DK Travel : Costa Blanca

Sun, sea and sand are excellent reasons to visit the Costa Blanca, but its attractions don’t stop there. Inland, you can explore magnificent Natural Parks, wild sierras and remote hill villages, or visit historic towns with fascinating museums and a wealth of fabulous architecture. The engaging capital cities of Alicante (Alacant) and Murcia are crammed with great shops and tapas bars, and a string of lively resorts along the coast offers splendid beaches, fantastic nightlife and plenty of opportunities for fun. Best of all, there’s always a secret cove or rugged cape to be discovered if the crowds get too much.

Calblanque

The beaches of the Regional Park of Calblanque are the best in the whole of the Costa Blanca. Choose from sandy stretches, or discover your own private cove.
Calblanque

The Regional Park of Calblanque incorporates one of the region’s wildest stretches of coast. Camping is permitted in one area, and you must book in advance. The site is very basic, but the proximity of the stunning beaches (just across the dunes) more than compensates.
Calblanque

The Regional Park of Calblanque has the most beautiful stretch of coastline on the Costa Blanca, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving. Behind the shore lie pine-clad mountains, with excellent walking and mountain-biking trails.
Caldero

This rich, liquid stew, usually made with broth, rice and seafood, exists in many regional variations. One of the best known is the caldero tabarquino , a speciality of theIsla Tabarca. Inland variations will often incorporate locally raised meat and game, or add some highly flavoured cured sausage.
Callosa d’en Sarrià and Fonts d’Algar

The most interesting thing about the modest little village of Callosa d’en Sarrià is actually just outside of it. In a pretty, orchard-filled valley (from Callosa take the road to Tárberna and follow the signs) are the Fonts d’Algar, a lovely cascade of waterfalls and natural swimming pools set among shady forest (see Fonts d’Algar), (see Val de Guadalest (Drive)). Several excellent walking trails lead from here to the Sierra de Bernia (see Sierra de Bernia (Hike)).
Calp (Calpe)

Fish auctions are common in all the fishing villages of the Costa Blanca, but Calp’s futuristic computer screens and rapid bidding make it every bit as exciting as the stock exchange.
Calp (Calpe)

Calp’s fast and furious fish auction is held from 5pm Monday to Friday, and features the latest technology.
Calp (Calpe)

Calp has a stunning natural setting on a vast bay dominated by the Penyal d’Ifac (see Penyal d’Ifac (Peñon d’Ifach)), (see Penyal d’Ifac, Calp (Calpe)). The modern resort has almost swallowed up the original medieval village, but its sandy beaches and excellent water-sports facilities have made it immensely popular.
Camelot, Santa Pola

This beachside club with an outdoor dance area is a classic on the summer nightclub scene. Spanish pop is interspersed with house and techno.
Camping Bella Vista, Águilas

A big, friendly site 300 m (984 ft) from the beach, with shop, bar-restaurant, children’s play area and table tennis. Wheelchair-accessible bungalows are also available. Open all year.