It may be less feted then its counterparts the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava, but the Costa Blanca is itself a veritable treasure chest of stunning locations just waiting to be opened and explored.
Known as The White Coast, Alicante is perhaps the jewel in the region’s crown. Castillo de Santa Barbara is a dramatic fortification rising above the town and coastline of the surrounding area of Alicante.
The site was originally fortified in prehistoric Iberian times but since then Carthaginians, Romans, Moors have all built on the site.
Meanwhile the impressive Santa Pola castle was built on the orders of King Felipe 11 in the 16th century to protect against the raids of Barbary pirates. The prettiest towns are nearest to the castle.
The island of Tabarca is well worth a visit. It is the only inhabited island in the Valencia region and is only reached by boat from Santa Pola and Alicante.
Because of its size it can only be explored by foot or, for the more adventurous, diving.
Orihuela is a historical inland town which is renowned for its five national monuments and its urban layout and Episcopalian seat.
The town also holds two important feasts per year: the Holy Week processions and the Moors and Christians feast in mid-July.
The White Coast is more than just the high rise hotels of Benidorm – the popular tourist town known for its Brtitish pubs. Next time you are on the Costa Blanca check out the other fascinating towns and villages that the area has to offer!
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