
Places to Visit
There are few places in Europe with as many possibilities for visitors. Of course, the Costa Blanca is most known for its pristine white beaches and incredible climate all year round. But there is so much more to see and do. Here are a few places we recommend you visit. Want even more? No problem... There's a folder with even more excursions in the apartment.

Guadalest
El Castell de Guadalest is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Valencia, and rightfully so. You'll find the most beautiful views and charming shops in a picturesque village where you can enjoy delicious tapas! Guadalest was founded by the Moors. The oldest part can only be reached on foot through a gate carved into the rock. Parking is easily available on the outskirts in the center of town.
Fonts de l'Algar
Impressive park with crystal-clear blue water and waterfalls. Ideal to visit before or after Guadalest. You park at one of the parking lots just before the park, walk up a bit, and after paying the entrance fee (approximately 5 euros per person), you can enjoy swimming, splashing around, and relaxing all day long... However, be aware that it can sometimes get crowded during the summer months. We recommend going in the morning and then continuing to Guadalest.


Palmarel van Elche
The Palmeral of Elche is a landscape of palmtrees that was established in the middle of the city. You can somewhat compare it to Central Park in New York, but with palm trees. By the end of the 10th century, the Islamic city of Elche was built. The Palmeral is an oasis and also an agricultural production system in arid areas. It is a unique example of Arabic agricultural practices on the European continent.
Cartagena
The city of Cartagena was founded in 221 BC by the North African military leader Hasdrubal the Fair from Carthage, who found the city strategically located to conquer more inland areas. The city was called 'Qart Chadast' (New City), just like Carthage. In 209 BC, the Romans conquered the city and renamed it Carthago Nova within the Roman Empire. A reminder of this turbulent period is the city wall with eight gates. In recent years, the city has invested a lot of energy in making it attractive to tourists, with success. In and around the city, several interesting sights can be found in Cartagena such as the Punic Wall or Roman Theatre. A real recommendation for history fans.


La Mata Nature Park
In Torrevieja, you can find the famous saltwater lakes and the 3700-hectare natural park surrounding the lakes. The two lakes have been used for salt extraction for 2000 years. Although the production is slightly less than in the past century, salt boats are still frequently filled along the special pier, and the salt is shipped worldwide. It's enjoyable when it's not too hot.
Lagunas de Ruidera
In the region of Campo de Montiel, on the border of the provinces of Ciudad Real and Albacete, lies one of the most important lake areas in Spain within the Castile-La Mancha region. The area consists of 15 lakes, forming the upper course of the Guidana River. Nine of the lakes are located in the town of Ossa de Montiel (Albacete), and the others in the municipalities of Argamasilla and Villhermosa (Ciudad Real). Together, they cover an area of 25 km long. The clear lakes are an oasis in the very dry, almost desert-like landscape.
What makes the area unique are the waterfalls that connect some of the lakes. From north to south, each lake is higher than the next. The area between the first lake, La Blancha, and the last lake, La Cenagosa, spans 25 km, with a height difference of 128 meters. The highest lake, Conceja, is the least visited and has a higher protected status compared to the other lakes. In 1979, the lakes were declared a natural park. You can swim in some of the lakes' beautifully clear water, where allowed.

Castillo de Santa Barbara
At the top of the 166-meter-high hill Monte Benacantil stands the Castle of Santa Barbara (Castillo de Santa Bárbara). The castle complex is made up of elements from different periods. The oldest remaining parts date back to the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries. Much of the castle was added after the Middle Ages. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is freely accessible. It has been so since the year 1966. Before that, the castle served military purposes for a long time. Parts of the castle were also occasionally used as a prison.
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You can reach the castle by walking along the fortification wall or through the Parque de la Ereta. The easiest route is to take the elevator built in the middle of the hill. You can access the elevator via the 205-meter-long pedestrian tunnel whose entrance is located on Calle Jovellanos. The entrance is a few tens of meters southwest of the white pedestrian crossing bridge over the busy Calle Jovellanos. During the day, there is a small fee for using the elevators, but in the evening, you can go up for free.

Villajoyosa

In Valencia, the village is also known as La Vila Joiosa, the joyful city. Its history dates back to the time of ancient Rome when the city was called Alonis. Later, in the Middle Ages, the village was taken over by King Jaime I and became a Christian village named Villajoyosa.
During the seventeenth century, the village played an important role in defending the coastline against numerous Barbary pirates. By the late seventeenth century, these attacks had essentially ceased, allowing the village to truly begin to grow.
The village has a long maritime tradition, which is also the reason for the colorful houses along the coastline. Thanks to these cheerful colors, fishermen could recognize their homes from afar. Today, more than thirty thousand people live in Villajoyosa, and the colorful houses provide tons of inspiration for many artists. Besides the long maritime tradition, Villajoyosa is also known for its delicious Valor chocolate!
Cuaves del Rodeo de Rojales
A very special place in Rojales.
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17 cave houses, now inhabited by artists who exhibit their artworks and give workshops every 1st Sunday of the month. There are usually performances of various kinds, especially musical ones. Definitely worth a visit!
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Hand-carved deep into solid rock, the 15 cave houses "Cuevas del Rodeo" overlook Rojales from the surrounding hills.
Built between the 18th and 20th centuries for migrant workers who worked in the Alicante Murcia region, the cave houses are now used by artists and craftsmen to showcase their work and sell their craft items.
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There are about 17 cave houses in Cuevas del Rodeo, all painted in white with blue doors.
The caves now function as an artistic center with various shops, exhibitions of painting and sculpture, and live music performances from different cultures.
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Every 1st Sunday of the month, there is an art market from 11 am to 2 pm.

Orihuela
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The city was called 'Aurariola' under Roman rule and 'Orguëla' under the Moors. In the 9th century, Orihuela was the capital of the Duchy of Teodomiro. It later came under the rule of the Umayyad Caliphate. In 1242, after the liberation from the Moors, the city was incorporated into the Kingdom of Valencia. Its heyday came during the period when it was a diocese in 1564. After the War of Succession, the city was devastated by the troops of Philip V because Orihuela had sided with Austria. In 1910, the writer/poet Miguel Hernández was born in the city, and his house is now open to visitors as a museum.
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Orihuela is a former episcopal city at the foot of a mountain with ruins of a fortress and buildings of the seminary. It is located on the left bank of the Segura River (60 km southeast of Alicante) amidst palm and orange groves. In addition to the palm groves of Elche, those of Orihuela are also worth visiting. The historic center bears witness to a rich past, with Gothic and Baroque heritage, religious buildings, and museums. From the seminary, you have a beautiful view.
Be sure to visit the tourist office. They speak Spanish and English, and you can also obtain a free city map there. It contains all the sights as well as the opening hours and admission prices of all the attractions (most of which are free).
Tabarca
The island of Tabarca is located just off the coast near the town of Santa Pola and belongs to the province of Alicante. It's interesting to note that Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain. This is not surprising, considering the island is only 1,800 meters long and 400 meters wide. Therefore, it's understandable that you can see the entire island from top to bottom in just a few hours. On one side of the island, you'll find an old fishing village, while the other side consists mainly of natural areas.
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The island does not have an airport and can only be reached by boat. There are boats to Tabarca from Alicante, Torrevieja, Benidorm, and El Campello. You could even take a ferry from Santa Pola. Keep in mind that boats to this island are limited. Often, there are only a few boats per day.

43 Experience

he 43 Experience is an excellent activity for when the weather is a bit less favorable, but also when the sun is shining due to its large terrace. What's unique is that you begin here with tasting. Afterward, you'll have an informative tour through the museum, which is also presented in an enjoyable manner. To conclude, of course, you'll... indulge in tasting some cocktails. Afterwards, you still have the opportunity to purchase tasty and fun items in the shop.
Want to end in style? You can do so by booking a table at the restaurant or by driving 15 minutes to Cafe Lab to purchase the patented Asiateco cups and of course taste the Spanish coffee variant.
Los Angeles Market
Visit the vibrant Los Ángeles Market in Torrevieja, where you’ll find a mix of local produce, fashion, accessories and crafts. Situated by the paddle courts, this bustling market is the ideal place to shop, sample local delicacies and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the region.
Every Monday afternoon there are performances and you can try to get a spot on the dance floor or feast your eyes at the bar.

The Elche Pantano
Discover the peace and beauty of El Pantano de Elche, a breathtaking natural area around an old dam and reservoir. During the walk you can do an extra loop to find the statues of Senor Ross
Hike through green valleys, admire impressive rock formations and enjoy panoramic views – a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Los Alcazares + Kinita Beach Bar
The island of Tabarca is located just off the coast near the town of Santa Pola and belongs to the province of Alicante. It's interesting to note that Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain. This is not surprising, considering the island is only 1,800 meters long and 400 meters wide. Therefore, it's understandable that you can see the entire island from top to bottom in just a few hours. On one side of the island, you'll find an old fishing village, while the other side consists mainly of natural areas.
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The island does not have an airport and can only be reached by boat. There are boats to Tabarca from Alicante, Torrevieja, Benidorm, and El Campello. You could even take a ferry from Santa Pola. Keep in mind that boats to this island are limited. Often, there are only a few boats per day.

Beaches
After all these activities and excursions, if you want to relax, the countless beaches in the surrounding area are definitely worth a visit. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim in the guarded sea, or enjoy a cocktail at one of the beach bars, you can do it all!
Guardamar del Segura (19km)
Guardamar del Segura is a privileged place for nature lovers, with the sea, salt lakes, dunes, and pine forests. Guardamar has 11 km of coastline, 8 vast golden sandy beaches, and a beautiful pine forest. You'll find a promenade full of bars and restaurants.
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Cabo Roig (20km)
Two different beaches... La Cala Capitàn has an island that divides part of the beach. La Playa Coba Roig forms a semicircle and is bordered by a cliff. Don't miss the walk along the sea from La Cala Capitàn to La Playa Cobo Roig. A narrow path without shops and restaurants. About 2 kilometers of just sea and rocks, ideal for walking.
