Category: ACTIVE LIFE

Hiking routes Vall de Pop

ACTIVE LIFE, LOCAL LIFE, TRAVEL COSTA BLANCA, TRAVEL WITH KIDS

The local tourist office of Vall de Pop organizes guided walks. This spring you can accompany them at hiking routes in the valley or urban routes in the villages. The guided walks are – depending the route – in Castellano, Valenciano or English. We listed up all hiking routes in Vall de Pop.

Urban routes

  • 23/04/23 Parcent (English)
  • 29/04/23 Xaló/ Jalón (Castellano, Valenciano)
  • 04/06/23 Senija (Castellano, Valenciano)
  • 18/06/23 Benigembla (English)
  • 08/07/23 Llíber (English

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Hiking routes

  • 30/04/23 Senija – 10,6 km – medium
  • 06/05/23 Murla – 8 km – easy
  • 21/05/23 Benissa – 9 km – medium
  • 27/05/23 Llíber – 10 km – medium
  • 28/05/23 Benigembla – 9 km – difficult
  • 11/06/23 Murla – 8 km – easy

Subscribe by sending a Whatsapp to Maria at +34 – 616 043 173. For more information check the website of Vall de Pop Tourist Office.

More hiking in Vall de Pop

Vall de Pop is known for the large amount of hiking trails. The trails marked with yellow-white and red-white signals are official hiking routes. An overview of these trails are at the website of the tourist office.

If you like more information about hiking, check our posts about active life at the Costa Blanca, Marina Alta, Jalón Valley and Vall de Pop here. So, put your hiking boots on and discover hiking routes Vall de Pop!

Tourist information Marina Alta

ACTIVE LIFE, ENJOY THE BEACHES, HOTSPOTS, LOCAL LIFE, TRAVEL COSTA BLANCA, TRAVEL WITH KIDS

The Costa Blanca is a popular destination. So there’s a lot of tourist information about the Marina Alta region. It’s impossible to mention it all on our website. Of course, we post our favourites, local hotspots and the best tips and tricks.

The Costa Blanca can roughly be divided in two parts: Costa Blanca south and Costa Blanca north. Our stays are in Costa Blanca north, which stretches from Alicante up to Dénia. The Costa Blanca north consists of several smaller regions, like the Marina Alta.

The Marina Alta is limited by Calp in the south and Dénia in the north. It goes inland up to Vall de Gallinera and Vall de Pop. So, a small region but with plenty to do. You’ll find pristine beaches, unspoiled nature and typical Spanish villages. The region is also known for it’s gastronomy, craftwork and local traditions.

A short overview where to find tourist information about the Marina Alta:

When you book a stay with us, we’re happy to help you with personalized recommendations. If you like tourist information about the Marina Alta, a special region or especially with kids for example, we can make you a personalized trip. Also for the best restaurants, shopping addresses or what to do at a rainy day.

Best beaches Jávea Costa Blanca

ACTIVE LIFE, ENJOY THE BEACHES, HOTSPOTS

Jávea is unbeatable for the diversity and beauty of its beaches. Sandy beaches, rocky caves and pure nature. We listed up the best beaches in Jávea Costa Blanca.

Granadella

Playa la Granadella. This beach is a perfect horseshoe-shaped bay at the nature reserve Granadella. The intense blue water, dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean pines make it one of the most beautiful on the Costa Blanca. There is a beach bar and a few nearby restaurants. Granadella bay is famous for snorkelling and kayak. From the beach you can explore the caves at the seaside. Services: lifeguards, parking, restaurant, beach bar, boat and kayak rental, sun lounger rental.

Portitxol

Cala Portitxol. White sand, gravel and water of an intense blue. Together with the wonderful setting and the typical vegetation of the Costa Blanca, this results in a place of huge natural beauty. Portitxol has all the charms required for a perfect family day at the beach.

As a result Portitxol is one of the most photographed beaches in the area. The typical fisherman’s houses, blue doors and intense blue water. Take your camera with you! Services: lifeguards, beach bar, car park, sun lounger rental, kayak rental.

Arenal

Playa el Arenal. Arenal beach is the busiest beach on the Javea coast with fine sand and a slight slope in the shallow waters. The beach is really popular with families. Mainly because of the calm water playgrounds at the beach, and sports facilities. Furthermore the stretched boulevard with ample restaurants complete this hotspot.

Services: lifeguards, Red Cross, walkways, water skiing facilities, entertainment, sports area, foot bath and shower, access for people with reduced mobility, parking, public telephone, bus stop and taxi rank.

Furthermore

In summer a shuttle service is run by the townhall. This shuttle service concerns the beaches of Granadella, Portitxol and Cova Tallada. As a matter of fact the road will be closed and only access by shuttle service is available.

The shuttle service to Portitxol runs from Calle Tripoli next to Saladar supermarket. It is executed by minibus.The Granadella stop is at the urbanization of La Guardia Park. A bus stop is here since years ago. To Granadella runs a tourist train.

Basically the service will be provided from the beginning of the month of June during the weekends and from June 23 to September 10 on a daily basis, from 09:00 to 17:00 and with a minimum frequency of 50 minutes. Tickets are € 3. Check timetables to be prepared.

Best beaches Moraira Costa Blanca

ACTIVE LIFE, ENJOY THE BEACHES, HOTSPOTS

You’ll find all types of beaches at the Costa Blanca. Especially Moraira got beautiful, varied beaches. We checked all beaches and listed up the best beaches in Moraira Costa Blanca for you.

El Portet

Playa del Portet. One of the most idyllic beaches in the area: a beautiful cove with fine sand and beautiful clear water. Excellent for snorkling and watersports. Services: showers, accessible for disabled people, restaurants & bars, on street parking.

Moraig

Cala Moraig. This spectacular beach is not the most accessible beach in Moraira but believes us, it is worth the journey. Breathtaking scenery, dramatic cliffs, and crystal clear water are awaiting you. This beach is perfect if you want to escape the Moraira crowds and enjoy the beach away from built-up areas. The left end of the beach is an unofficial nudist beach so keep that in mind!

Ampolla

Playa Ampolla. With soft sand and shallow water, this is the most “family-friendly” beach in Moraira but also the busiest! The little ones can play safely on in the little stream that runs between the Barranc and the sea. They will also enjoy a playground, volleyball nets, shower and toilets as well as sunbed rentals. Services: beach bar, toilets, shower, lifeguard, free parking.

Furthermore

At the website of Moraira tourism there is much more information about the beaches and coves. You can also contact us to find out the best beaches in Moraira Costa Blanca for you.

Best beaches Benissa Costa Blanca

ACTIVE LIFE, ENJOY THE BEACHES, HOTSPOTS

Sandy beaches, pebbles, steep cliffs. You’ll find all types of beaches at the Costa Blanca. We checked all beaches and listed up the best beaches in Benissa Costa Blanca for you.

Baladrar

Cala Baladrar. El Baladrar Cove boasts a breathtaking landscape. As it is surrounded by cliffs, it opens up like a balcony onto the Mediterranean sea. It begins at the Sesters ravine and features a pebble beach. To access it you must go down some stairs. Once you reach the sea level a rocky inlet divides the cove in two sections: El Baladrar and La Goleta. The cove is protected from the easterly wind. Because of its shallow, clear waters and abundant marine flora and fauna it is perfect for diving. Services: the trendy beach bar Olalà, car park, toilets.

La Fustera

Cala la Fustera. This small, fine sand beach is surrounded by rocky outcroppings. Therefore it protects the beach and makes it a perfect shelter. The beach has a beautiful scenery with vegetation that practically reaches the sea itself and with crystal-clear waters.

Near this beach you will discover the La Fustera Cave. As it is 10 metres above sea level one can enjoy a magnificent view of the Benissa coastline and the Peñón de Ifach. Services: beach bar La Mandala, toilets, foot wash, lifeguards, blue flag, car park, playground and accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

L’Advocat

Cala l’Advocat. Undoubtedly the most outstanding feature of this cove is its small jetty that gives access to the sea. Additionally it’s worth a visit as the chiringuito L’Espigó serves excellent food. It has everything you need to spend a complete day at the beach. At first a small sandy area shielded from the waves that is perfect for children. Furthermore a wonderful underwater environment. The beach ends with a 47-metre cliff known as the Cantalar. Services: beach bar, toilets, foot wash, car park.

Lobella

Cala la Llobella. This is the most natural, peaceful and untamed cove of all. The discreet access ensures that it is seldom visited. It has a pebble beach and is ideal for underwater sports. For sure its most outstanding feature is the beautiful, wide open sea floor. The beach is framed by vegetation on the surface, with pine trees that practically reach the water.

Furthermore

At some beaches you can rent beds and sunshades or watersports equipment. Life guards are only present in summer. Parking is a challenge in summer. Therefore go early or park your car a bit further along the road. For more information about the best beaches in Benissa Costa Blanca, check Benissa’s tourism website.

Swimming pool in Llíber

ACTIVE LIFE, LOCAL LIFE

Llíber got its own swimming pool. Beside the large 25 meter pool a kids pond is present. It is open in summer every day from 11:00 to 14:00 and 16:00 to 20:00. Entrance is € 1; a monthly pass of € 20 can be obtained from the Town Hall. The swimmingpool is open from May until September.

You’ll find the pool next to the school at Benissa’s side entrance of Llíber. Beside the swimmingpool in Llíber, you’ll find public pools in Alcalalí, Benigembla, Benissa, Murla, Parcent and Jalon/ Xaló. More info can be found on the website of Vall de Pop.

When you stay in Ca la Vall, you’ll find plenty options for an active lifestyle. Beside the new swimmingpool there’s a petanque track in the village. In Jalon you can play padel or tennis in the sportshall, yoga & pilates at several studio’s or pump the weight in the local fitnesscentre.

For the outdoor lovers, check-out the climbing wall Peña Roja at Llíber. Or take your bike or walkingshoes and explore the region. Even horse riding is available.

On the other hand a less enervating activity is present in the village as well. At the public parking space on the Benissa side is a petanque track. So get the balls rolling!

Discover the Vías Verdes

ACTIVE LIFE

Vías Verdes (literally, “green-ways”) are one of the best kept outdoor secrets in the region. Discover the Vías Verdes at the Costa Blanca and travel off the beaten track.

Basically the Vías Verdes are old disused railway lines. They have been recovered and restaured for use by walkers and cyclists. It is a different, enjoyable and environmentally friendly way of getting to know Spain. The combination of sports, culture and nature makes it a perfect activity to do with families. Vías Verdes are accessible for all ages and with a basic level condition.

Where to found the Vías Verdes?

Vías Verdes are across whole Spain. Some of them are pretty close by our stays and worth a (day)trip. For example, in Dénia, Alcoi or Torrevieja there are Vías Verdes up to 10 km. Inland of Alicante is the beautiful Vía Verde of Maigmó. With 22 kilometres worth a trip and certainly an active work-out. Lunch halfway at the restaurant La Cierva with traditional food.

The Vía Verde at Dénia is a recommendable trip for families. An easy track manders through flowering orange fields, parallel at the sea. Above all the route is accessible for wheelchairs and kids, which makes it a real family trip. Start or close off the trip with a visit to Dénia Castle or a jump in the sea.

At the website of Vías Verdes you find all routes. Do you want to see more of the Spanish inland when staying in Ca la Vall? Discover the Vías Verdes in an attractive daytrip.

Rent your bike at the Costa Blanca

ACTIVE LIFE, PRACTICAL, TRAVEL COSTA BLANCA

The Marina Alta is the perfect destination for cyclists. Either if you like the MTB or road cycling. Rent your bike at the Costa Blanca and discover the best parts of the region.

Vall de Pop (Jalon Valley) is the unofficial MTB capital of the region with an extensive network of magnificent routes. The routes vary from easygoing until steep, rocky tracks. You can find yourself a way using the MTB network from this map or check out the official MTB Centre (Centro BTT Vall del Pop) in Parcent.

MTB

You can hire a bike at the MTB centre or book yourself a guided tour with Snakebite MTB Adventures. He also rents out bikes, but we can especially recommend his tours. Mike will let see the other side of the Marina Alta, far away from crowded beaches and buzzling towns. “Cycling across gravel roads, through vineyards, picturesque villages and passing small coves at the seaside, the mountain bike is ideal to surround yourself with beauty and tranquility”, as Mike says. Book your bike or trip at the website.

Road cycling

If you do prefer the racing bike, there are plenty options for bike rental and/ or guided tours in the region. Alta Bike Rental is situated in Vall de Pop and rents racing bikes, electric racing bikes and electric bikes. Bikes are brought to and taken from your home. Make sure you book on time as in the cycling season you may miss out. Book online your bike at the website.

Bike and fight offers customised bike tours to fight against cancer. Discover the Vall de Pop and surroundings with Tonio. Make a difference and book your tour or bike at the website.

Moraira Ebikes rent out normal ebikes for road use, as well guided tours on an ebike. The bike comes with a charger, free helmet (which is obligatory in Spain!) and a kids seat if necessary. Check out their website for prices and availability.

Best golf courses Costa Blanca

ACTIVE LIFE

Beside the challenging golf courses in the Marina Alta, the other parts of the Costa Blanca offers a wide variety of beautiful and challenging golf courses.

Las Rejas Club de Golf

This 9-hole Pitch & Putt course is located near the beach of Poniente in Benidorm. Ideal for starters, but also suitable for experienced players to practice the short game. It is a straight forward pay and play course, no frills, easy going for an enjoyable round of golf for all.

The holes are of medium difficulty and are a pleasure for both beginners and experienced players. They range in distance from 80 to 120 meters, some with water hazards. There is a small club house to complete your round.
Website

Sierra Altea Club de Golf (Altea Club de Golf)

Formerly known as the Don Cayo Golf Course, it opened in 1974 as a par 36, 9-hole course and later renamed Sierra Altea Club de Golf. It is one of the few clubs in the area that is wholly owned by the members, yet still welcomes visitors to play the course at any time, subject to availability. The track itself has improved significantly in recent years.

The course is located high above the coastal town of Altea in an area known as Altea Hills. It is characterized by the beautiful mountain view, the sea view and a beautiful restaurant with terrace. It offers a par 72 course that can be played as 9 or 18 holes and is a good test for players of all levels. Guests and golf clubs are welcome on this oldest and one of the most picturesque golf courses on the Costa Blanca.
Website

Sierra Cortina Club de Golf

Located in Finestrat on the outskirts of Benidorm, just off the AP7 motorway and next to the La Marina shopping center. This is also a short Pitch & Putt course, with 18 holes from 50 to 100 meters in length, with panoramic views of the sea and the city. It is a great course for beginners, but also experienced players will enjoy the various obstacles to overcome. Beginners can hit the track after just a few lessons, an official handicap is not necessary.

The shorter distances are great for older players and children, as the 18 holes can be played in just over two hours without much physical effort.
Website

Villaitana Wellness Golf and Business Resort

This resort is a modern 5 star spa and golf complex overlooking Benidorm. Benidorm’s skyline provides a postcard backdrop as you enjoy your round of golf. The Villaitana offers two golf courses (Levante and Poniente) with excellent facilities for golfers.

The championship Levante course is 6,612 meters long, has many hazards and wide but challenging fairways. During your round you can enjoy beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Finestrat Mountains. Campo de Poniente is a 3,858m long par 62 course with varied and challenging par 3 and par 4 holes. The layout of this course allows players of all levels to enjoy a great experience. It is shorter but requires more skills and can be very demanding. It allows players of all handicaps to enjoy a great experience.
Website

La Finca

La Finca Golf Club near Torrevieja is located in a beautiful natural setting with fantastic views. The amenities are available to anyone who enjoys golfing in the midst of nature, while enjoying beaches, sailing clubs and a host of other amenities just a few minutes away. Several lakes with running water and reeds along the course provide beauty and challenge to the game and provide a home to various migratory birds such as ducks and egrets. On the course itself we find olive trees and palms in front of a beautiful green background with a remarkable Mediterranean character.
Website

Oliva Nova Golf Resort

The Oliva Nova golf course was designed in 1992 by Spanish legend Severiano Ballesteros and is spread over 50 hectares. Its exceptional location and environment make this golf course one of the favorites of the Costa Blanca. This is because both the track itself and the top-level infrastructure make the terrain comfortable in every way. Water is a constant on this highly technical course with 18 alternating long and short holes. Only holes 1, 2, 13 and 14 have no water features, but the wind remains a very important element on the entire course.
Website

Las Colinas

Las Colinas Golf and Country Club is located in the southernmost tip of the province of Alicante, near Torrevieja, and has been voted one of the top 100 golf courses in Europe by Golf World magazine. The course, designed by renowned North American landscape architect Cabell B. Robinson, is a true competition course. The more than 7 km long golf course with 6 lakes, challenging curves and sand bunkers will appeal to everyone.

The driving range and practice area is of excellent quality. The modern clubhouse with a view over hole 18 is also worth a visit!
Website

Best golf courses Marina Alta

ACTIVE LIFE

Golf is a very popular sport on the Costa Blanca. You’ll find the best golf courses in the Marina Alta. Both 9 and 18 holes and both with and without sea view. An overview of some of the best courses in the Marina Alta.

Ifach San Jaime Club de Golf

The Ifach Golf Club, also known as the San Jaime Golf Course, is on the border of Benissa and Moraira. It enjoys one of the best views of the Costa Blanca, overlooking the Peñon de Ifach and the Mediterranean Sea. The design of the course makes it necessary to use all available clubs, you need total control during the tee off as well as on the approach. The course is a par 60 and has 9 holes, which vary in length from 70 to 288 meters.

Although the holes are short, they are technically demanding and difficult due to the many slopes and narrow fairways. A seemingly simple battle can turn into a nightmare. The distribution of trees and bunkers makes playing here challenging and varied.
Website

Javea Club de Golf

This golf club was opened in 1981, located just inland from the coastal town of Javea. The course has beautiful views of the surrounding countryside of the Marina Alta and the mountains. The course is divided into 9 holes, but you can also play a round of 18, where you can tee off the second round from another location.

The wide fairways give you the impression of a fairly easy course, but you have to be careful with the 34 bunkers scattered around the course. Also, all greens have subtle runs, many of which are difficult to estimate.
Website

La Sella Golf Resort

Located south of the city of Denia, this 27-hole gem is the work of the great José Maria Olazabal. La Sella is spread over three 9 holes and was the location for the Ladies European Tour four times between 1990 and 2010. This impressive golf course is surrounded by pine, almond and carob trees and offers beautiful views over the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.

La Sella has hosted many national team events, including the Peugeot Circuit. The three 9-hole course all take their name from the wind. Llebeig, the first 9 holes to the south, with spectacular views of the Montgó National Park. Technically difficult and you need almost all your clubs. Then Gregal, the second 9-hole course to the east. With water obstacles in a somewhat flatter environment and a final set of holes that normally set the difference. And finally, Mestral, the name of the wind when it blows from the north, also the direction of the last 9. The holes are located in an elevated area and offer spectacular views of the sea. A course to enjoy golf in a beautiful natural setting.
Website

Played out in the Marina Alta? Check our post about the best golf courses at the Costa Blanca.