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Alcoi (see Círculo Industrial, Alcoi (Alcoy), Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians)) is famous in the region for traditional sweets first introduced by the Arabs. Most cake shops sell sugared almonds and the tasty sugar-coated pine nuts called peladillas .

Brash, brazen Benidorm (see Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante, Benidorm) is the place to go if you’re looking for kitsch souvenirs. It’s also a great place to find cheap t-shirts and a huge variety of beachwear to suit all tastes and budgets.

The most interesting thing about the modest little village of Callosa d’en Sarrià is actually just outside of it. In a pretty, orchard-filled valley (from Callosa take the road to Tárberna and follow the signs) are the Fonts d’Algar, a lovely cascade of waterfalls and natural swimming pools set among shady forest (see Fonts d’Algar), (see Val de Guadalest (Drive)). Several excellent walking trails lead from here to the Sierra de Bernia (see Sierra de Bernia (Hike)).

Fish auctions are common in all the fishing villages of the Costa Blanca, but Calp’s futuristic computer screens and rapid bidding make it every bit as exciting as the stock exchange.

Gandia’s history is inextricably bound up with the Borjas; the opulent Gothic palace which was their family home has been impeccably restored (see Palau Ducal, Gandia (Gandía)). The only other reminder of the town’s historic importance is the serene Gothic church of Santa María. A resort town, Gandía-Playa, has grown up around the port, with famously well-manicured beaches (see Playa de Venecia, Gandia-Playa) and a buzzing nightlife scene in summer.

Perched high on a crag in a sea of mountain peaks, the little whitewashed village of Guadalest is huddled under the ruins of an ancient castle. Once it was a strategic military outpost, but it lost its importance after earthquakes devastated the region and irreparably damaged the castle. Thanks to its stunning location and the picturesque charm of its old-fashioned lanes and squares, Guadalest is now the most visited village in Spain. Quirky museums, cafés and souvenir shops have sprung up, but although tour buses disgorge an endless stream of visitors in summer, Guadalest has hung onto its medieval tranquility and charm.

Guadalest is packed with souvenir shops, offering delicate, handmade lace tablecloths, woollen blankets, slippers and traditional capes. You’ll also find a good range of local produce, from liqueurs to honey.