Category: HOTSPOTS

Best rewarded restaurants Costa Blanca

HOTSPOTS, LOCAL LIFE

We already knew, but the secret is unvealed now by the Michelin Guide and Guía Respol. The Costa Blanca has one of the highest concentrations of best rewarded restaurants. The restaurants can be found from the buzzling city of Alicante to the countryside and into the mountains.

Last year it rained stars, sols and recommendations by these two guides. All different types of restaurants are represented: classic styles, new young chefs and, of course, the traditional Spanish kitchen. We yet visited most of them and can agree that they are worth a trip!

We only listed up the best restaurants in the Marina Alta. The other part of the Costa Blanca has many stars, sols and recommendations as well, but that makes the list even more extensive. So we limited it to the Marina Alta, which is roughly the part from Denia to Calpe. By clicking on the name of the guide you will find all restaurants at the Costa Blanca.

Michelin Guide

  • Quique Dacosta Denia ***
  • BonAmb Jávea **
  • Casa Pepa Ondara *
  • Audrey’s Calpe *
  • Peix i Brases Denia *
  • Beat Calpe *
  • Tula Jávea *
  • Casa del Maco Calpe R (recommendation)
  • Casa Cantó Benissa R
  • Casa Bernardi Benissa R
  • Komfort Calpe R
  • Orobianco Calpe R
  • El Baret de Miquel R
  • El Raset Denia R
  • Aticcook Denia R
  • Sand Moraira R
  • La Perla Jávea R
  • Tosca Jávea R
  • Volta i Volta Jávea R
  • El Carreter La Xara R

Guía Repsol

  • Quique Dacosta Denia ***
  • BonAmb Jávea ***
  • Casa Pepa Ondara **
  • Peix i Brases Denia **
  • Tula Jávea **
  • Beat Calpe **
  • Orobianco Calpe *
  • Audrey’s Calpe *
  • Casa Bernardi Benissa *
  • Aticcook Bruno Ruiz Denia *
  • El Baret de Miquel Denia *
  • Miró Cuina Benirrama R (recommendation)
  • Pont Sec Denia R
  • Sendra Denia R
  • Casa Federico Denia R
  • El Faralló Denia R
  • El Raset Denia R
  • El Trinquete Jávea R
  • Le Dauphin Moraira R
  • Sand Moraira R
  • Abiss Gastrobar Calpe R
  • Un cuiner a L’Escoleta Sagra R
  • Casa Canto Benissa R
  • Brou Pedreguer Solete
  • Rafel de Pego Solete
  • Café Bar Billy’s Moraira Solete
  • El Paraíso Parcent Solete
  • La Venta del Collao Vall de Laguar Solete

So, if you plan a trip to one of our stays don’t forget to reserve a table in one of these outstanding restaurants. The best rewarded restaurants at the Costa Blanca are waiting you!

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.

Top ten restaurants in Moraira

HOTSPOTS

It’s hard to list all the best restaurants in Moraira, but we give it a try. Moraira offers a wide range of restaurants, from typical Spanish until high-end restaurants. We’re pretty sure you’ll find lovely places to eat. Even outside this list.

  1. ARTESANO: Healthy, fresh food combined with an art gallery. Perfect spot for lunch or late breakfast. They offer plenty vegan and veggie options. Also take away
  2. CHIC: One of our favourite restaurants for a night out. The staff makes you feel more than welcome and give you a fantastic stay. The menu is Spanish-international and tasteful. At lunchtime they offer a lunch menu as well.
  3. EL RACÓ DE L’ARRÒS: You won’t find a better place for a traditional paella or fideúa (vermicelli style paella, typical from Comunidad Valencia)
  4. Cafe Bar Billy’s. Our hidden gem in Moraira. From the reknown Dénia chef Miquel Ruiz. Amazing, extremely tasteful tapas to share. The staff is outstanding and super friendly. They make you feel come home
  5. AMANTES: A luxury restaurant Nikkei style. Enjoy a lunch at the sun-drenched terrace with unbeatable sea views
  6. THE FOODBAR; Visited by a lot of Dutch and Belgian people it offers really lovely food. A toque of Asian style, French kitchen and some Spanish classic dishes
  7. ZANZIBAR: Our favourite hang-out for lazy summer nights. Cocktails with international tapas and sea view. Need to say more?
  8. LA CASITA: Lovely place to enjoy a family night out. A menu with many children options, super friendly staff and on a stone’s throw from El Portet beach. The perfect spot when you stay in Ca la Bahía
  9. BAJUL: Traditional Indonesian food and rice tables. Also take away
  10. A’ CAS E’ RENAT. Of course we have to close off with an Italian restaurant. So if you like a tasteful pizza, fresh pasta and the typical Italian atmosphere, go there!

But there’s so much more!

We definitely don’t want to withhold these three from you:

  • EL REFUGIO. Eat and live like a local in this traditional restaurant
  • AUX 2 PAPILLONS. An interesting combination of French and Libanese food
  • BO I FET MENJARS. Don’t feel like cooking? Here you’ll find freshly homemade dishes for take away. Or order sushi at the outstanding ROLL AND GO in Pedramala
  • DIRTY BURGERS BAR. Burgers, burgers and burgers. A trendy interior, best burgers in town and also veggie options. Simple as that!
  • MARINA THAI. A typical Asian restaurant can’t be missed in this list. So here you are, freshly made Thai dishes. As long as they don’t have their licence to serve alcohol, you can bring your own

Mercat del Riu Rau Jesus Pobre

HOTSPOTS, LOCAL LIFE

In the beautiful village of Jesus Pobre there’s an unique farmers market every Sunday: Mercat del Riu Rau. The market is named after the antique Riu Rau building where the market is held. A Riu Rau is an arched building from the past where grapes were dried to transform to sultanas.

There are many stalls, all run by local people, selling their locally grown fruit and vegetables, mostly organically grown. Also a variety of stalls sells artisan homemade food products, like breads, cocas and empanadas, wine, craftbeer and honey. As the season changes, so does the food which is sold.

There are the stalls with craftwork and art: for example fantastic knitted scarves and shawls, beautiful jewellery, plants and handmade wicker baskets. The surrounding shops are open as well, with beautiful displaying ceramics and art.

Pratical information

The Mercat del Riu Rau in Jesus Pobre takes place in the central Riu Rau in the center of town. It starts at 09:00 and ends around 14:00. In summer the market is in the evening from 18:00 until 23:00. During the market there’s is a high quality live music. You can eat your locally bought food at the market’s terrace with one of the local wines or craft beers.

In summertime it’s hard to find a parking spot in the village, as parking places are limited. No worries! Just pass the village in the direction of La Xara. When leaving the village there is an immense parking place at the right hand side.

The Mercat del Riu Rau is a perfect occasion to combine with a visit to La Tasca restaurant in Jesus Pobre. This Italian restaurant is famous because of it’s homemado ravioli and excellent live music.

Rastro market Jalón/ Xaló

HOTSPOTS, LOCAL LIFE

Every Saturday a rastro market is held in Jalón (Xaló in the local dialect Valenciano) at the Costa Blanca. Rastro means a type of flea market. From 09:00 until 14:00 antique, brocante and bric-a-brac is sold along the riverside around the touristic office. Beside that you’ll find the common tourist souvenirs, food stands and professional salesmen.

This rastro in the Jalón Valley is one of the most famous and best visited in the region. That’s because the quality of the offered pieces is quite high for a flea market. Another reason is the presence of a farmer’s market (mercat de la tierra) with local craftwork, fresh food and local products. The farmer’s market can be found at the roundabout at the Masymas supermarket.

What more to see and do in Jalón

Around the rastro market Jalón there are some nice bars, bodegas and small shops to continue the experience. Opposite the rastro is Bodegas Xaló, the biggest one of the village. Beside wine, you’ll find typical local products like olive oil, almonds and sausages (embutidos).

In the direction of Masymas you’ll pass the famous bar Casa Aleluya, reknown for the charming owner, live music and the brilliant food. Next to it, is Casa Claudia is situated with typical Spanish tapas. Further along the road is Bodega Riko with local wine & food like Bodegas Xaló. A bit further is the honey shop L’Abella, where local honey and derivates are sold.

The rastro market and farmer’s market in Jalón are held every Saturday from 09:00 until 14:00. In summertime the farmer’s market is in the evening hours because of the temperatures.

Good to know! Ca la Vall is only a stone’s throw away from this must-see market. Walk along the riverside path to Jalón in twenty minutes, a two-minute drive by car or get your bike for a nice ride. Book your stay in Ca la Vall now!