Barceló has compiled a list of five coastal towns that are must-visits for tourists staying on the Costa Blanca. Noting that Alicante’s picturesque “pueblos blancos” (“white villages”) are the perfect excuse to enjoy a getaway on the Mediterranean coast, the hotel chain highlighted five of the province’s best-kept secrets: La Nucia, Benissa, Altea, Moraira and Villajoyosa.
La Nucía – Sea and Mountains
Barceló’s list of Alicante’s most attractive coastal towns begins with La Nucía, where tourists can enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean sea on the same day as they hike in the Serra Gelada. Popular hiking routes include the Travesía de la Serra Gelada, and other less demanding treks such as Faro del Albir, while the Font de la Favara – La Nucia’s “main green lung” – has a spectacular natural waterfall where swimming is an absolute pleasure.
Benissa – Beaches and Deep Sea Treasures
Located in Alicante’s Marina Alta, Benissa is a wonderful town to enjoy a leisurely stroll through narrow cobble-stoned streets with a distinctive mediaeval atmosphere, Moorish-inspired window lattices and the aristocratic charm of their old mansions. With four kilometres of coastline, it also offers small sheltered coves and quiet bays for snorkelling enthusiasts, with a rich and colourful diversity of underwater species, and some of Alicante’s most paradisiacal swimming areas.
Altea – The Mediterranean’s Cupola
Home to a wealth of culture, history and natural beauty, Altea is located in a charming Mediterranean bay area. The town is highlighted by classic white façades, cobble-stoned streets, blue domed churches and a bustling fishing port. Popular attractions include the Palau de Altea arts centre, historic buildings in Salamanca and Portal Vell streets, the promenade (paseo marítimo) and the Nuestra Señora del Consuelo church.
Moraira – Cultural Haven
A municipality especially known for its extensive vineyards, Moraira is in the northern part of the Costa Blanca. Its eight kilometres of stunning beaches invite visitors to enjoy a day in the sun at El Portet, located in a secluded bay with turquoise waters, or snorkelling in Cap Blanc cove, a true maritime paradise. One of the smallest and most charming villages along the Alicante coastline, Moraira offers a mix of historic buildings and modern architecture, highlighted by the Cap d’Or watchtower and the Santa Caterina church.
Villajoyosa – Lively Ambience
A traditional fishing town, Villajoyosa is the capital of Alicante’s Maria Baja area. Its 3,000-year history dates to the Bronze Age, and its venerable past remains attractively showcased in well-preserved Roman ruins such as the Allon thermal baths, the Malladeta Sanctuary, the Amadorio Reservoir, the Fishermen’s Quarter (where visitors can savour local cuisine) and the Chocolates Valor factory and museum.
For excellent accommodation options, Barceló La Nucía Palms and Barceló La Nucía Hills offer convenient bases to explore these five enchanting towns – and enjoy the Costa Blanca’s renowned climate.
Photos supplied by Barceló La Nucia
