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.

Gulls

Many species of gull breed along the Costa Blanca, including the endangered Audouin’s gull, with its trademark red bill and dark feet.
Hannibal Barca (c.247–c.183 BC)

The Carthaginian general who famously crossed the Alps with elephants.
Hespería Alicante Golf Spa, Alicante (Alacant)

This glossy new development boasts its own 18-hole golf course (designed by Seve Ballesteros, no less) and a fabulous spa. Rooms are smart and modern, with large bathrooms.
Hiking

The Natural Park of Calnegre and Cabo Cope has some good hiking, but the very best walking trails can be found in the Regional Park of Calblanque. A long-distance walking path, the GR92, runs the whole length of the Costa Cálida.
Hiking and Rock-climbing

The coastal cliffs and inland sierras are perfect for hiking and climbing. The Penyal d’Ifac and the Sierra de Bernia have several challenging climbing routes, and the Natural Parks, particularly the Sierra de Espuña, Font Roja (see Parc Natural de la Font Roja), Montgó (see Parc Natural del Montgó) and Calblanque, offer dozens of great hikes and walking trails.
Hispano II, Murcia

This hotel-restaurant in the heart of the city serves fresh Mediterreanean cuisine based on whatever is most appetizing in the market that day.
Holm Oak

With its dark, waxy leaves this evergreen is common across the Iberian Peninsula.
Home of Blues

This classic rock bar has live concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring jazz, blues and old-fashioned rock’n’roll. It’s right on the seafront in the old town.
Hondón

Blink and you’ll miss these two tiny hamlets in the middle of a vast plain with vines stretching in every direction. Hondón de las Nieves and Hondón de los Frailes are just off the Monóvar–Jumilla road. Their table wines are available from the large bodegas which line the road.
Horse Riding

There are several stables around the Mar Menor, including a number in Los Belones offering treks around the Regional Park of Calblanque. Tourist offices will have the details.

Jump to top

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
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