Do you have a few days off and want to enjoy a Mediterranean climate, delicious food and crystal-clear beaches? Then Alicante is your perfect destination — and at Manuel Hernández we will tell you exactly why.
We are going to run through activities and plans that simply cannot be left off your travel itinerary. You decide after reading, because Alicante is considered the most visited destination in the Valencian Community. Shall we begin?
Alicante has vast open spaces where you can connect with nature and take part in outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, running or simply strolling and having a picnic with family or friends.
One of the most popular routes is the "Vía Verde" — old railway tracks turned into ideal paths for sport or for the kids to explore to their heart's content.
The most popular section runs from Agost to El Maigmó. It covers 22 magnificent flat kilometres, full of tunnels, bridges and impressive viaducts. There are also 3 rest areas with picnic tables where you can stop for lunch and enjoy the Mediterranean countryside.
Another ideal spot to escape the city is La Marjal de Alicante nature park, located in the Playa San Juan area. It is a perfect place to run, walk the dog or simply lie on the grass with a good book.
It features two large ponds with waterfalls, tortoises, ducks, an enormous green hill, dirt paths and wide grass areas — without doubt a spectacular park well worth visiting.
Now we must talk about Alicante's patron festival: Las Hogueras de San Juan. If you are planning to visit Alicante in June, we recommend going from the 20th to the 24th.
During these days you can admire the monumental sculptures ("hogueras") full of social commentary and artistry, enjoy the offering to the Virgen del Remedio, witness the vibrant mascletà firecrackers — four continuous days of celebration where the streets of Alicante fill with colour, music and joy, culminating in the burning of the sculptures.
Alicante knows how to have fun, and the province has excellent theme parks and water parks perfect for friends or for the little ones — guaranteed laughs!
Some of them include:
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Aqualandia
A fantastic water park to cool off and have a great time. It has areas for young children and other sections not for the faint-hearted, including what was once the longest water slide in Europe.
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Terra Mítica
A theme park in Benidorm open from April to November. Perfect for adrenaline seekers, with major rides, shows and themed worlds.
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Dinopark
A park in Algar designed for children to learn about the spectacular age of the dinosaurs.
Along the Mediterranean coastline of Alicante province you will find intimate coves and spectacular golden sand beaches with crystal-clear water and unforgettable views. They are a major tourist attraction, and we work hard to keep them clean and well maintained — earning them the prestigious Blue Flag quality award.
Although it is very hard to make a selection, here are some of the best.
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La Granadella
Located in Jávea. A well-known beach full of contrasts and closely connected with nature. A 220-metre cove of crystal-clear water surrounded by cliffs, it has won the award for best beach in Spain twice — spectacular!
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Playa de San Juan
If you are looking for a beach within the capital, head to San Juan. Characterised by its generous size, excellent sports facilities and plenty of beach bars to escape the intense heat.
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Playa de la Fossa
Found in Calpe. A 1-kilometre fine-sand beach with views of the Peñón de Ifach that you will never forget.
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Playa del Bol Nou in Villajoyosa
If you are looking for an exclusive beach that will leave you breathless, you have to come here. Turquoise water with coarse sand and flat stones — don't forget your water shoes!
Finally, and by no means least, no visit to Alicante is complete without a trip to the only island in the Valencian Community. It is a small island you can walk around in just 20 minutes, home to only 57 permanent residents — perhaps that is what makes it so endearing.
Here you can enjoy exclusive coves of transparent water, perfect for diving or snorkelling amid incredible marine biodiversity. You can also taste delicious rice dishes or visit the island's old lighthouse.
