Ah, Alicante…
Located in the southwest of Spain, it is an unmissable destination for summer vacations for those seeking a mix of history, crystal-clear beaches with white sand, good food, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Santa Bárbara Castle
For history lovers, in the city center, you will find the Santa Bárbara Castle, located on Mount Benacantil with an altitude of 166 meters, offering a 360-degree view of the Mediterranean Sea and the entire city. Its name originates from its conquest by the Arabs on December 4, 1248, the day of Saint Barbara. Archaeological remains from the Bronze Age, Iberian, and Roman periods have been found there. With free admission, during the summer season from June to September, it is open every day from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. There are two ways to reach the castle: the first is via the external stairs, which can be an indescribable journey for adventurers; however, don’t forget to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a hat, as the walk is long and steep. For those seeking convenience and comfort, there is an elevator for 2.70 euros per person. You can hire tour guides for a better understanding of the history and participate in activities such as wine tasting, craft beer, and Alicante products. Some days also feature dramatized visits and other events, concerts, etc. It is always worth checking the program available for the time you are there and reserving at least 2 hours to enjoy this attraction. For more information, visit the official website of the GetYourGuide where you can reserve a ticket for the elevator as well as guides and events.
For food lovers, a range of restaurants spread throughout the city will surprise you. Catering to all tastes and budgets, what caught my attention the most is that most of them offer a 3 or 4-course menu for lunch and dinner, including an appetizer, one or two main courses, dessert, and a drink which can be a small beer or a glass of wine. All with delicious service and fair prices. Don’t miss trying the authentic Valencian paella, accompanied by a good jug of sangria.
An excellent option for restaurants with a view is one of Alicante’s postcards, the promenade. In addition to many options to choose from, it is a good place to enjoy some drinks while taking in the beautiful scenery. It’s also a great option for those planning to continue the night in the lively bars and clubs or for the more relaxed, who can simply walk along feeling the sea breeze. Some nights, local producers’ craft fairs are also held.
San Juan Beach
If you seek high temperatures, Alicante’s summer can reach up to 34 degrees Celsius. The good news is that being a coastal region, there will be plenty of options to cool off in the beautiful Mediterranean waters. San Juan Beach, the main one in Alicante, although it has an indescribable view, was not our favorite for spending the day. However, we were charmed by the beaches of Benidorm (Levante and Poniente). A neighboring city of Alicante, in the Costa Blanca region, it was a small fishing village until 1960, today considered the Miami of Europe, with skyscrapers, palm-lined promenades, many bars, lively nights, and a very sought-after vacation destination. Its access is very easy, averaging 1 hour by public transport (bus from 3 to 13 euros) or (train from 2 to 4 euros) or less than 1 hour by car. But don’t worry, the journey has breathtaking scenery, and it will be so amazing that you won’t notice the time passing. A day trip is well worth it, but if you can spare more days in this incredible city, there will be numerous leisure options, including water and amusement parks for those with family.
Another faster option is Campello Beach, located between San Juan and Villajoyosa, a province of Alicante itself, about 30 minutes by car or public transport (train from 1 to 3 euros), or a bus that may take longer (1 to 5 euros). A quieter beach, with a large stretch of sand and a city that surprises with historical and archaeological remains from the prehistoric, Chalcolithic, and Bronze Age. It will also surprise you.
Tour to Guadalest and Algar Waterfalls
To conclude, we cannot fail to recommend a Day Tour to Guadalest and Algar Waterfalls. With departures almost daily in the high summer from Alicante or Benidorm, the tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, with prices starting from 55 euros per person. Starting at 10:00 AM, at the designated meeting point, the trip is made in a comfortable bus, with air conditioning and a tour guide. The first stop is the village of Guadalest, where the San José Castle is located (ticket included in the price), declared a historical-artistic monument, with a panoramic view and surrounded by mountains. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Guadalest Valley with its turquoise blue waters that will remain in your memory forever. One of the most surprising natural beauties I have ever seen. As it is a cultural heritage site, access is prohibited for preservation, but from the top of the castle, you can take great photos for souvenirs.
Then the tour continues to the Algar Waterfalls (with entrance included). At the beginning of the route, there are some restaurants, including some with pools that can be used by customers. The path to the waterfalls can be challenging for people with limitations or difficulties, as being a natural area, the stones and rocks can be a bit slippery and dangerous. Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and good shoes. The waterfalls have several levels where you can swim, dive, jump, or just relax, refresh, and renew in the waters on a hot day. We bought the Day Tour through GetYouGuide and highly recommend it:
