The area

Historically Torrevieja was renowned for its production of sea salt, which has been one of the area’s leading exports since Roman times. In more recent times the area has become famed for its golden sandy beaches and superb water sports and sports fishing opportunities. As recently as the 1980s Torrevieja was a sleepy fishing village, but in the last couple of decades the area has been transformed into a holiday maker’s paradise. The area boasts some fantastic restaurants offering tastes from all over the world, and if you’re a sucker for the beach, there are four sandy stretches with calm, clear waters right on your doorstep.

Cove in Torrevieja, Costa Blanca, Spain by Jose M Martin Jimenez

The beaches

If you like nothing better than spending a good portion of your holiday flat out on the beach then you will not be short of choice in Torrevieja. Playa de los Locos is one of the larger beaches within walking distance of Torrevieja centre that boasts a 700 metre stretch of sand as well as calm, blue waters perfect for swimmers of all abilities.

Playa del Cura is particularly popular with the locals due to its stunning backdrop of palm trees and charming restaurants. The beach’s small size and popularity does mean it gets busy in peak season, so you might have to set off early to secure your spot.

Playa de la Mata is regarded by many as the most beautiful beach in Torrevieja, and is less protected than the area’s other beaches, making it a haven for water sports lovers. Windsurfers, kite surfers and sailors flock to the beach from miles around, but thankfully the beach has a large of expanse of sand, so you should always find your own little sunny spot.

Beach in Torrevieja, Costa Blanca, Spain by Phillip Capper

The attractions

The town’s rich heritage as a major producer of sea salt is encapsulated by Torrevieja’s sea and salt museum. Although you may not think you’ll be immediately taken by the history of the salt industry, this museum is of real interest and well worth an hour of your time.

The Park of Nations is an excellent place to relax, escape the crowds and enjoy an oasis of tranquillity. The beautifully landscaped and verdant park, complete with lake, fountain and palm trees make you feel like you’re a million miles away from a bustling tourist resort.

And what better way to walk off your dinner than with an evening stroll along Torrevieja’s gorgeous beach front and marina. Order a drink and watch the world go by in one of the town’s charming cafes or bars.

Author: If you’re looking for great apartments in Costa Blanca then Los Locos Beach offer comfortable, well equipped, spotlessly clean self-catering apartments with breathtaking sea views. Pop along to the website to see the full range of apartments.

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Photo by admin

You can find there a number of endemic species of plant. The rock is also a home to sea gulls and falcons. If you manage to get onto the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the countryside. Peñón de Ifach is widely popular among climbers who test their strength and abilities here. The number of tourists is regulated due to the protection of site.

Otherwise, the resort of Calpe looks, of course, like any other local sandy beach resort with crystal clear Mediterranean Sea. You can try a wide range of water sports here. You can also visit The Old Church (Iglesia Antigua) here which was built in 14th century and is located just in the town centre.

View Calpe – one of the most expensive resorts in Costa Blanca Spain in a larger map

It is the oldest monument in the town and the only example of Gothic-Mudéjar architecture in this region. Another interesting sight is the fortress Torre de la Peca, which was built in the 14th century as part of a defensive fortress. Tourist attraction can also be the district Arabal formed by narrow streets and white houses. Do not miss Paternina street, which is adorned with dozens of flowering pots and houses with colorful mosaics. On the hill above the town is the Shrine of St. Salvatore, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside.

Calpe is one of the liveliest resorts on the Costa Blanca. It holds a lot of interesting cultural events. History lovers should not miss the Archaeological Museum or the Museum of the festivities. However Calpe is considered one of the most expensive resorts in Spain, you still can find cheap restaurants here and the access to the beach is free.

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Palm trees in Elche, Costa Blanca, Spain / Photo by Claire (Europe Explored)

A lot of time and effort had been put into the development and maintenance of the city of Elche. Each and every single road that meanders its way through the city is lined with some of the most well Palm trees imaginable. As a result of the countless palm trees which can be found throughout the city, the city of Elche has been dubbed the Capital of Palm Trees.

Of course this title got also thanks to the Palmeral of Elche Orchard Grove which is home to more than 200,000 palm trees. It is interesting to point out that the Palm Grove of Elche is now a UNESCO world heritage site.

Basilica of Santa María de Elche, Spain / Photo by Claire (Europe Explored)

The city itself played an important part in the history of Spain. It was here, back in 1897 when the Dama de Elche was first discovered in the region. The statue itself can now be seen at the National Archaeological Museum which is found in Madrid. There are also a number of other important, and very significant monuments and attractions that can be found in and around the city.

Perhaps the biggest attraction to the city of Elche is that of the Altamira Castle which can be found right next to the Municipal Park. Both the Castle and the municipal Park are also part of the Palm Grove of Elche and was built back in the 12th and 13th centuries during the times of Almohad. It was also renovated back in the 15th century and also served as a fabric plant during the start of the 1900s. And while it had once been the town hall, as well as a prison, today the Castle serves as the Elche Archaeological and History Museum.

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