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.

El Campelló

Despite the proximity of the busy beaches at San Juan, this fishing village retains its tranquil atmosphere.
El Caribe, Alicante

A big favourite with the local Latino community, El Caribe is a huge and popular salsateca. Learn the moves at the free salsa and merengue classes.
El Caribe, Alicante

Latino dance fans will enjoy this hugely popular salsateca, where the local South American community come to dance all night long. If you haven’t got the moves, you can pick them up at the free salsa and merengue lessons.
El Centro de Artesanía

The best place to find all kinds of Murcian arts and crafts, from ceramics to handmade figurines. It’s run by the Murcian provincial government, and there’s another branch in Lorca.
El Chaleco, Alhama de Murcia

At this family-run restaurant you can dine on traditional Murcian specialities, wonderful homemade desserts and a good selection of regional wines.
El Cid (1043–99)

This charismatic knight won considerable lands around Valencia from the Arabs.
El Corte Inglés

Alicante has two branches of El Corte Inglés, Spain’s biggest department store. The groceries are excellent, if expensive.
El Faro, Águilas

Stylish, friendly and popular with a younger crowd, El Faro serves tasty local dishes at very reasonable prices.
El Mosquí, Cabo de Palos

Excellent caldero (see Seafood) and fabulously fresh pescado frito (fried fish platter) at this popular dining spot with a nautical feel.
El Palmeral, Orihuela

After a busy morning’s sightseeing around the historic city of Orihuela, the delightful and extensive palm grove on the edge of town makes a refreshing change and is perfect for picnics.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50