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.

Caravaca de la Cruz

Beautifully set in rolling hills, this medieval town resonates with history. It belonged to the Knights Templar after the Reconquest, and is dominated by the 15th-century castle. Within the castle complex is the unmissable Sanctuario de la Vera Cruz, which houses what is believed to be a fragment of the Cross.
Caravanning-Camping Villasol, Benidorm

This enormous site, only a few minutes’ walk from the beach, is a virtual village. The facilities include two pools (one heated in winter), bars, a restaurant, satellite TV, supermarket, laundry and play areas. The site also rents out mobile homes.
Carlos Moyá

One of Spain’s greatest tennis champions, and winner of numerous titles.
Carnavales (Carnival)

Carnival is an excuse to party hard across the region. Águilas really goes to town as parades process riotously through the streets and parties erupt in every bar and square.
Carnavales (Carnival)

Carnival, usually held in February, gives everyone a chance to let off steam before Lent, and there are wild parties across the region. The village of Pego in the northern Costa Blanca puts on a good show, but the best of all is in Águilas.
Cartagena

One of the biggest ports in Spain, Cartagena is spread around a huge natural bay. Its sturdy red-brick lighthouse keeps watch over the endless flotillas of container ships.
Cartagena

Founded by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century BC, resettled by the Romans, and beloved by the Arabs, Cartagena has had a long, dramatic history. The old town is peppered with Roman ruins and overlooked by a hilltop castle, which offers panoramic views over the sprawling city and out to sea. The Calle Mayor is still lined with flamboyant Modernista mansions, the legacy of a 19th-century boom. The city’s long naval history is recounted in the fascinating Museo Nacional de Arqueología Maritíma (see Museo Nacional de Arqueología Maritíma, Cartagena).
Casa Calixto III, Xátiva (Játiva)

This casa rural is a handsome town house close to the cathedral in historic Xàtiva. Two double rooms and a quadruple make it perfect for families or larger groups.
Casa de El Piñón, La Unión

The Casa de El Piñón is one of the best examples of Murcian eclecticism, bristling with florid decoration and topped with a cupola which was designed by Gustave Eiffel. The building is finally being restored after years of neglect, and will eventually house local government offices.
Casa del Maco, Benissa

This luxurious country hideaway in the foothills of the Lleus Valley has just four rooms, with beamed ceilings. There’s a large terrace and pool. The romantic restaurant serves fine French cuisine.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50–€100
- €100–€150
- €150–€200
- over €200