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Not far from the port, this relaxed and informal little restaurant is wholeheartedly dedicated to seafood, and serves up whatever is freshest that day. You are in luck if the traditional fishermen’s stew caldero is on the menu – the restaurant makes one of the tastiest versions around.

This beautiful casa rural in the lovely medieval quarter of Bocairent has a well-equipped kitchen and dining room, plus bunk beds (sleeping six). Perfect for families.

This architectural gem of the early 20th century is tucked away in the quiet wine-producing town of Jumilla. Designed by a follower of Gaudí, it boasts impressive, highly ornate ironwork by local craftsman Avelino Gómez.

This delightful country restaurant just a few miles from the tourist enclave of Guadalest serves sturdy mountain dishes like rabbit cooked with almonds, or olleta de blat, a traditional stew prepared to a centuries-old recipe.

This charming, old-fashioned grocery shop, trading for more than a century, sells a wide range of wines and liqueurs from the region.

This smart restaurant serves impeccable local rice and seafood dishes, but it’s the tapas bar which really pulls in the crowds.

Every detail of this Art Nouveau-style town house is exquisite, from the sinuous staircase with its vine-leaf motif to the rainbow-coloured skylights.

The most sumptuous Modernista mansion in the Costa Blanca has been exquisitely restored, and still contains much of its original furniture .

Set in gardens and orchards just outside the beautiful town of Caravaca de la Cruz, these well-equipped houses and apartments are grouped around a pool and barbecue area. Stylishly decorated, they sleep between two and 12 people.

Torrevieja’s splendid Modernista casino (see Casino, Torrevieja) has all the usual games, but it’s certainly the most atmospheric place to gamble away your holiday money. Dress fairly smartly (no shorts), and don’t forget your passport.