Jan 23, 2023 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol, Other towns
During the summer there are plenty of plans and things to do in the area and it is normal for the loveliest spots to be full of people, and so it is harder to enjoy them 100%. Due to its enviable climate, the Costa Blanca Norte is one of those destinations that can be rediscovered and also enjoyed during the colder months. In this blog post we suggest some activities and places close by Cumbre del Sol that will make you love the low season in one of the most charming and delightful areas of the Spanish Levant.
The Javea look out trail
There are 15 cliff tops, 15 scenarios, 15 different ways of looking at the sea. From Cap de Sant Antoni to Castell de la Granadella, you can take a trail that will captivate all your senses. You can enjoy views of Montgó, ancient 16th century windmills, look out points, islets, not to mention the local flora and fauna. You will find the complete list so you can map out your itinerary by clicking on this link.
Discover the “other side” of Altea
With its famous dome, its historic town centre, the seafront promenade, the Yacht Club, the beaches… Altea offers everything you can imagine so why not look at this amazing place from another perspective? A great plan for one of those sunny Saturday or Sunday winter mornings would be sailing around the bay of Altea. Not only that, there are a number of sailing schools in the town where you can learn all about this wonderful world.
Trails in Serra Gelada
Although we’d need a whole article to give you an in depth view, in this post we focus on an enjoyable route that begins in el Albir, which is at the end of the “Camí Vell del far”. This trail is two and a half kilometres long and takes you past ochre mines and little beaches culminating in a look out point with incredible views.
Climbing the Peñón de Ifach
This outing is a classic at any time, although it is better enjoyed when the temperature is lower and there are fewer people around. Two and a half hours is the time it takes to be rewarded once you’ve climbed the 332 metres: the most comprehensive views of Calpe and its bays, and on a clear day you can even see Ibiza. But don’t forget to wear the appropriate footwear!
Checking out the Michelin Stars in la Marina Alta
La Marina Alta is also a culinary benchmark in the Spanish Levant. In November 2022 the 7 restaurants awarded the highest accolade for gastronomy in Spain managed to renew their 10 stars which were awarded to the following restaurants:
Audrey’s de Calp, 1 Michelin Star.
Beat de Calp, 1 Michelin Star.
Quique Dacosta de Dénia, 3 Michelin Stars.
Peix & Brases de Dénia, 1 Michelin Star
Casa Pepa de Ondara, 1 Michelin Star.
BonAmb Restaurante de Xàbia, 2 Michelin Stars.
Tula Restaurante de Xàbia, 1 Michelin Star.
Other plans in and around the Costa Blanca Norte
Discover the caves of Canelobre
An extremely attractive option, just a few kilometres away from Alicante, is a trip to the caves of Canelobre. A huge variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and columns created by the waters around Busot. What’s more, in the interior you’ll find one of the highest vaults in Spain and a stalagmite that is over 100,000 years old.
Guadalest: inland is lovely too
El Castell de Guadalest is a remote village, nestling in the mountains in the shelter of the Xortà, Aitana and Serella mountain ranges, that has retained the Mediterranean essence with its whitewashed houses and their stone paved floors. This is an unmissable destination if you want to discover inland Costa Blanca.
Now that you know about some of the possibilities just a few kilometres from Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol, there’s no reason to stay home this weekend. For more plans and activities with destinations close to home, stay in touch and look out for our future blog posts.
Jan 12, 2023 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol, Something special
La Marina Alta is so much more than a stroll by the seaside and warm temperatures, it is also the perfect place for enjoying delicious cuisine in the local restaurants, with menus that list the best rice dishes, seafood, and fish, not to mention other appealing specialities. As proof of this gastronomic wealth, 10 Michelin stars have been awarded to 7 Costa Blanca restaurants. Come with us on a culinary tour, where we tell you all about these restaurants, with their star dishes, and how to enjoy this great adventure for discerning palates, just a few minutes from your home in Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol.
Quique Dacosta Restaurant – 3 Stars
We have to start with the three starred Restaurant Quique Dacosta in Denia. Can a taste actually be beautiful? Beyond the aesthetics of the dish, the award winning chef has revolutionised kitchens with his gastronomic venture. That is, he endeavours to cook beauty, with the aim of promoting feelings and emotions in diners with every mouthful that they taste. As to the menu, the restaurant offers scant information, instead preferring to keep up the sense of intrigue until the end, in fact, they describe how the dishes are created based on the most iconic products and “other unknown” ones. Are you ready for the experience? To read more about the concept, and to make a booking , check out this link. However, given that the restaurant is in high demand, you will probably have to add your name to the waiting list.
Bon Amb – 2 Stars
Another place that is an essential visit is Bon Amb in Jávea. This restaurant, which has earned two Michelin stars, serves dishes based on a particular fishing practice namely, l’encesa, the ancient skill of fishing from the cliffs of the la Marina Alta. The menu follows the route of the encesers, and is divided into three different menus, each representing the path from the fields and market gardens to the Mediterranean sea: Cabàs, Canyís and Ham; all of which are accompanied by their aperitifs and desserts and with 8, 10 and 12 courses respectively. The restaurant is currently closed for holidays and will reopen on 9 February 2023.
Casa Pepa – 1 Michelin Star
In the meantime, you can book a table at Casa Pepa in Ondara, the Michelin starred restaurant that recently joined forces with the Bon Amb family, aiming to continue the legacy of Pepa Romans, who was able to recreate the essence of local gastronomic tradition in an innovative manner and bring it to the dining table. If you want to try some of the most iconic and delicious local dishes, you can book a table here.
Peix & Brases – 1 Star
For another unmissable experience, check out Peix & Brases in Denia. Awarded a Michelin star, this restaurant is clear regarding its aims, namely, without tradition there is no vanguard, which is why it looks to the future with its dishes, yet retains all that we have learned from the past. With its Essence and Tasting menus, you can enjoy a variety of dishes, typical of la Marina Alta cuisine, from a different yet absolutely delicious perspective. Not only that, but at Peix & Brases, you will find a completely different concept known as Mediterrasian, a more laid back part of the restaurant, as its name implies, which provides fusion dishes combining our culture with oriental cuisine. Mediterranean philosophy and Asiatic influence of the purest kind. For bookings, visit this link.
Tula – 1 Star
Continuing our recommendations, Tula in Jávea offers what they call real seasonal cuisine with Mediterranean ingredients, selected and prepared with the warmth and care of traditional home cooked food. Their menu is a celebration of the Mediterranean sea, and a treat for seafood lovers. To enjoy the experience of this Michelin starred restaurant, you can book here.
Audreys’s by Rafa Soler – 1 Star
Beat – 1 Star
Finally, Calpe also boasts a Michelin star, in fact it has 2, both of which are run by the AR hotel group. Let’s start with Audreys’s by Rafa Soler, which aims primarily to surprise the palate of its diners, while retaining the culinary memory that is the legacy of Valencian cuisine, yet with the most elegant style. You can book your table here, so don’t miss out on this experience. Another starred restaurant is Beat, which, with its techniques and preparation, displays sophistication that places local produce at centre stage. Its three menus,: Inspiration, Taste and Nature will delight the palate, book your table at reservas@ar-hoteles.com or call 900 103 798.
Now that you know all about the best restaurants close to Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol, there’s no excuse not to start the year with a proper festive meal. And remember, we are always here with our blog posts to let you know what’s going on in the Costa Blanca Norte.
Sep 14, 2022 | Activities/Services, Benitachell, Grupo VAPF, Other towns
September is a month that brings changes and new starts. During the summer months the Costa Blanca has been one of the top choices for tourism in Spain. However, there is no need to change this once September comes.
With summer’s end we usually think that it’s time to put aside all our plans and escapades, but there is no need. There are still plenty of beaches to visit and enjoy! In autumn or even in winter there are some amazing places to discover in the area. And with so much going for them! The excellent climate for most of the year is one of the main advantages and the reason why the Costa Blanca continues to be a top destination.
If you are thinking of getting out and about around this time, this blog post is for you. Discover some of the places close to Cumbre del Sol where you can spend a few days disconnecting and having some well deserved fun!
Denia
Getting rid of our daily stress is very important. Strolling the sea shore or wandering around the cobbled streets of the town, Denia would be a great choice! It is midway between Valencia and Alicante and it boasts several beaches where you can spend a few days of peace, winding down and relaxing with the family as well as enjoying the rich and varied cuisine. This Alicante municipal district is ideal for disconnecting from the noise and bustle, and for discovering some new pastimes. If you are more of a beach person, the town has a fine sandy beach to offer you that stretches for several kilometres and is close by the town. Check it out!
Jávea
The natural surroundings are what you notice most about Jávea. The beauty of the countryside is an open invitation to spend hours just gazing into the distance and delighting in the fantastic weather in this area. It’s the ideal place for an escape where you can indulge in your favourite sports on land, while surrounded by fabulous views of the Mediterranean. Having enjoyed the beautiful surroundings of this town, you can discover its lovely old centre where you can stroll around and lose yourself in the streets with their white painted houses.
Calpe
When we talk about a town full of history and nature we mean Calpe. A place where you can spend some of your time on sporting activities or discovering its amazing beaches. El Peñón de Ifach is one of the main tourist attractions that you must see if you go to Calpe. Discover some of the area’s native flora and treat yourself to some impressive views of the Mediterranean! It is one of the most visited places on the Costa Blanca.
Benitachell
The views in Benitachell are truly spectacular! And this place is ideal for visiting with all the family. In September this town becomes a haven of peace where you can enjoy nature at its purest, and also it is the ideal place to discover some remote hideaways in the sandy coves where you can simply chill, lost in thought. You won’t regret bypassing the summer and deciding to visit this area in September. Hiking and walking is something that can be enjoyed all year round. And if you’re a fan of sports and scuba diving make the most of September and plunge into the crystal clear waters in this town!
Moraira
This idyllic spot is full of beaches with fine sand and hidden coves with crystalline waters. In Moraira, you will find a castle on the Mediterranean sea shore and you can savour the freshest produce from the fishing port. It’s a holiday that you will love! In September you’ll be struck by the peacefulness and relaxed atmosphere of the town’s streets.
Although we are no longer in high season there are still some days of summer left and some places left to visit. With so many possibilities in Alicante province close by Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol, any destination will be the perfect excuse to come and wind down for a few days. Discover the most beautiful spots on the Costa Blanca from September onwards!
Aug 23, 2022 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol
The Costa Blanca boasts over 200 km of coastline with 170 beaches, many of them with an EU blue flag. Given these dimensions, the area is considered to be one of the best and most fun coastlines in Spain for divers.
The Costa Blanca, and particularly its northern end, is home to some of the most delightful sandy coves and beaches in the Spanish Levante. With water temperatures averaging 20ºC in summer and 14ºC in winter, snorkelling, diving or any other water sport is practically a requirement here. However, 170 beaches are a lot of beaches, and so, would it help if we told you about some of the best ones?
A classic: La Granadella
Considered to be one of the finest beaches in Spain, Granadella is a magical spot where the sea and the mountains merge to perfection. Thanks to the peaceful waters and the seabed of gleaming white sand, diving here is a unique experience and ideal for watching marine life.
If you want more, there is another possibility for diving in Jávea in Portixol, known as the most “instagrammable” beach on the Costa Blanca. What makes it so special? Probably the fact that it forms a bay surrounded by high cliffs.
Diving at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach?
Yes it is possible. We are talking about El Racó, a pebbly little cove with crystal clear waters brimming with sea creatures of every kind, with a perfectly signposted underwater route, and so it is ideal for diving and snorkelling fans.
Los Arcos Cave: emblem of the Costa Blanca
El Poble Nou de Benitachell has one of the best beaches for diving namely, Cala Moraig. This cove harbours some of nature’s wonders among its rocks. Not only that, what makes this place really special is the los Arcos Cave. One of nature’s most stunning spectacles, it has been produced by the sea eroding the rocks over the years to form a cave with natural stone pillars. It is very popular with snorkellers and it is relatively easy to reach. Other interesting routes for diving in Benitachell can be found in Cala Llebeig and Cala Testos, and for more information about these beaches check out this link.
For those seeking something completely different, there’s nothing better than spending a few days at the impressive DreamSea Mediterranean Camp, at Cala Moraig, which has attained almost cult status with Mediterranean lovers, for its amazing glamping experience. Nature + Sea + Activities, what more could you ask?
Close to Benitachell, in the municipal district of Benissa, you’ll find cala Pinets. This sheltered yet rather wild little cove has a pebbly shore. It is ideal for switching off while you snorkel or just decide to spend some time communing with the sea.
And there’s more! Altea, Dénia…
As we mentioned at the start of this blog, with over 200 kilometres of coastline there are many (but never too many) beaches. Not all of these are found close by villages and little known spots. In popular towns like Altea you can also find some interesting possibilities for having a good time such as Mascarat beach. Furthermore, in Dénia you will find the clearest most transparent waters of the Costa Blanca at El Fresquito beach, which may not be the best known, but this is precisely where its charm lies.
Now perhaps you have a better idea of how many beaches, coves and caves there are of every kind and for every taste. Make the most of them because there is still a month of summer left and you can enjoy every single one, and then tell us which is your favourite! Don’t miss out on our coming artícles about other activities and things to do on the Costa Blanca Norte.
Aug 10, 2022 | Activities/Services
The Costa Blanca is one of the most incredible places for enjoying the countryside. Circled by the Mediterranean sea and its rocky mountains, the area is full of places for you to disconnect and discover the local landscape.
Thanks to its wealth of flora and fauna, the Costa Blanca is an ideal tourist destination for couples, friends or families.
La Sierra de Mariola
The Sierra de Mariola Natural Park lies between the districts of la Hoya de Alcoy, El Condado de Cocentaina and Valle de Albaida. This area extends over 17 thousand hectares and is rich in plant life and vegetation. Aleppo pines cover most of this mountain range. The incredibly profuse plant life boasts around 1200 species in this area alone.
This beautiful spot is immensely valuable in environmental terms and it is perfect for hiking or family tourism. The “Green Route: in the shade of the ice houses” is one of the best known trails. There are others too, such as the “Blue Route. The water trail” the “Red route,: a date with history” and the “Yellow route : Solana lookout point”.
The Sierra de Mariola has an amazing wealth of birdlife, mammals and reptiles. The natural park is home to many species. These include Iberian lizards, rabbits and partridges.
The river Polop separates this natural area from the Natural Park of la Font Roja. Two amazing places inland on the Costa Blanca for you to wander and explore.
La Font Roja
The Font Roja Natural Park is also known as ‘El Carrascal’. This area, extending over 2,200 hectares was designated a nature reserve in 1987 and is set in the districts of Hoya de Alcoy and Ibi. It has some extremely diverse ecosystems thanks to different microclimates in the zone. It’s a true wonder of nature!
With its fantastic landscapes and ecology it is one of the most important parks in the Comunidad Valenciana. It is particularly striking for its deciduous woodland. The extensive forest has led to a wealth of rich and diverse wildlife. Robin, wild boar and sparrow hawk are just some of the species that inhabit this nature reserve.
The la Font Roja Natural Park has several hiking trails such as the ‘Yellow Route: El Menejador’, the “Red Route: Barranc de l’Infern’ and the ‘Blue Route: El Xicotet’.
The countryside around the towns of Dénia, Jávea and Calpe on the Costa Blanca are worth exploring at any time of year.
Serra Gelada
The Serra Gelada Natural Park is a protected area of the Costa Blanca. A nature reserve that encompasses both land and sea, with plenty of trails for hikers and walkers. The abundant vegetation of this mountain range harbours caves, fossilised dunes and paleontological remains, all interesting for tourists. The mountains roll down to the sea in the form of cliffs over 300 metres high. A walk here with amazing sea views is a real treat!
At Serra Gelada you will come across two micro reserves with some very interesting plant species. Sea birds provide the most interesting fauna on land. Breathe the pure oxygen in a place where humans have left no trace of activity. Switch off, do some sport and enjoy nature. Yes, it can be done!
El Peñón de Ifach
This is one of the city’s most iconic places. El Peñón de Ifach Natural Park is in Calpe. This impressive rock adjoining the land rises 322 metres above the sea. The surrounding natural park has a rich historic heritage and some unique plant life. One of the most frequently visited tourists spots on the Costa Blanca!
La Granadella Natural Park
La Granadella Natural Park lies south of Jávea, and extends over 750 hectares. It is one of the few totally unspoiled places on the Mediterranean coast. It is the perfect place for hikers and walkers. Discovering the native plants will be an easy task here. Aside from the spectacular view you can explore the wealth of plant life which is unique to this place and found nowhere else!
There are times when it is not easy to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, enjoy nature and breathe pure fresh air. However, it’s possible at Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol! Visit the Costa Blanca and explore its natural treasures. Unique and exclusive places, where you can simply appreciate the wonders of nature.
