Scaling New Heights Along The Costa Blanca

Scaling New Heights Along The Costa Blanca

Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol offers an unparalleled location nestled between the sea and the mountains, giving you the opportunity to enjoy nature year-round. Now that the temperatures have dropped a little and the weather is still good, it’s the perfect season for hiking. We’ve already mentioned some of the most famous routes on the coast, but this time, we’re ready to conquer the mountains. We remind you to always consider your level of experience, take necessary precautions and carry all the necessary equipment (hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, etc.) Are you ready? Here we go!

The Montgó Natural Park, shaped like an elephant with its trunk extended towards the sea, is a symbol of Denia’s surroundings. It offers 6 trekking routes, of varying lengths and intensity, and is the perfect place for you to conquer mountains alongside your family. Most of the trails allow you to reach the top and enjoy impressive views. We recommend the Cova de l’Aigua and Racó del Bou route as it is circular and of medium difficulty. It is 5.5 kilometers long and you’ll need about 3 ½ hours to return to your starting point. The route begins at the hermitage that was built in the 80s, next to the Pare Pere hut. This route allows you to see the cave where water was stored and takes you through the shady area of Montgó, declared a micro-reserve.

Another option is to go to Altea and leave your car at the Casas de Bèrnia, a small village in the town of Xaló. The Serra de Bèrnia circular route, also called El Forat de Bèrnia route, is a medium level hike and is known to be the most interesting and complete in the province of Alicante. This route is a little longer than the previous one, as it is 9 km long and takes 4-5 hours. It offers amazing landscapes, and multiple natural attractions, such as El Forat (a natural tunnel allowing you will cross the mountain range), as well as heritage sites such as El Fort de Bèrnia. Don’t forget to take a flashlight to be able to cross the tunnel!

If you’re at expert hiker, we can offer two challenges: The Barranc de l’Infern and the Puig Campana ascent. These two routes require a lot of training, so we recommend you to walk carefully and opt out if you don’t have the right level.

The Barranc de L’Infern, also referred to as the ‘catedral del senderismo,’ is one of the most unique and popular circular routes in the province of Alicante. It requires great physical strength as it has 6,800 stone steps that lead you to stunning landscapes and a great cultural heritage. The starting point is located in Fleix and from there, you’ll have to follow the PR-CV 147 trail marks (after the Fleix washhouse). The route is winding and takes you across the Barranc de l’Infern twice. Keep in mind that after heavy rains it is very likely that you won’t be able to cross the ravine, so we recommend you wait a few days.

We’re sure this mountain has caught your attention several times. The Puig Campana is the second highest peak in the province of Alicante, with an altitude of 1,408 meters, and one of the most demanding routes. You can climb to the top (15 km) or take the circular route (12 km). To start your climb, you’ll need to go towards the Font del Molí in Finestrat and follow the PR-CV 289 (Volta al Puig Campana) route in an anticlockwise direction as the path is more irregular and it is preferable to do it uphill. You can follow this trail until the end if you’re only interested in the circular route, or change course at the Coll del Pouet crossing to climb to the top. There is also a more strenuous path that passes by the south slope, that’s to say by the quarry, and is known as the “Vertical Kilometer”.

Finally, if you like to go trekking and camping in the mountains, you can climb a section of the Gran Ruta Costa Blanca Interior (GR-330) that passes near your home: Denia-Gata de Gorgos and Gata de Gorgos-Parcent. Hiking is a great activity as you can get exercise and connect with nature. Don’t forget your equipment, check the weather and remember that we must take care of the environment and leave the least no footprint behind. Respect the environment and conquer the heights of one of the most impressive mountains in the Valencian Community.

If you want to know more about Cumbre del Sol and its surroundings, don’t miss our blog articles and be sure to follow us on our social media accounts.

Must-See Beaches and Coves in Northern Alicante

Must-See Beaches and Coves in Northern Alicante

Javea

Playa del Arenal is an expansive sandy beach right off the bay of Javea. It’s Javea’s most frequented beach and the reason why couldn’t be more evident! With vibrant blue waters, it’s clear why this beach has been awarded blue flag status. Its gentle slope and fine sand make it perfect for sports by the water, such as football or volleyball. For those who prefer watersports, there’s plenty of businesses that rent equipment nearby. Additionally, it has breathtaking views of the nearby Montgo mountain, which makes a stunning backdrop to an already gorgeous day at the beach.

Cala de la Granadella also has cinematic natural surroundings and it’s one of Alicante’s crown jewels thanks to its crystal-clear waters and incredible views. It offers all kinds of services and amenities, such as lifeguards, hammocks, parasols, kayaking, and it’s a popular option for those who like underwater diving. There are also many restaurants by the seaside. Despite its popularity, it’s usually very peaceful and doesn’t draw large crowds.

Calpe

Playa la fossa, also known as Playa Levante, is Calpe’s most popular touristic destination. Nestled just under Peñón de Ifach, this spectacular blue flag beach is known for its wildlife and natural surroundings. Its calm and clear waters make it the perfect option for families with young children, as well as its long promenade that offers a variety of restaurants, bars and shops.

Cala el Raco is the smallest cove on this list which might mean it’s more crowded than most on a weekend. However, it is worth a visit as its unique marine landscape has made it a popular snorkelling destination. Grab your snorkel and swimsuit and head over!

Altea

Playa de la Roda spans over 1400 meters in length and is near the city centre, making it very accessible and ideally situated for a day at the beach. With a wide range of restaurants, bars and amenities nearby, all your needs will easily be met. Its waters are very calm although they have an impressive depth past the shoreline, ideal for anyone who wants to spend the day windsurfing, underwater diving or kayaking.

Cala la Solsida is a small cove with calm waters thanks to its idyllic location that protects it from northern winds. Its waters are barely 2 meters in depth at its deepest point. This, combined with its unique marine fauna and flora, makes it one of the most unique snorkelling spots in Alicante. Its seafloor is covered in starfish, cuttlefish and more!

Moraira

Playa de L’Ampolla is located just under the emblematic Castillo de Moraira (Moraira castle). It is known as the best beach in the surrounding area and its blue flag status is a testament to that. There are rocks near the castle which form paddle pools, perfect for exploring marine life with your children. Additionally, its fine golden sand is ideal for playing sports, building sandcastles or simply spending the day basking in the sun.

Cala el Portet has a uniquely seashell rounded shape. Its waters are known to be very clear and calm all year round, making it a popular snorkelling and underwater diving destination. You can also rent kayaks and explore the stunning cove that’s only 10 meters wide.

Benitachell

Cala del Moraig of course! We’re sure you’re familiar with this blue flag cove which is considered one of the most beautiful coves not just in Spain, but in the world! As a resident of Cumbre del Sol, you have easy access to its coveted waters. This rocky sand cove has everything you need to enjoy a day at the beach. It’s also near the Cova dels Arcs, an icon on the Valencian coast that everyone should visit.

Now that you know some of the best beaches and coves just minutes away from your home in Cumbre del Sol, we recommend you read more about the picturesque towns they’re found in so you can make the most of your travels! For more information about events, activities and must-see destinations, follow us on our social networks!

The Most Enchanting Places on the Costa Blanca

The Most Enchanting Places on the Costa Blanca

Now that it’s summer, we’re sure you’re itching to go out and make the most of it. Living at Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol has many advantages, but one of the best ones is its unmatched location. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Puig Llorença mountain, Cumbre del Sol is one of the Costa Blanca’s prized gems. It also has the added bonus of being moments away from many other treasured locations. Get ready to pack your bags for a day trip and find out where you should head to next!

Villajoyosa

‘La Vila’, as it’s called by its residents, is a quaint Spanish town that’s famous for its colourful houses and its crystalline beaches. Take in its one-of-a-kind beauty as you stroll down the beach or through its winding streets that are full of magic. The old town has endless historical landmarks for you to discover, from ancient Roman ruins to medieval walls.

Denia

This port city is home to the striking Denia Castle that sits above the marina. The castle is surrounded by large trees that make for an unforgettable skyline. Within its walls that date back to the 11th century, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum, full of Roman artefacts and rich with history. Enjoy the view from the marina or Denia’s many blue-water beaches. It’ll make an excellent backdrop to the delicious Mediterranean cuisine you’ll be sure to enjoy at any of the seafood restaurants that line the coast.

Javea

Between Denia and Javea you’ll find the Montgo Natural Park. This majestic mountain overlooks these two charming cities, so any route you take will be an unforgettable one. Once you’ve taken in the wealth of flora, you can head over to Cala Barraca. This blue-water beach is lined with white houses with charming blue doors and windows, the perfect backdrop for a day by the water.

Peñón de Ifach in Calpe, near Cumbre del Sol

Calpe

Calpe is another coastal town with a gorgeous skyline thanks to Peñón de Ifach, a rock formation that stands 332 meters tall. If you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with a natural park that’s home to numerous rare plants and animals. Also, you’ll be able to see as far out as Ibiza from the top of the rock!

Altea

Altea’s old town is renowned for being one of the most beautiful on the Costa Blanca. Its white houses, narrow streets adorned with flowers, and endless handcraft shops and restaurants are just part of what makes it pure magic. Start your journey at the Mirador Cronistas, one of the most photographed viewpoints in all of Spain.

These are just some of the stunning locations right near your home on the Costa Blanca. Make sure to keep an eye on our blog and follow our social media accounts for more ideas of places to discover!

Enjoy a memorable Christmas on the Spanish Costa Blanca

Enjoy a memorable Christmas on the Spanish Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca is a wonderful place due to its excellent weather and lovely little towns that are spread throughout the whole area. Benitatxell, being one of those towns, is where you’ll find Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol, home to our best apartment and luxury villa developments. Furthermore, during this season, the landscape transforms to make way for autumn postcards and offers a very special Christmas under the sun and next to the sea. Sometimes it’s hard to believe that it’s wintertime here, as the temperatures are so mild and the weather is spectacular, but little by little, the Christmas spirit is sweeping over the region. In fact, we’ve decorated different places at Cumbre del Sol and the residents have decorated their homes to welcome the holidays.

Besides Cumbre del Sol, all the towns and cities that are close by also organise numerous events to celebrate Christmas. This is the case for Benissa that inaugurated their nativity scene on the 1st of December. Music, films, workshops, and a Christmas market…Benissa has everything that you could need to spend a magical time with your family and friends, and just like in years past, the Three Kings will arrive to the city on January 5th to hand out gifts.

Benitatxell is no exception, as they have organised a Christmas market on the 15th of December with food stalls, clothes, arts and crafts, a gymkhana, and the famous “Burreta de Nadal” or Christmas donkey. In addition, children between the ages of 3 and 12 have until December 18th to enrol in Christmas school and do crafts, sports, traditional games and Christmas activities with other children on the 23, 24, 27, 30 and 31st of December and 2nd and 3rd January from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. We’ll give you a preview of the whole schedule for the month of December, as on the 24th, Santa Claus will visit the city with a parade starting at 5:00 pm. The youngest ones can watch a film in the social centre on Thursday, the 26th at 6:30 p.m., listen to Christmas carols on the 27th at the church or even watch a puppet show on the 28th at 12:00 pm. We can also tell you that the first week of January will be full of fun Christmas events: a visit from the Three Kings’ messenger (January 2nd), a children’s theatre, Christmas park with blow-ups, face painting and much more (January 4th). Don’t forget the traditional Three Wise Men parade and the distribution of gifts (January 5th at 6:30 pm).

To the south, you’ll find the town of Teulada-Moraira, also close to Cumbre del Sol. After the Teulada English Choir’s Christmas concert on December 6th, the city will be totally immersed in music as the AMCT invites you to attend its Christmas concert scheduled for December 20th in the Santa Catalina church in Teulada. In addition, the Teulada-Moraira Auditorium offers you an exception program during the holidays with a performance of Swan Lake by the Moscow Ballet and they UCAM Symphony Orchestra on December 21st, and the Christmas concert by Alicante’s Youth Orchestra (OJPA) on December 28th. On December 22nd, the city will have a typical Christmas market on Avenida Santa Catalina and the Town hall Plaza, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, in Teulada with local artisanal products. You can also continue until you reach Altea where you’ll find an ice-skating rink, rides, and games that await you in the Plaça del Nadal.

If you’d like to live a different and unique experience, then we recommend visiting the Baleária Port in Dénia. The city has everything up and ready for Christmas, in fact they turned on the lights and kicked off the holiday season on November 30th. Both adults and the younger ones can enjoy the ice-skating rink (until January 6th) and inflatable castles (until January 4th). In addition, the Jauja Port will host a concert by Valencia’s Higher Conservatory Orchestra, magician, Hugo Arcil, will surprise everyone with his tricks on the 23rd, and the children’s show “El Mundo de Drilo,” will take place on December 30th.

Lastly, you can take advantage of Christmas to visit Valencia or Alicante. Cumbre del Sol is conveniently located halfway between the two cities, both offering a multitude of activities throughout the month of December and early January: lights, a Christmas market, Santa Claus’ house, ice skating rinks, slides, a fair, and the Cavalcade of Magi (Three Kings Parade).

The best time of the year begins now and VAPF wants to make sure that you enjoy it to the fullest. Let yourself be swept away by the Christmas spirit and discover everything that’s been organised in the surrounding area to make these holidays exceptional. As for us, we invite you to unleash your creative side by decorating your home and we remind you that the best way to find out about the events we organise is by following us on our Facebook page.

Three cities to visit close to Cumbre del Sol (I): Denia, Calpe, and Altea

Three cities to visit close to Cumbre del Sol (I): Denia, Calpe, and Altea

We know that giving in to the charms of the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort is an easy task. It is situated in an exceptional location: in the heart of the Sierra de la Llorença, just 1.5km from the sea and close to wonderful beaches and coves such as Moraig and Tiestos.

As well as its location in a paradise spot in the province of Alicante, it is also close to cities which have much to offer visitors. Around an hour from the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort there are charming towns on the Mediterranean coast which enjoy the sunny climate 365 days a year. Today we’ll tell you all about what you can do in three of these cities: Denia, Calpe, and Altea.

Denia: a blue horizon and the best gastronomy

There is only one thing that shines brighter than the sun in Denia: the culinary creations. Since 2015, Denia has belonged to the Creative Cities of Gastronomy, a distinction UNESCO awards to those places which are dedicated to developing and exchanging innovative practices which promote the creative industries. In Spain, only Burgos and Denia have been awarded this recognition!

So, what creations can we sample in Denia? As we’re in the land of rice dishes, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the delicious arroz a banda. Denia’s fishing traditions and proximity to the sea make it the home of delicious seafood dishes: the famous red prawn, llandeta (a dish which mixes different types of fish with potato), suquet de peix (fish and shellfish cooked with suquet sauce), dried octopus, sea urchins… and the best thing is that there are around 300 restaurants in the city from which to choose your favourite.

Then, the marina hides even more surprises in this city. The first of these is the possibility to hire a boat to sail around the city and enjoy some magnificent views of the Macizo del Montgo Natural Park or the Cabo de San Antonio. Or, if you prefer, you can catch a ferry to reach special Mediterranean locations such as Formentera and Ibiza in just over two hours.

Calpe: against the backdrop of the Peñón de Ifach

Without doubt, one of the most well-known panoramic views in the Community of Valencia is in Calpe, with the Peñón de Ifach. Named a natural park over 30 years ago, reaching the peak can take around an hour, even on routes of moderate difficulty. Don’t forget to wear shoes which are comfortable and will help you to maintain your balance!

However, the adventure in Peñón de Ifach goes even further: there are around 43 routes, of varying difficulties, from which to choose the one you like best. In April, May, and June, climbing is not advisable due to nest building. It’s much better to enjoy this place in months such as September, when the temperatures are more stable.

There are infinite locations from which to enjoy the panoramic views of the Peñón de Ifach. However, if you would prefer to admire them while enjoying some sport, there is the Ifach Golf Club, one of the first golf courses in the Community of Valencia. Its location in between hills will provide you with some spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the imposing outline of the Peñón de Ifach. A luxury location to tee off in!

Calpe, like the other cities along the Mediterranean coastline, encompasses what it is to live close to the sea. A top fishing location, it is also a great choice for those who love regattas: the classic Calpe-Formentera-Calpe has been held here at the end of May/beginning of June for over three decades. This event, organised by the Calpe Royal Yacht Club, remains faithful to its family roots despite the recognition it has obtained after 30 years.

Altea: an old town to discover on foot

One of the pearls of the Costa Blanca is Altea. As the years have gone by, it has maintained its essence without losing even an ounce of it. We could write pages and pages about the beauty of its old town, which is a true icon in the Mediterranean. Our recommendation would be to visit in the evening, when its many charms are amplified: the cobbles, the white houses, and the dome on the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo take on a magical dimension.

Though the old town is the main reason which brings visitors to this Mediterranean location, Altea’s marinas also attract both experts and beginners in water sports and sailing. It doesn’t matter which you prefer: kayaking, rowing, canoeing, sailing, or snorkelling – there is room for all of them here! Altea’s crystal-clear waters are home to three marinas: Marina Greenwich, Altea Sailing Club, and Porto Senso Marina. So, how about spending a day out on the sea?

These are just three cities you will have within an hour from you at the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort. Keep an eye on our blog to find out about more locations close to our luxury houses! Or, if you prefer, you can contact us here and begin your new life by the sea! We hope to hear from you!