Excursions

Not going to the beach for a day? The Costa Blanca also has a lot to offer and there are various excursions. On a water scooter, to the zoo or on safari, there is something for everyone to do.

Below are a few tips for the Costa Blanca:

Terra Mitica "Spanish Amusement Park"

Terra Mítica will be the first theme park to receive more than 70% of holidaymakers from the tourist market. Terra Mítica is divided into five different sectors in which the visitor will have a great time and discover the ancient cultures of the Mediterranean in an adventurous way: Egypt, the dream bazaar. A walk along the ancient port of Alexandria, where you can see the secrets of the gods in the pyramid. Crete, with the famous Labyrinth of the Minotaur. Rome, the border between both cultures. The bridge of Meride, the military atmosphere, the stockade, and on the highest part of the park a wooden Russian bridge has been built. An exciting journey to the XVllth and XVllth centuries of the Comunidad Valencia from the past to the present. An unforgettable relaxation center with incredible attractions: The Islands, the Great Voyage. While reliving the mythical journey of Ulises along the Mediterranean, in the heart of the park, you can enjoy unique experiences. The park contains, among other things, various water attractions, impressive mechanical means of transport with which you can make a tour through the park. And for the children there are smaller imitations of the various attractions.
www.terramiticapark.com

costa-info.com for even more costa outings

Turron Museum

In Jijona there are many beautiful places to visit, as in most towns all over the Costa Blanca. Jijona is a very old town with beautiful little streets. At the top of the hill surrounding, you will find the ruins of the old castle town with an impressive overview of the landscape. A little outside, actually on the outskirts of Jijona you can already see the Turrón Museum. The museum is housed in the same factory, which produced the famous “El Lobo” and “1880” Turrón.

The museum offers a guided tour (in several languages), which is not only in a very detailed museum and through displays, but also the real factory. The factory is only open from mid-June to mid-December. The museum gives you a nice overview of the different types of sweets. Two types of Turrón (Alicante and Jijona), are best known. You can really feel the centuries-old tradition of Turrón in the museum. A beautiful and detailed representation of traditional and modern production methods, right down to Turrón's packaging over the years. A highlight is a beautiful old Turrón delivery with a Rolls Royce truck. At the end of the tour you will have the chance to buy the different types of Turrón.

Aqua Parks

Do you like water? Maybe this is something for you! Giant slides, white water rapids, rafting and so on. While you enjoy a drink, the children come down the slides at breakneck speed! There are no fewer than three large aqua parks in the vicinity. Keep in mind that these parks are not open all year round. In any case, you can visit here from mid-June to mid-September, but there are also parks with a longer opening period.

Rio safari

If you like game, that is to say to see, then you can go to the Rio Safari park in Elche. This is a small animal park which includes a crocodile farm. You can drive through here with a train. However, if you want to go to a larger park, you should definitely take a look at Safari Park Aitana. A large area has been cordoned off in the middle of the mountains. You can drive through here by car. And if you want, you can also get out for a while to, for example, pet the elephants that are standing somewhere drinking. The really dangerous animals, such as tigers and lions, are behind fences, but the rest just roam free.
www.riosafari.com

costa-info.com for even more costa outings

Safari Inland

"Awesome!" , “So enjoyed it!” , "where else do you find this?" These are just a few quotes from an outback safari. In the beautiful interior of Spain and only a 30-minute drive from the coast, you will still find the Spanish atmosphere here. Arriving at the starting point, you can enjoy delicious coffee and a look inside a cave house. During the safari you will pass surprisingly untouched nature! You will travel along mountain trails or through flowing water to remote parts of the Spanish interior. Along the way you will come across many regional products, such as almond and olive trees. Fig trees and even bamboo! After a wonderful tour, join the fully catered BBQ and end a strenuous day while enjoying a snack and a drink (or more….).

Fair Torrevieja

On the boulevard in Torrevieja, a large and touristic coastal town, you will find a large night market every day from about three o'clock where you can buy all kinds of souvenirs. During the season it is very busy here, especially because of the large fair just next to the boulevard. This can be visited daily and only starts to get really cozy from about nine o'clock. The children also walk around here until the late hours with all their trophies, which they won that evening. Yet there is certainly also entertainment for adults, because for the real daredevils there are several major attractions.

Go karting on the Costa Blanca

There are a lot of go-kart tracks on the Costa Blanca. Because of the nice climate you can show your racing skills here all year round. Karting is also one of the options for small children. There are special children's karts with less power and for the very little ones there are also duo karts. Here you can sit together with your child, and while you steer your child enjoys the race next to you. Some courses have a separate track where children can ride a Quad or a dirt bike

water sports

Of course you can enjoy yourself on the Costa Blanca, if you like water sports. There are various possibilities such as jet skiing, surfing, diving, sailing, water skiing, parasailing and in Santa Pola there is a school for kite surfing. There is a lot of diving near the island of Tabarca. Here you can enjoy the beautiful underwater life of the Mediterranean.

Guadalest

Guadalest is part of the infamous castle route. The large, steep rock, on which a church steeple with a flat roof, is a veritable eagle's nest, on which the Spanish-Arab half-breeds, expelled from the Levant in 1609, could remain for some time. Through a tunnel drilled in the rock one enters the town, with its miniature museums, the cozy shops, a noble residence, the town hall and the church. If you take a day out, you can visit the beautiful safari park “Aitana” on the way there or back. This is a large nature reserve, where the fence is so far away that you can hardly see it and the wild animals run loose, as in normal nature. You can drive through here by car and get out here and there to view or even touch the animals up close. Also a visit to the waterfalls “Les Fonts de l'Algar”, nearby, is definitely worth it.

shell house

This shell house is definitely worth a visit. Everything is designed and made by Don Manuel Fulleda Alcaraz. From the age of seven he collected large and small shells on the beaches of Guardamar del Segura and La Manga del Mar Menor. These shells now adorn the walls and patio of his home. The mosaics are very diverse from circles and flowers to animals. In total there are 600m2 of walls covered with about 550,000 shells. The shell house can be viewed at Calle Rodeo No. 10 in Rojales.

Mundomar

Near the seaside resort of Benidorm is this beautiful park, called Mundomar, with its dolphins, sea lions, penguins and many other animals. Of course there are various shows, such as a beautiful dolphin show. The park is located on a mountain slope and you have a view over the entire surrounding area.
www.mundomar.es

costa-info.com for even more costa outings

Golfing in Spain

Spain, with its beautiful white beaches where you can walk for hours, is a very popular destination for many people. But apart from the beach, sea and sun, Spain is also a popular golf destination. Numerous golf courses can be found, especially on the Costa Blanca. The golf course is right outside your holiday home. This group of tourists has increased in recent years. Especially the climate, but also the many beautifully landscaped golf courses and resorts count in this. Spain has more than 300 golf courses and also has quite a number of enthusiastic golfers. Several golf courses are surrounded by apartments and bungalows. It is never really busy on the Spanish golf courses, but the golf courses are usually hilly.

Places and places that are really worth seeing

There are several places and places that are really worth visiting once. Not going to the beach for a day? The Costa Blanca also has a lot to offer and there are various excursions. On a water scooter, to the zoo or on safari, there is something for everyone to do.

Tabarca: The island of Tabarca, formed by two islands connected by an isthmus, has developed into one of the attractions of the province. It is located 22 kilometers from the city district of Alicante, and also belongs to this municipality. It contains a protected marine reserve, where one can find the widest variety of fish species from the entire province. There are several beautiful diving locations. You can depart from both Alicante and Torrevieja on a beautiful boat where, in most cases, you can sit at the bottom of the floats of the boat, so that you have a beautiful view of the underwater life of the Mediterranean. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, after which you will be dropped off at the island so that you can explore it at your leisure. At the end of the day you will be picked up again and taken back to the port.

Busot: In Busot you can visit a beautiful cave. The journey there is worth it alone, but you should count on an hour's drive.

Elche: Of Iberian origin, it was called Helike among the Greeks and Illici among the Romans. The city bears the stamp of the long Moorish rule. Elche still has an African impression with its narrow streets and alleys, with the white houses and the flat roofs. In the mid-13th century, Ferdinand III of Castile conquered the city for Christian Spain. Since 1296 she belonged to the Kingdom of Valencia. Three things make up Elche's fame: the palm forest, the medieval mystery game and the Dame de Elche.

The palm forest: The city is surrounded on three sides by the largest palm forest in Europe with about 170,000 date palms. Some of these are more than 200 years old and often reach a height of 40 meters. Every year, the whole of Spain obtains the palms for Palm Sunday from Elche. The construction of the palm forest probably goes back to the Cathagers, but in Moorish times it was especially cared for; After all, Africa's sons saw the tree of their homeland in the palm. In the Huerto del Cura, part of the forest, rises an exceptionally beautiful palm, the Palmera del Cura, also called Palmera Imperial, which trunk divides into seven arms.

Misterio de Elche: The medieval mystery play is performed annually on August 14 and 15 in the Church of Santa Marí; it depicts the death and Assumption of Mary. Only men play and sing the game in the old Catalan language. In addition to Mary, there are also apostles, angels, saints, Jews and the Holy Trinity. Elche's mystery play would have been the model for the much later Italian operas that came into being.

Dame de Elche: The female limestone bust, on which traces of paintings can still be seen, was found in 1897 in La Alcudia, 2 km south of Elche and has made the name of the city known all over the world. This work of art from the 4 th to the 3 rd century BC. belongs to the Iberian-Greek culture and is now in the archaeological museum in Madrid. There is a copy of the bust in the archaeological museum of Elche.

Also worth seeing: Near the Santa María Church is the Calahorra Gate, which belonged to the Moorish city district. The gate got its present appearance in the 15th century. On the Plaza Mayor is the Casa del Ayutamiento (town hall) from the 17th /18th century; along the facade beautiful balconies. The tower, Torre del Consell, dates from the 15th century. Also worth seeing is the Fortaleza de la Señoria (also called Palacio de Altamira). The fortress was built in the 15th century and was the residence of the Counts of Altamira. A Moorish castle previously stood here, which temporarily also housed the kings of Aragon and the "Catholic kings".

Las Fuentes del Algar: is a beautiful place where a waterfall flows from a natural spring. It is absolutely worth going here for a day. You can also enter the water here. There are several places where you can dive into the clear and very cold water. This certainly gives a wonderful cooling in the summer. For those who prefer to cool down in a different way, there is a restaurant, where you can look out on one of the waterfalls from the terrace. Outside the entrance gate are several stalls where all kinds of souvenirs can be bought. When you are looking for a parking space, don't let the first person indicate a parking space. After all, it is not free and you still have a long way to walk. So feel free to drive until you see the entrance and try to find a spot there.

Cave houses: On the entire Costa Blanca you will find cave houses here or there. They are often hidden from view, because only the front of the house can be seen. Often nothing stands out at first glance, but usually the part behind the facade is built entirely in a rock. These are originally caves, which are now used, among other things, as living space. You can visit such cave houses in the village of Rojales. They are often used by artists, who exhibit their products there. The route is indicated by signs “cuevas”.

costa-info.com for more costa outings

Costa Calida

The Costa Cálida (Spanish for warm coast) is located south of the Costa Blanca and north of the Costa de Almeria in the Murcia region. The main city in this region is Cartagena, which also has one of the most important ports in the country.

Here are some tips for the Costa Calida:

Archena's Spa

At Balneario de Archena you have a truly authentic Spanish wellness experience. The history and charm that this place exudes is impressive! The Spa facilities are modern and very extensive. The thermal treatments are wonderfully relaxing. All programs are supervised by a doctor specialized in hydrology. If you want to discover the real Spain far away from the mass tourism of the Spanish Costas, this is the perfect choice for you! Here you can relax in a beautiful natural environment and your stress disappears like snow in the sun...

Salt Lakes in San Pedro del Pinatar

Combine a visit to the mud baths with the salt lakes in San Pedro del Pinatar. San Pedro del Pinatar is also a great base from which to explore the Costa Cálida.Natural Park Salinas de San Pedro is a protected nature reserve of no less than 850 hectares. Here you can spot flamingos, cormorants and waders, among other things. So don't forget your binoculars!

There are several walking routes indicated, such as the 'Sendero de el Coterillo' and the 'Sendero Azul Senda de los Tarays'. Along the way you will come across beautiful deck paths and viewing huts. You can find more information about the area and the walking routes in the visitor center.

Tip: In the port of San Pedro del Pinatar you can order tasty and cheap daily menus. Restaurant Torombolo is highly recommended.

Mud baths Las Charcas in Lo Pagán

Some people pay a lot of money for a mud treatment. However, in Lo Pagán it is completely free! The combination of salt, shallow water and the sun creates the thick layer of mud on the bottom.

The mud has great therapeutic value and helps against many ailments such as arthritis, gout and rheumatism. Older people in particular make use of the mud baths.

There are special jetties, so you can easily get into the water. Scoop some mud from the bottom and spread it all over your body. After that, the mud must dry until it is a hard layer. Finally, rinse the mud back in the salt water and you'll look 10 years younger again. A must do if you are in the Murcia area!

Tip: The Mud Baths can be visited free of charge all year round, but the water is nice and warm, especially in summer. Park for free in Calle Campoamor.

History in Cartagena

There are not many beautiful and large cities on the Costa Cálida. Cartagena, however, is an exception. This beautiful port city has a long checkered history and is one of the oldest cities in Spain.

Evidence of this includes the Roman theater and castle (Castillo de la Concepción). The town hall and the cathedral are also architectural gems. Shoppers can indulge themselves in Calle Mayor, a pleasant shopping street.

Tip: Stroll along the beautiful boulevard along the harbor or admire the sunset from the Castillo de la Concepción.

Eating Tapas in Murcia

Murcia is not the city you should necessarily go to if you are staying in the area. There are some festivities that are not to be missed, such as the 'El bando de la Huerta' and 'Semana Santa'. The atmosphere is boisterous during these periods and beautiful processions can be admired.

There are not many places of interest in Murcia. However, the cathedral is worth a visit. Especially the outside looks nice. Be sure to eat tapas when you are in Murcia. Near the cathedral you will find many nice tapas bars where you can eat very well for little money!

Places and places that are really worth seeing

Natural areas, hiking and mountains in the Murcia area. In the vicinity of Murcia you see mountains and deserted roads everywhere. So feel free to go out into nature. Walking here is a challenge. There are few to no marked hiking trails. This is in contrast to walks on the Costa Blanca. Sometimes it seems like a no man's land where they would rather not see tourists. However, the advantage is that you often don't meet anyone here in the mountains.

• Cabo Cope y Puntas de Calnegre: The Cabo Cope y Puntas de Calnegre Natural Park is located near the beautiful Calabardina. This remote area is also a paradise for nature lovers. The Cabo Cope Natural Trail starts at the beach in Calabardina. Hike up the dragon-shaped mountain (Cabo Cope). From the tower you look out over the bay of Calabardina and the mountains behind it. Very nice to do if you are in the Murcia area. Then continue to Cala Blanca Beach to admire extraordinary rock formations. Birds and other animals live in the hollowed out caves. A swim at this secluded beach is a must! The nature reserve is also ideal for mountain biking. Tip: Have something to eat in Restaurant Calabardina on the beach.

• Sierra Espuna
• Carrascoy y El Valle
• Sierra de la Pila
• Valle de Ricote y Cieza

Food & Drink in Murcia

• Around the Plaza de Belluga in Murcia: Vinoteca de la Torre is an excellent starting point at the Plaza de Belluga. Especially if you want to get acquainted with the Murcia wines. The wine list also features several other Spanish wine regions. A tip: order a delicious cheese platter with it - a wonderful combination with the vinos!
• La pequeña Taberna: La Pequeña Taberna is one of the restaurants in Murcia that is almost mandatory to visit. The quality of the food, the variety of the menu, the excellent service and personal treatment will make you fall in love with this restaurant
• Restaurante El Churra: Typically Spanish. That's the restaurant El Churra. From simple tapas, such as the well-known Murcian tapa 'marineras' (Russian salad with anchovies on a breadstick) to a tasty steak
• Madre de Dios: A slightly simpler, but certainly tasty and affordable restaurant is Madre de Dios. Another well-known one in Murcia.El Pasaje de Zabalburu: Are you in for a more luxurious tapas place? Then go to El Pasaje de Zabalburu. It is also called 'La Barra de moda' (the trendy bar).

Costa Del Sol

Lovely coves and miles of beaches. The Costa del Sol has a lot to offer for sunbathers and winter visitors. But Andalusia has plenty of other places to soak up the authentic atmosphere.

1 † Ronda Eagle's Nest in the mountains, best known for the picturesque Puente Nuevo that spans a deep gorge. Picturesque old town with Moorish influences, and the oldest Plaza de Toros in Spain.

2. Cala del Cañuelo Beautiful bay with pebble beach and crystal clear water within a protected nature reserve. It is located thirteen kilometers east of Nerja, and can only be reached by shuttle bus or on foot (a two kilometer walk).

3. Málaga , capital of the Costa del Sol.

  Málaga is a bustling capital. It can be used as a day trip, but the city also has everything you need for a successful city trip : culture, shops, good food and beautiful city beaches.

4. Cuevas de Nerja

A few kilometers from Nerja are the world famous caves . Part of it is open to the public and well worth a visit.

5. Caminito del Rey

Once a perilous hiking trail above a deep gorge . The 'King's Path' was recently renovated and is now perfectly in order for an exciting walking tour. Not for small children and people with a fear of heights.

6. Puerto Banus

A marina for those with a luxurious lifestyle. Think expensive brand stores, extravagant yachts, Ferraris and Porsches.

7. The most beautiful village in Andalusia

Frigiliana is a photogenic, white village in the interior, repeatedly voted the most beautiful in Andalusia. In the old part of the city you make a trip back to the time of the Moors and the Reconquista.

Nightlife tips in Costa Del Sol

The roof terraces of hotels are super nice and beautiful:

• Room Mate Larios Hotel
• Hotel Malaga Palacio
• La Terraza de la Aduana
• Hotel Molina Lario Piscina Lounge
• Terraza del AC Malaga Palacio
• Oasis Lounge
• Terraza del Hotel Salles Málaga-Centro
• La Terraza de la Alcazaba – Alcazaba Premium Hostel
• Terraza Soho Bahia Hotel
• Terraza del Parador de Gibralfaro
• Terraza Lob de El Corte Ingles

Restaurants:

• Taberna la Gloria – street; Calle Beatas 51, very tasty, beautiful and fun.
• Tapas fried fish, quick and delicious; Bar Pepa y Pepe, street; Calle Caldereria 9-Málaga
• Casa Lola bistro street; Calle Granada 46, Malaga.
• El Pimpi, street; Calle Granada 62 Malaga.