalls and fountains in Callosa d'En Sarrià, well known under the Fonts de Algar are a frequently visited beauty spot. (camping, picnic and barbecue area). Info
Castles
Visit the "ruta de los castillos" (Castles). The itineray begins in Novelda with the Mola Castle , continues in Petrel, Sax, Villena, Biar and ends in Castalla. Some kilometers in the North of the province Alicante visite Xàtiva with an impressive castle. Info
Jijona
Jijona is a world-famous place thanks to its turrón factories, a typical sweet made of almonds and honey.The factories can be visited to see how this Christmas speciality is made. Info
Coll de Rates
Ascend to Coll de Rates from where you can enjoy panoramic views that are unique to the region. Info
Alicante
A one hour drive, by motorway south, this small city offers a castle, old town and good shopping. Info
Inland from Alicante
Tour the quiet villages and ancient Moorish settlements in the hills of the interior of the province Alicante: Vall d'Ebo, Vall d'Alcalá, Vall de Gallinera, Vall de Laguart.
Elche
Visit Elche (Elx), known as the European Palm Grove: Sights: - Huerto del Cura (an exotic garden with many of palm trees) - Palacio de Altamira - La Calahorra (Arab fortifications of the 14c). Info
Island of Tabarca
Visit the island of Tabarca, a real monument of nature and once a refuge for pirates and corsairs. This only habited island in the autonomous community of Valencia, can be visited by taking a boat from Santa Pola (20 minutes). Info
Orihuela
Visit Orihuela, famous for being an historical-artistic and monumental city. Sights: - Santo Domingo Monastery - San Salvador Cathedral - Palacio Episcopal and much more. Info
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The owner of this website is neither affiliated with these organisations, nor is responsible in any way for the services and facilities they provide.
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