The Beaches
The closest and most frequented beaches of Xàbia are that of L’Arenal and La Granadella, however to the north the natural stretch of Dénia’s beaches, covering a total of 20km of shoreline, cater for the majority of water activities, areas with good surf for riding the waves, others with calm waters ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving whilst, of course, several sandy bays for dipping one’s toe in the water and doing absolutely nothing. At the other end of the spectrum, to the south of Xàbia are a series of lesser known coves, some of which can only be accessed via hillside trails or by boat. Cala del Moraig is one of the most charming and emblematic coves, where geological formations of an underground river have formed the stunning aquatic caves of Los Arcos, following thousands of years of erosion as the river flowed its way out to sea. Cala de los Tiestos (nudist beach) and Cala del Llebeig are next in the chain of ‘must see beauty spots’, whilst just around the headland, the picturesque inlet of El Portet is the proverbial cherry on the cake.
The Miradors
‘La Ruta de los Miradores’ is a string of 15 vantage points (miradors) dotted along this section of coast, providing strategic points from which to admire Xàbia’s beautiful bays and landscape. Starting at Els Molins, where a cluster of 14th century windmills, previously used for grinding wheat and cereals, stand in the foreground of the Sierra Bernia Mountains, which taper down to form the bay of Xàbia, the route will take you on an intriguing expedition, discovering captivating rock formations due to sea erosion, hidden caves, small fortresses and the small island of El Descubridor, providing photo opportunities around virtually every corner.
Dénia
The neighbouring town of Dénia sits on the northern side of the Montgó National Park and can be reached by taking a scenic route over the foothills of the mountain (Los Planes). Famed for its medieval castle and the international port it overlooks from its elevated position, there is so much more to the flamboyant town of Dénia, that it’s difficult to establish exactly where the centre is. At the foot of the castle are the ancient, colourful fishermen’s houses, linked together by a maze of narrow streets forming the ‘Casco Antiguo’ (old quarters) which, in turn, leads to ‘La Lonja’ (the fish market). Calle Marques de Campo and the Baix la Mar host a vibrant selection of craft shops and small boutiques, intermingled amongst ice-cream parlours, tree lined avenues and small bars serving ice cold drinks; these are the areas that discerning shoppers head for. Or you can get brunch in the recently developed Yachting Marina, a sharp contrast from the working port, where regular sailings across to the Balearic Islands are an attraction. Combined with the various options offered from 20km of natural beach coastline, Dénia is sure to feature in more than one day of your holiday itinerary.
Local Markets
There is a vibrant local market somewhere every day of the week along this stretch of the Valencian coastline. Probably the most well-known and popular is the ‘Rastro’ in the Jalón Valley every Saturday morning, where folk gather to browse the stalls along the river bank to buy local products such as honey, olive oil, sweet almond pastries and crispy ‘churros’ (a doughnut mixture) to dip in thick, rich chocolate. Other goods on sale include leather handbags, shoes and beach dresses, and traditional handicrafts such as lace tablecloths, ceramic dishes and wooden figurines. It is also the opportunity to stock up on fresh fruit and veg, of course, and the bustling atmosphere makes for a great holiday experience.
Other markets of note take place in: Dénia (Monday), Altea (Tuesday), Xàbia (Thursday) and Moraira (Friday). Market times are 09:30 – 14:00.
