The White Coast as this coast is sometimes known stretches from Gandia in the North to Torrevieja/ Orihuela Costa spanning some 200 kms in the community of Alicante.

The North is a more mountainous terrain with forests of pine stretching down to rocky coves and sandy bays from Denia with its sailing and fishing pursuits followed by Javea and its Arendal beach fringed by bars and restaurants. Continuing down the coast each resort has its own identity and characteristics, taking in Moraria, Calpe, Altea and its historical centre, Villiajoyosa with its brightly painted fisherman’s houses and Benidorm for the night owls.

Alicante with its castle, sweeping palm tree lined streets, marina and abundance of fresh fish has plenty to offer its visitors. Benefiting from an international airport and trains to Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona etc, the area is well connected.

We continue south towards the town of Torrevieja with its salt lakes, flamingos and birds of prey. It has invested in its marina. So, take a stroll along its esplanade and people watch.

The South is less mountainous than the north and perfect to cycle, walk or jog from one cove or bay to the next sandy beach. The area Orihuela Costa, taking its name from the historical town slightly inland has several blue flag beaches, Playa Flamenca, La Zenia, Cabo Roig and Mil Palmeras. The area has San Javier airport a short drive away in addition to Alicante.

If retail therapy is required, then La Zenia Boulevard with numerous outlets and regular entertainment this is your stop. For the active soul 4 excellent golf courses are close by, plus Cabo Roig marine with water sports facilities with numerous bars and restaurants dotted along the coast. If you wish to explore for a day Mar Menor or historical Cartagena, or Murcia is an option.

The Costa Blanca landscape is varied and offers something for everyone. It has one of the healthiest climates in Europe.

For time away from the beach – visit Orihuela

A short drive away from the coast you will discover the inland town of Orihuela rich in history and culture, and sitting within the Valencian community and forms part of the province of Alicante.

If we go back to 1304, the area was considered bordered by the two regions (kingdoms of Aragon and Castile. It was of historical importance to the church in the past and was part of the province of Murcia. However, if we fast forward to 1833, Orihuela takes its place in the province of Alicante. With its proximity to the Murcia region, probably the area is closer culturally with its links to language and food to Murcia than Alicante. The area is well served by 2 airports one in Alicante and the other Murcia (San Javier) both are accessible.

Orihuela has much to offer the visitor today with its range of historical churches, palaces and art treasures. Several fiestas are celebrated throughout the year with “The Moors and Christians” festival a key event in the calendar.

So, take a day away from the beaches of Orihuela Costa and explore the winding streets and plethora of restaurants, bars, shops, street kiosks and squares to savour and drink in the Spanish way of life.