The magic of the Costa Blanca Norte’s Christmas markets

The magic of the Costa Blanca Norte’s Christmas markets

December brings the official start of the Christmas season. The streets are festooned with Christmas lights, the shop windows brighter and more alluring than ever, the supermarkets well stocked with turrón, marzipan and other Christmas treats. And of course, the Christmas markets, filling  the streets and squares of Marina Alta’s villages with festive magic.

The blue and white of the villages of Costa Blanca Norte are enhanced during these festivities with the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Christmas. In this blog post we tell you about some of the Christmas markets that you can find in the villages around Cumbre del Sol where you can source some really original gifts.

 

Teulada Moraira Market

This traditional market is held in the Avenida Santa Catalina and Plaza de la Constitución in Teulada.

It is one of the Costa Blanca Norte’s classic markets. The area is full of Christmas figures as part of the market, along with fun photocalls, a children’s play area and stalls where you can buy everything you need for Christmas, including gifts of course. Not only that, but the market offers numerous and varied activities with jugglers, puppets and concerts, and you can find all the information you need about them here.

 

Jávea Christmas Charity Market and Fair

It is always important to remember those less fortunate than ourselves, and this is especially true at Christmas. The Xàbia Association of Belenistas (Christmas Cribs and Nativity Scenes) and some private individuals have got together to organise the 2nd Christmas Market in the historic town centre. The market will be selling decorations and Christmas products, and the Christmas Crib makers of the town will be selling their figurines for the crib and they will also be mounting a Nativity Scene. Proceeds from the products sold will be given to Cáritas in Xàbia.

 

navidad costa blanca

 

Calpe Fira de Nadal

After a 2 year break Calpe will once again be holding its Christmas Fair in the streets of the old town. This will be the 8th edition of this event and this year the main attraction will be the street entertainment and shows. There will be travelling shows, children’s workshops (tattoos, face painting, key rings, and blowing bubbles) conjuring tricks, and theatre. There will also be a wooden merry go round in the town square, traditional games and a moveable wooden hut featuring Father Christmas. And like all craft markets, there will be 35 stalls featuring businesses, hotel and catering establishments and several local associations selling all kinds of Christmas sweets and delicacies.

 

Benitachell Christmas Market

From 16 December you can visit the Mercat de Nadal de Benitatxell. This market has a wide range of stalls where you can find all kinds of Christmas products and sweets, jewellery, accessories, clothes, etc. There will also be a gymkhana, theatre, and activities for children.

 

Even if you only visit one of them, we hope that you have a really Happy Christmas at Cumbre del Sol. If you want to keep abreast of everything that’s going on in the Costa Blanca Norte, make sure you read our blog posts so that you don’t miss out!

Free bus travel to cala del Moraig

Free bus travel to cala del Moraig

Living in Cumbre del Sol means living in the middle of nature, between mountains and the sea. The sandy coves and bays of the Costa Blanca are one of its biggest attractions and as such, these treasures need to be conserved and protected. The cala del Moraig is one of nature’s true gems which can be enjoyed day in day out, especially now when summer is upon us.

One of the conservation measures put in place last year was to prohibit vehicle access to the beach. As a result, to make it easier to get there, Benitatxell Local Council has provided a free bus service from Cumbre del Sol to cala Moraig with buses leaving every 15 to 20 minutes. Say goodbye to reaching this natural paradise on foot!

If you want to visit cala del Moraig, all you need to do is wait for the bus to arrive at the car park close by the descent to the beach. Not only that, but the municipal transport service has organised the buses to take you into the town centre, running four times a day —at 9:30 h, 14:00 h, 16:00 h and 18:30 h. Bear in mind that if you want to have a swim from Monday to Friday instead of the weekend, the first bus leaves at 10 am.

This service makes it easier for you to reach the amazing cala del Moraig beach any day of the week during the months of July, August, and the first fortnight in September. And you can go into town as well if you need to!

As you are well aware, during the summer months, visitors flock to Benitatxell to enjoy this heavenly spot. And it is hardly surprising, seeing that it is one of the most beautiful little coves on the Costa Blanca! However, this year you won’t need to book beforehand when you visit. The controlled access will be organised from the car park from where the bus leaves. If the beach has reached full capacity, you will need to wait until the other bathers have left the beach.

Do you want to know everything that is going on at Cumbre del Sol? Remember to keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram profiles. And of course, keep an eye out for all the news posted on our blog. Don’t miss a thing! And now, time to take a dip in waters at the fabulous little beach of cala del Moraig.

Update 06/09/2021: The bus service ended on 5th September

Free bus travel to cala del Moraig

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 Costa Blanca Has 2 More Blue Flag Beaches Than Last Year!  Discover Which Are Closest to You!

The Costa Blanca Has 2 More Blue Flag Beaches Than Last Year! Discover Which Are Closest to You!

As a resident of Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol, you’re no stranger to Blue Flag beaches, such as Cala Moraig which has been awarded this title many times. We’re sure you’ve already fallen in love with its crystalline-waters and superb services and amenities. However, you might be curious to learn more about the other Blue Flag beaches that are just a stone’s throw away from your home in Cumbre del Sol.

The Costa Blanca is a privileged location for many reasons, but the fact that it is the coastline with the most Blue Flags in all of Spain exemplifies why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations. Spain has been the world leader of Blue Flag beaches since 1987, and this year, the Valencia Community is once again the autonomous community with the highest number of prized beaches. That being said, Alicante is the province with the highest number of all for a grand total of 86 Blue Flags, more than Valencia and Castellon combined.

If you’re unfamiliar with what makes a beach worthy of this title, the recognition is based on four benchmarks:

  • The quality of the sandbanks and waters.
  • Environmental conditions such as cleanliness, well-appointed sanitary facilities and properly maintained surroundings.
  • The presence of lifeguards, rescue and healthcare services, as well as accessibility.
  • Environmental education and information about the ecosystem, code of conduct and water quality.

Let’s travel just outside of Benitachell and discover all the Blue Flag beaches in Marina Alta. In Javea, close to Cumbre del Sol, you’ll find three blue flag beaches: La Grava, l’Arenal and Granadella. Just as close, there’s Teulada with three more beaches: El Portet, l’Ampolla and Platgetes. Not far from these, you’ll also find Cala Fustera in Benissa.

If you want to take a day trip down south, you can head over to Calpe or Altea, two coastal towns just thirty minutes away. Both have three blue flag beaches each; in Calpe, there’s la Fosa, Cantal Roi and Arenal Bol; meanwhile, in Altea, there are beaches like Cap Blanc, L’Espigó and La Roda. In L’Alfàs del Pi, a quaint Spanish town, there’s La Playa Racó de L’Albir. Of course, we can’t leave out Benidorm! The city boasts of three blue flag beaches: Playa de Levante, Playa de Poniente and Playa del Mal Pas.

Get your sun hat, sandals and towel and get ready to go for a swim! Living at Cumbre del Sol is synonymous with living in a paradise where every day is like a summer holiday. What better way to make the most of your day than to head over to one of these Blue Flag beaches? Fall in love with everything that makes living on the Costa Blanca idyllic.

Fall in love with the cultural and architectural beauty of the Riuraus route

Fall in love with the cultural and architectural beauty of the Riuraus route

There are countless hidden secrets on the Costa Blanca, more specifically in the municipality of Benitachell. These secrets are part of what makes life at Cumbre del Sol a unique experience. If you are a self-proclaimed lover of culture, history and architecture, then you’ll love discovering the Riuraus route (Ruta dels Riuraus).

The riuraus are 18th-century structures, built to protect grapes from the effects of humidity and rain. The buildings were made of stone, with roofs formed out of wooden rods and clay titles. These architectural gems became a symbol of economic prosperity during the 19th-century, as the Marina Alta region experienced an economic boom thanks to their raisin production.

The famous Riuraus route runs through the towns of Benitachell, Benissa, Gata, Jesús Pobre, La Xara, Llíber, Parcent, Ondara, Pedreguer, Teulada-Moraira, Xàbia, and Xaló. The itinerary is a cultural journey through the history and way of life of the ancestors who once inhabited the municipalities of the Marina Alta.

Are you up for discovering all the secrets this route has to offer? The first thing you should know is that the route doesn’t have a concrete starting point. You can begin by discovering the riuraus closest to your home, in Benitachell. Afterward, you can continue by visiting the rest of the municipalities that make up the route. No matter which path you decide to follow, the most important thing is that you enjoy every step of this journey into another era.

However, to get the most out of the route, we do recommend you visit the different municipalities’ tourist offices so they can give you all the necessary information and instructions. Furthermore, you can visit house-museums where you’ll find objects and settings characteristic of the era.

The brochures of the Riuraus route will also serve as a guide and help you make the most of the itinerary. For example, you can discover which have been best-preserved, the best views to contemplate them and where to enjoy the region’s delicious gastronomy.

Make the most of living at Cumbre del Sol and enjoy all the cultural opportunities you have nearby. Add the Riuraus route to your list of summer plans and discover all its secrets – it will be a memorable experience!