Costa Blanca HolidaysLying on the eastern coast of Spain, the Costa Blanca draws millions of tourists each year to its turquoise waters and miles of white sandy beaches. Alicante is the capital and major city on this stretch of coast, but it is Benidorm that attracts the most visitors and this is the place to go for those looking for a lively and entertaining holiday with hundreds of bars and all-night clubs catering mainly for British tourists. However, there is more to the Costa Blanca than crowded beach resorts - within the mountainous interior are a series of fascinating medieval towns and fortified villages which have been largely unaffected by modern development.
Attractions
Castell de Santa BarbaraThe impressive castle that towers over Alicante was originally built by the Carthaginians in 400 BC and later used by the Romans and Moors. The fortress is massive, encompassing moats, drawbridges, tunnels, cisterns and dungeons, not to mention a stately tower and keep. From the top of the castle there is a wonderful view of the bay and city. The castle can be accessed in an elevator from the Explanada d'Espanya. Telephone: 96 526 3131; Opening time: Daily 10am to 8pm (April to September), 9am to 7pm (October to March); Admission: Free
ElcheFor a change from beaches, just 12 miles (19km) inland west of Alicante is Europe's only palm forest, forming a lush oasis around the city of Elche (Elx). The city boasts several beautiful parks and public gardens. The Parque Municipal is one of the most popular, festooned with palm trees, grassy promenades and children's playgrounds. Most beautiful is the Hort del Cura, filled with shade trees and bright flower beds. Transport: Elche can be reached by an hourly train service from Alicante, or by regular bus connections
Isla TabarcaThe tiny islet of Tabarca is becoming an increasingly popular day trip destination from Alicante, with its quiet fishing village offering an old fort, several very reasonably priced fresh seafood restaurants, a rocky beach with clear turquoise water, and several coves and tidal pools ideal for bathing. The island lies 10 miles (16km) south of Alicante and can be reached in an hour by ferry from the dock on Explanada d'Espanya in the city.
Museu de Arte del Siglo XX AseguradaIn the Plaza de Santa Maria stands Alicante’s oldest building, a former granary dating from 1685. Ironically the city’s oldest building contains its most notable modern art collection, donated by painter and sculptor Eusebio Sempere in 1977. Among the noteworthy paintings on display are those of Dali, Picasso, Calder and Miro. Address: Plaza de Santa Marķa, Alicante; Telephone: 96 514 0768; Opening time: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 2pm and 3pm to 9pm (10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm from October to May); Sundays 10.30am to 2.30pm; closed Mondays; Admission: Free, guided tours are also available at no cost if booked in advance.
Terra MiticaSituated on the outskirts of Benidorm, Terra Mitica is Spain's largest theme park and, with its rides, shows, restaurants and shops, can be a great day out for all the family. Rides like the Tizona, an inverted roller coaster that reaches speeds of 62mph (100kmh) and heights of more than 100ft (31m) with visitors suspended beneath the track, and attractions like Warrior of the Dawn (simulator) provide exhilarating entertainment for all ages. Telephone: 902 02 02 20; Website: www.terramiticapark.com; Opening time: Daily 10am to 10pm; 10am to 1am in peak season (June/July); Admission: €33 (adults); €25 (children 5-10). A ticket gives free entry to all the attractions and shows for the day. Afternoon and two-day passes are also available.
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