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.

La Tartana, Cartagena

This elegant restaurant serves delectable seafood right on the port. The menú del día is a bargain. There’s also a busy tapas bar.
La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa)

La Vila Joiosa (see La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa)) has been making chocolate since the 17th century. You can buy the perfect souvenir at the famous Valor chocolate factory on the outskirts of town.
La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa)

A colourful market with lots of art and antiques takes place in the old town on Sunday mornings.
La Vila Joiosa (Villajoyosa)

The Jewelled Town gets its name from the brightly painted houses of ochre, yellow and blue which are clustered around the port. It has fine sandy beaches, a smattering of historic buildings, and a centuries-old chocolate-making tradition.
Laderas de Pinoso

A new venture for two eminent wine-makers.
Las Brisas, Águilas

Decked out like a ship, Las Brisas specializes in fish. It serves a good lunchtime menú del día – the only time you’ll find their excellent paella on the menu.
Las Cadenas, Murcia

This relaxed local restaurant serves Murcian dishes featuring meat, seafood and other fresh produce, but the highlight here is the home-made desserts.
Las Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of Saint John)

The Feast of St John the Baptist on 24 June is celebrated in the Costa Blanca with bonfires, fireworks and parades. Alicante’s festival is the biggest.
Las Lomas Village and Spa, Los Belones

For the ultimate in luxurious self-catering accommodation, look no further than Las Lomas, part of the prestigious La Manga resort. The 60 or so apartments are clustered round a golf course, and a fabulous spa offers the latest treatments.
Lennon’s

Lennon’s is a big favourite with the under-25s, and the dance floor (playing high-energy dance music) is always heaving at weekends.

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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