Spain - Villajoyosa

 

Villajoyosa Spain

A another beautiful town on the Costa Blanca is called Villajoyosa. It is a much quieter town than the famous or infamous town of Benidorm which is approx. 10 km km away. 

Villajoyosa Spain

The meaning of the name is "Joyfull" and one can see why. The houses are all beautifully painted in soothing pastels and the more vibrant darker shades. With pavement cafes lining the beachfront, it exudes a peaceful vibe with possibly a more vibrant buzz during the peak summer months. Local refer to their town as "La Vila" 

Villajoyosa Spain

  Villajoyosa boasts a number of beautiful beaches so there is a beach here for everybody.

The Main beach is called Playa la Villsjoyosa and offers a huge beach with the stunning backdrop of colourful houses, clear seas, palm trees and white sand.

Unfortunately, we did not have enough time to explore all the beaches in this area.

It would be well worth a few days here to truly enjoy the summer vibe and the cool, clear waters/

The following information below re the beaches is from:

 www.servigroup.com 

https://www.servigroup.com/en/things-to-do-in/villajoyosa/beaches/

Contact them for accommodation in the Villajoyosa

FOR NATURE LOVERS

Cala Fonda

This is a small bay located to the north of Villajoyosa notable for its cliffs. It is mostly rocky and consequently uncrowded.

Access is difficult but worth the effort to enjoy the lovely scenery and exuberant vegetation, perfect to explore the spectacular views or practice naturism as it is isolated from other beaches.

PINES EMERGING FROM THE SEA

Racó Conill

Surrounded by a virgin forest, turquoise waters and incredible views, Racó Conill is a secluded, intimate 160 metre-long beach recognised as one of Villajoyosa's naturist beaches.

Access is by a road in good condition that starts from the old Villajoyosa Casino and leads to a small parking lot. From there, well-constructed walkways will take you to the beach.

EUCALYPTUS TREES AND CRYSTALLINE WATERS

Playa el torres

El Torres beach is a 560 metre-long rustic beach consisting mainly of gravel that is not usually crowded. Its surroundings, near the El Torres camping ground, are semi-urban. It has a snack bar and a small parking area.

FOR MANY PEOPLE IT IS THEIR BEST SECRET

Playa del Tío Roig

This beach, which forms the coast north of the town of La Vila next to the Los Estudiantes beach, is 160 metres long.

It is not usually crowded. It is a secluded beach with a boardwalk and is accessible by car or on foot, but is composed of stones and boulders so caution is advised.

FOR THOSE OF US WHO LIKE STONE COVES

Playa de los Estudiantes

Los Estudiantes beach (also known as Playa Varadero as it was formerly the beaching area for boats) is near the fishing port and is composed of alternating gravel and boulders.

Its main feature is that it is located in a semi-urban area and is easily accessible on foot. It is 140 metres long and provides services such as a snack bar, toilets and rubbish bins in a very relaxed, friendly atmosphere. there is also a short path to the harbour and nearby parking area

THE TYPICAL BEACH

Playa del Centro

This is Villajoyosa's most extensive beach. A blue-flag beach of fine golden sand, it is 1,830 metres in length.

It is provided with all the facilities one would expect in a first-class beach such as foot washing stations, snack bar, pedal-boat rentals, children's playgrounds and facilities for sports such as beach volleyball (nets) and beach football (goals).

There are also several points of interest in the surrounding area such as the marina, a palm-lined promenade next to the beach, bars, cafés and restaurants and various car parks.

In the high summer season there are also Accessible Beach facilities for people with disabilities at the end known as Basseta de L’Oli, nearest the port.

It is the ideal place to spend the day with the family and the mild climate means that it can be enjoyed all year round.

TAKE A BREAK A FEW STEPS FROM THE CITY

Cala Mallaeta

Located between Playa del Centro and Playa del Paraíso and surrounded by spectacular cliffs, this bay is some distance from the town and is only accessible on foot. It is peaceful, uncrowded and mainly composed of rocks and boulders.

Because of its location and the nature of the surroundings it is considered a natural beach and has no services.

IT SHOWS OFF ITS NAME

Playa del Paraíso

The aptly named 1 km-long Playa del Paraíso is a natural area composed of sand and stone.

In summer it is relatively quiet, with only moderate numbers of users. It is located in a semi-urban environment with the presence of numerous palms. Its isolated location makes it perfect for a quiet swim.

Its main services include a snack bar, free parking in the surrounding area, sun-bed and parasol rental, foot washing stations, lifeguards and a pedestrian and cycle path.

BOHEMIAN SPIRIT FROM SUNRISE TO SUNSET

Playa del Bol Nou

Bol Nou beach is in an unspoilt cove of great charm and crystal clear waters located in a small bay between two rocky outcrops.

The sea is calm and sheltered most of the year and the gravel and sand beach stretches 237 metres at the head of the bay.

It is located to the south of the town near the Montíboli housing estate. There is no promenade but the surrounding area offers numerous on-street parking places.

It is a blue-flag beach with foot washing stations, lifeguard service and snack bar.

A CORNER TO GET LOST

Playa del Esparrelló

Tucked between the cliffs bordering one of the most famous luxury hotels in the area, the Esparrelló beach is a discrete cove accessed along a path located near a housing estate. Its air of exclusivity makes it one of the most highly considered naturist beaches of the entire Costa Blanca.

THE LIGHT OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

Playa de la Caleta

La Caleta is a small beach (139 metres long) located near a well-known hotel and can be accessed along a short path located behind the building.

It is composed of boulders, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

The surrounding low cliffs provide shady areas in the early afternoon and invite the visitor to enjoy a relaxing swim in the deep blue waters.

SCENE OF PIRATE AND PRIVATEER BATTLES

Playa del Xarco

This small cove with difficult access is one of the treasures of Villajoyosa. Located in a natural setting it is dominated by seventeenth-century defensive tower called Torre del Xarco and exudes a special magic thanks to its location.

It is 216 metres long, uncrowded and especially peaceful.

  Wandering in the Old Town was such fun, exploring narrow streets, gazing upon all the vibrant colours, people watching at pavement cafes, the historic city walls and the innovative art works depicting the colourful houses.

Villajoyosa Spain

Villajoyosa Spain

Villajoyosa Spain

Besides all the Spanish food available Villajoyosa is also famous for it's chocolate making. The best known is Valor. Free tours are available and this business was founded in 1881 and has seen 5 generations of folk at the helm in carrying on this wonderful tradition. For the chocoholics, a tour here is a must.

https://www.valor.es/museo-del-chocolate/

So, while most of us visit for the beaches, there is more to enjoy and explore in this joyful town 

A combination of chocolate, amazing Mediterranean beaches, the incredible palette of architecture, historic walls and cheerful cafes make this fishing village a must do on any traveller's bucket list.

Although Villajoyosa supposedly has great weather for most of the year, the rain suddenly came down so we had to dash for the car and head back to Calpe in a hectic thunderstorm and torrential rain. Thankfully, the local drivers put on their hazards, drove slowly and very carefully until the rain eased off in Calpe. 

Villajoyosa Spain

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Spain - Benidorm

Mime Artist in Benidorm Spain

Pensioners Benidorm

Benidorm Costa Blanca Spain

Benidorm's reputation is one of all day and night partying! Perhaps it deserves this reputation for all the Hen parties and Stag nights that take place here. However, it is a happy place to visit so don't be put off if you are not a night owl.

We saw many pensioners riding on their hired scooters - only in Benidorm!




One thing you must be careful of is making sure that you pay for parking.
The machines are not always immediately visible so do ask a passer by or walk down the street.
Blue Zones - Paid Parking
Light Blue Zones - Payable in Summer
Orange Zones - Residents only
Green Zones - Residents Only
Blue and Green - Payable in Summer
Pink - Loading Bay only
Please do check official sites for updates as these may change from time to time 


Other places to visit include, but are not limited to:
 Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana - built in the 18th Century. The Virgin of Suffrage is the Patron Saint of Benidorm together with St James
 Benidorm Town Hall, known as the "groundscraper"
The facade is covered with thick glass slats bearing the names of 60,000.00 registered inhabitants at the time of completion. 

L'Aiguera Park, Sequia Mare and Sequia Mare Park 

Pilgrims Route to Santiago
This sets off from the church of San Jaime. It is 1140 km from here to Santiago de Compostela. 
This route is a must for many people from young to older. 

Beaches of Benidorm Spain

The Costa Blanca region of Spain is a tourist mecca with gorgeous beaches, many days of sunshine annually, plenty to see and do, plus loads of restaurants 

Benidorm has beautiful Blue Flag beaches - Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniete. The viewpoint of "Punta Canfali" divides the two beaches. The view point is divided into two parts - the upper area has benches and rest areas and then some fairly steep steps take one down to the area closer to the sea.

Benidorm Spain

This area is the site of the castle that was built in 1325 to ward off attacks by Algerian and Berber pirates in the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. Partially demolished in the 15th century, repaired and then totally destroyed during the War of Independence in the 19th century. The current viewpoint balustrades were designed for the town of Benidorm and have become an iconic sight for tourists.

Benidorm Spain

 The promenades along the beaches boast many shops and restaurants and offer lovely walks taking in the sights. Great for people watching while having a meal, beer or coffee. The vibe is happy and carefree - ideal for holidays in the sunshine. The beaches are protected from storms by the bay and the surrounding mountains. 

All in all, this coast of Spain is well worth a visit at least once if not more than once!

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Spain - Morella Medieval Village

 

Morella Medieval town of Spain

Exploring in any country is a must - there is always so much to experience and absorb. The medieval town of Morella sounded fascinating with a long and varied history. So off we headed away from the coast and into the hills. At first the fields were full of citrus - this gradually changed to beautiful olive groves that looked very regal and majestic. Up and up we climbed to approx.1000m above sea level.

The first glimpse of this walled, medieval city was simply breathtaking. We stopped the car in the village below to capture this incredible sight. The weather was rather gloomy but this did not detract from our amazement as we gazed upon this ancient, walled town.

Morella Spain

Morella appears to have its own micro climate and Wikipedia records that the hottest day ever reached and recorded was on 16th August 1925 when the temperature reached a staggering 40 degrees C. Given the high altitude of this village this must have had the locals feeling the heat! And then on 17th December 1933 the locals had a minimum temperature of -17 degrees C. This day must have had everybody staying indoors, trying to keep warm.

Ancient walls Morella Spain

Shopping in Morella Spain

Narrow Streets Medieval Morella 

Below Morella Spain

Agriculture still plays a part in the economy and prized black truffles are traded at markets during winter. Pig and poultry farming still take place although tourism now plays a larger role in the economy.  


"In the late seventeenth century, Morella was severely affected by the plague. After twenty years of suffering, the citizens brought a statue of the Virgin Mary from the Sanctuary of Vallivana, 24 kilometres (15 mi) away, at the feet of the Serra de Vallivana range, and processed it through the streets. It is said that the plague disappeared from the city and, to remember this, every six years the Sexenni festival takes place for nine days in late August. The virgin is carried in procession and the traditional town guilds perform ancient dances in her honour. The festivities in 2006 were the first of the 21st century" 
Courtesy Wikipedia

Walking the narrow streets was very humbling - just thinking of the long history of this walled town that has stood for centuries and has seen so many battles yet has survived albeit with a much smaller population these days.

We wandered the maze of streets fearing that we would never find our car again - this was somewhat daunting to say the least. The sudden, very load thunder that reverberated along the ancient walls nearly fooled us into thinking that an enemy attack was imminent!

 

As we rounded a corner, we came upon a row of shops and this calmed us down somewhat after the terrifying thunder. The shops were colourful, cheerful and were very well stocked with local fare such as honey and cheese. As well as the various touristy items that one tends to buy! 

Morella is rated as one of the prettiest towns in Spain and one can truly see this from the first glance. 

If times permits there are plenty of beautiful buildings to explore such as the Basilic Church of Santa Maria, the Gates of San Miguel, the Convent of San Francesc. Our time was unfortunately limited so I would suggest that you stay at least 1 or 2 nights to gain the entire experience and enjoy eating at one of the restaurants. The weather was dark and gloomy when we visited but it was still an awesome medieval village to visit and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience.  Immersing oneself into such ancient history makes for goose bumps and maybe even a nightmare or two afterwards. 

As the 2 bright yellow twins appear to say "Please come again, the sun does come out sometimes" 

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Spain - Denia - East Coast

 

Denia Costa Blanca Spain

Denia: Costa Blanca, Spain

Denia lies on the East Coast of Spain in the area known as the Costa Blanca.

The charm of the city lies both seaside and by exploring the town's various districts as well as the castle.

We were amazed at the number of cars parked in every available space. Given the huge number of apartment blocks in Denia I suppose this does explain the sheer volume of cars. 

Denia Spain - Sailors out for a fun event

The Marina of Denia has over 500 moorings and we chanced upon a number of yachts heading out in the glorious sunshine while enjoying our ramble along the promenade. 

Denia Castle Spain

"Built on top of a cliff overlooking the coast, inhabited and fortified since Roman times, Denia castle is the symbol of the city. It is an unmissable attraction for those who spend their holidays in the area.

The fortress, that has been declared a "Monument of Cultural Interest" by the Spanish Government, was built in the 11th century, during the period of the Arab domination. The original architectural style was Almohad, but over the centuries the complex has undergone numerous changes and reconstructions. Today it is possible to identify elements added during the Renaissance period and the 18th century, as well as the remains of a Roman settlement".

"Denia, the capital of the Marina Alta area at the northern end of Alicante province has had a castle since Roman times when the town was known as Dianum but its main development came with the conquest of the area by the Moors. Built on a rocky promontory overlooking the town and the sea, the castle can be seen from anywhere in town. The impressive arched entrance dates from Moorish times but inside various buildings date from the castles development over the centuries". 

Denia Spain

Pavement cafes abound in the streets running up from the harbour - great for people watching, wandering the shops and enjoying some lunch in the old town. 

"Denia's historical centre is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and ancient neighbourhoods; of elegant buildings and old fishermen's houses; colourful and modern streets and alleys with an ancient flavour".

Irish Pub Denia Spain

"Once you arrive in the port area, you can visit the barrio Baix la Mar, the old seaside district. Located just below the castle, this neighbourhood is shaped by narrow streets and characteristic fisherman houses, with picturesque facades painted in pastel colours. In the area closest to the port there are many bars and restaurants where you can taste some excellent fresh fish".

We walked thru this tunnel - it was very scary or so it felt at the time. In later years used to ripen bananas of all things and now currently this walkway. There is information of the walls given all the history - well worth the walk thru.

Denia is naturally also famous for it's beaches being on the Mediterranean sea - with approx. 15km of various beaches there is something for everyone. Platja Punta del Raset is long and wide.

Las Rostos lies to the south and Las Marinas lies North

Platja Punta del Raset

Our favourite daily walk was along the boardwalk in the south part of Denia where we joined many locals all out walking with their children and their dogs. Or a group of ladies chatting away as they strolled along without a care in the world. It was lovely to see all the happy faces. The restaurants along this promenade had lovely views, both of the mountain and the sea. It was great fun going here for a meal.

All in all a great town to explore - lots of walking, plenty of restaurants, beaches for everyone, interesting shops and lovely views all around. The only negative is the parking! But one does eventually find a spot, albeit pretty far from where you actually want to be!

Until next time,

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