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The endless coves of the coastline (Águilas alone boasts 35) are perfect for snorkelling, but the very best place to try it is the Regional Park of Calblanque, where the protected waters are clear and the bays are secluded.

The Costa Blanca offers endless possiblities for underwater exploration, and several areas have been declared marine reserves, including the Cap de Sant Antoni near Xàbia (Jávea), the Isla de Benidorm, the Penyal d’Ifac (Peñon d’Ifach) and the Isla Tabarca. There are companies offering diving courses and trips in all the major resorts.

This hardy evergreen is a beautiful sight in spring, when its glorious yellow blooms carpet the countryside.

Don’t forget your sunscreen! The sun is very fierce on the Costa Blanca. You should avoid sunbathing between noon and 4pm.

Many of the larger hotels around the Mar Menor boast tennis courts, and will usually let non-residents play for a fee. Most of the larger towns along the coast have municipal courts, which can be hired through the local tourist information office.

This remote reservoir near the village of Tibi is formed by the oldest working dam in Europe, built at the end of the 16th century, and perfectly slotted into a narrow gorge.

If you can, visit the Val de Gallinera in spring, when the scent of almond blossom fills the air, and the hillsides are covered with a sea of pink and white. The C–3311 from Pego to Planes is a scenic mountain road, winding past medieval villages, ghostly Arabic settlements, lush orchards and ruined castles. To extend the drive, head for the lovely village of Agres.

From the seaside resort of Altea to the hilltop village of Penáguila, this drive takes in waterfalls and natural pools near Callosa d’en Sarrià (Fonts d’Algar, (see Callosa d’en Sarrià and Fonts d’Algar), the precipitous village of Guadalest overlooking a turquoise lake (see Guadalest), and, approached through olive groves and rugged passes, the serene, castle-topped village of Penáguila.