Introducing Costa Blanca
The long stripe of the Costa Blanca (White Coast) is one of Europe’s most heavily visited areas. If you’re after a secluded midsummer beach, stay away. But if you’re looking for a lively social scene, good beaches and a suntan…
It isn’t all concrete and package deals. Although the original fishing villages have long been engulfed by the sprawl of resorts, a few old town kernels, such as those of Xàbia (Jávea) and Altea, still survive.
In July and August it can be tough finding accommodation if you haven’t booked. Out of season, those places remaining open usually charge far less than in high summer.
Most buses linking Valencia and Alicante head down the motorway, making a stop in Benidorm. A few, however, call by other intervening towns. Renfe trains connect Valencia with Gandia, while the FGV narrow-gauge trains and trams ply the scenic route between Denia and Alicante, stopping at all pueblos en route.
Inland Trips from the Costa Blanca by Derek Workman describes in detail and with flair 20 one-day car excursions into the interior. Pack too his Small Hotels and Inns of Eastern Spain if you’d like to linger and spend the night away from the crowds.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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