Nearby
The old quarters of Xàbia exude character and charm, and culture is one of the main reasons for visiting this beguiling town. Meander the streets of Xàbia and be transported back in time to the Middle Ages. The historical centre is a labyrinth of cobbled streets with palaces and monuments to discover. Of particular interest are the walls built to defend against pirate attacks on the town.
Gata de Gorgos is a small market town accessed via a gorge that cuts through one of the sandstone mounts and famed for two things – its wickerwork industry and an unusually large number of bars and restaurants per capita. Gata de Gorgos is also renowned for its Moscatel grapes which are made into the famous wine.
Explore
The valleys of Jalon and Orba provide a wealth of traditional experiences, just a short drive inland. A collection of small mountain hamlets, village squares bustling with folks scrutinising home-grown produce perched precariously on wooden stalls, cobbled paths lined with ornate balconies, oblivious to the breath-taking views that they dominate and the heady aroma of oranges combined with a hint of jasmine that wafts along the valley floor.
Orchards, underground caves, natural springs, walking trails and tasty home cooking are all strong contenders for challenging the requisites of a beach worshipper. Local wine cellars invite tasting from the barrel, whilst honey and almond confectioneries tempt even those who deny having a sweet tooth.
Beaches
Moraira boasts two idyllic bays, Playa L’Ampolla and El Portet - once discovered, the impulse to pursue others may dwindle somewhat.
A series of rocky coves and craggy inlets extend southwards, from Playa L’Ampolla, linked by a twisting road that hugs the coastline and a string of lanes that dip down to the water's edge at regular intervals. Eager snorkellers, scuba divers or those just seeking a variation of vista in which to enjoy a picnic lunch, can explore the coves of Baladrar, Fustera, Advocat, Els Pinets L’Andragó and Cap Blanc, discovering a variety of ways to succumb to the allure of the Mediterranean, without having to negotiate the crowds.
For those seeking a larger beach with amenities and a more ‘upbeat vibe’, the gently shelving beaches of Calpe offer a child friendly option, complete with a wide choice of cafés for midday snacks or something more substantial.
Xàbia’s La Granadella beach may take a little more seeking out, but you will be generously rewarded with amazing photo moments in this natural cove, whilst Dénia's 20km stretch of coastline caters for those seeking a chance for windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving.
Local Markets
This stretch of the Valencian coastline boasts a vibrant local market somewhere every day of the week. By far one of the most popular is the ‘Rastro’ in Jalón on a Saturday morning, where locals from surrounding villages congregate along the river bank to sell local products such as honey, olive oil, sweet almond pastries and crispy ‘churros’ (a doughnut mixture) to dip in thick, rich chocolate. Leather handbags, beach dresses and lace tablecloths sway in the breeze, intermingled between stands laden with hand-crafted wooden figurines, colourful ceramic dishes and an endless array of shoes. The hum of traders chanting ‘today’s special offer’, a solitary guitar strumming in the distance and the chance to barter for a bargain whilst buying a week’s supply of fresh fruit and veg makes for a fun morning, mingling with the locals.
Other markets of note take place in: Dénia (Monday), Altea (Tuesday), Xàbia (Thursday) and Moraira (Friday). Market times are 09:30 – 14:00.
