The Best Wine Pairings for your Favourite Mediterranean Dishes

The Best Wine Pairings for your Favourite Mediterranean Dishes

After so much time at home, we’re sure most of you have started to experiment in the kitchen and some are even on your way to becoming amateur chefs. Previously, we  gave a few suggestions of dishes to try at home that are full of Mediterranean flavour. Now that you’re an expert on cooking the crowned jewels of Spanish cuisine, it’s time you learn which regional wines pair best with each dish. Alicante, aside from being known for its beautiful crystalline beaches and amazing weather, is also famous for having a renowned wine culture that bears fruit to absolute delicacies.

Perhaps the most famous regional wine is the Muscatel white wine, made entirely from the Alejandría muscatel grape. These grapes are characteristic to the Marina Alta region and give the wine its strong and elegant aroma. It’s only fitting that wines from this region pair beautifully with seafood and rice dishes. We recommend you try the award-winning Marina Alta from the Bocopa winery with a plate of arròs a banda or paella.

Merseguera wine is another, albeit lesser-known, white wine from Valencia and Alicante.  This wine is made from a very sustainable variety of grapes of the same name, and is usually only available in Spain. We recommend you try Rascaña, made by the Baldover 923 winery in Valencia. This wine has received high ratings from important wine critics thanks to its citrus notes that are so characteristic of the region it comes from. It pairs great with arroz negro or fideuá.

For those who prefer red wine, we suggest Monastrell wines. This wine is known around the world by its French name, Mourvedre, which derives from the Valencian town Morvedre. The grape variety used in its production dates back to fifteenth-century Valencia and its taste varies depending on the area it is grown. The Monastrell from Alicante is especially renown thanks to its unmatched freshness. We recommend Tarima, made by the Volver winery. This wine has won several awards and pairs well with barbecue, perfect with the warm weather that’s fast approaching.

The Monastrell grape is also used to make Fondillon, a special style of wine made only in Alicante and only from this grape. It also has a higher alcohol level in comparison to other wines. Another unique characteristic is that it’s sold solely after being aged for a minimum of 10 years, giving it its distinctive and bold flavour, making it the perfect choice to end any meal. Fondillon’s rich and oaky body has caramel and honey notes which pair beautifully with any dessert. Don’t miss out on trying this wine’s sophisticated and traditional taste.

These are only some of the gastronomic gems Alicante has to offer. There’s no better pairing to wine than sunshine, beaches and absolute relaxation – which is why your home at Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol is the best place to enjoy a glass of any one of these wines. Don’t forget to follow us on our social networks and keep up to date with our latest news on our blog.

Must-See Monuments in the Marina Alta

Must-See Monuments in the Marina Alta

Those privileged enough to live along the Costa Blanca can delight in some of the best beaches, natural landscapes, and mild year-long weather that can be found in the Mediterranean.  In addition, there is no shortage of historical and culture sites waiting to be explored. Our Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol is located in the comarca of Marina Alta, a short drive away from picturesque towns brimming with stunning monuments for you to discover. Don’t miss out on our suggestions below!

Benitachell: Rediscover Your Municipality

There’s history at the very heart of Benitachell in the form of the parish church of Santa María Magdalena (Saint Mary Magdalene). Built between the years of 1710 and 1774, the church appears commonplace from the outside, but has a magnificent interior, with walls of white and ornaments of gold. It has been remodelled and expanded throughout the years to include a striking dome with blue and white tiles and ornate pendentive.

The church gives way to the second famous monument of the area, El Portalet.  As the name suggests, El Portalet is a small portal to the church’s enclosed square. This walled square used to be the nucleus of the town when it was first built. Nowadays, you can visit the square’s viewpoint from which you can spot the Montgó mountain all the way to the Puig Llorença, as well as Cabo San Antonio and even parts of Javea! There’s no better reminder of all the treasures you have so close to your home!

Javea: Fascinating, Beautiful and Full of Architectural Value

Don’t settle on admiring Javea from a distance and take the time to visit its multitude of cultural monuments! Start in the old town, where you will find famous historic buildings like the Ca Lambert. Built in 1857, it’s now an art centre where the town hall organises cultural activities such as exhibitions and workshops. The centre also has two 16th century houses, which feature late Gothic architecture.

Meanwhile, the Mvsev Soler Blasco (The Palace-Estate House of Antoni Banyuls) is one of Javea’s most important cultural monuments. It was once home to Antonio Banyul, King Phillip III of Spain’s butler. The estate was built in the early 17th century and has a unique sandstone exterior. The inside of the estate was remodelled in the late 19th century, therefore the economic prosperity of the times is richly reflected throughout. You can still see the original hand-painted ceramic floor tiles, as well as admire the top floor which is a loggia. The space is now an Archaeology and Ethnographic Museum, featuring artwork by painter Segarra Llamas. Moreover, on the top floor you’ll find priceless artefacts from the 7th to 19th century.

Make the most of your time in Javea and meaner around the old town through walled streets of the old town, architectural monuments in and of themselves. Don’t miss a visit to the Town Hall, the Church of Saint Bartholomew (Iglesia de San Bartolomé) and the neogothic Mercado Municipal de Abastos (Old Market Hall).

Moraira: Rich in History and Culture, from the City Centre to the Coast

We end our historic tour of Marina Alta in Moraira, which offers many religious and public monuments. The most famous religious monument is the Church and Fortress of Santa Catalina Mártir, which was initially built in the early 16th century to protect the townspeople against pirate attacks. As historical treasure, you’ll be able to spot architectural elements from the 18th century onwards, with everything from Neoclassic designs to a reinterpretation of medieval design in the bell tower which was erected in 1895. You can also tour the gorgeous chapels in Moraira. The Chapel of the Divina Pastora’s renaissance façade and baroque décor, as well as the Chapel of Sant Vincent Ferrer’s Neoclassic architecture and colourful cupola are especially recommended.

On the one hand, you have the formerly walled-in historical city centre with its 16th and 17th century details. You can also visit the Sala de Jurats i Justicies. Built in 1620, the building has served as a house, town hall, trading post and more. You can also visit the beach where you’ll find more historic fortresses built to guard against pirate attacks, such as the Castle of Moraira and the Vigia del Cap d’Or Tower.

We hope we’ve inspired you to visit all the wonders you have near your home! Follow us on social media to stay up to date with everything Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol and its surroundings have to offer.

Family fun close by Cumbre del Sol

Family fun close by Cumbre del Sol

The Costa Blanca is both a prime location as well as a lively area for those who decide to take up residency here. Although it’s known for its warm climate and stunning landscapes, it also stands out for its numerous activities and events that are held in various towns of the region. Both residents and tourists alike can enjoy a summer filled with entertainment and unforgettable family moments.

If you live at Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort, continue reading to find out about all the activities that are happening this summer in Benissa, Benitatxell, Teulada-Moraira and Calpe.

All of these towns are well-situated, allowing you easy access to go swimming, discover nature, hike, go horseback riding or plan a day of cycling with the family. This isn’t all though, because at VAPF, we’ve organised various activities that will take place at Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort including yoga, paddle tournaments, and even theme parties.

If it’s been a while since you’ve enjoyed a family movie night, don’t miss the outdoor cinema sessions: The Secret Life of Pets, Johnny English Strikes Again, Captain America: Civil War are just some of the films that you can see for free. Benissa will be having its Street Cinema on Tuesdays and Thursdays, just click here to check the movie listings and times. Not interested in the movies that are listed? Not to worry, because in Calpe, there will also be an outdoor cinema two times a week! Check the listings and get ready for an enjoyable night with your family!

If you prefer traditional cinema, you can head over to Benitatxell y Teulada-Moraira. There will be showings in Benitaxell on Wednesday, Teulada on Fridays and Moraira on Tuesdays. Make a note of the days and consult the different locations and times to see a film with your family!

Summer is a perfect season to discover the history of the towns that surround Cumbre del Sol, and also to discover the break-taking landscapes and natural areas that we have close by. At Molí del Morelló in Calpe, you can travel through time while Alicia Luján reveals the secrets of the Baños de la Reina, some Roman ruins in the area. These guided tours take place every Tuesday at 9:30 am. Afterwards, you can continue on and make a stop in Benissa to learn more about the history of the town. Free tours begin at 8:30 pm and are available in Spanish (every Tuesday), English (from the 8th through the 22nd of August) and French (on the 1st, 15th, and the 29th of August).

In Teulada, you are invited to discover the town’s Gothic fortified past, which has also been declared a heritage asset, or Bien de Interés Cultural in Spanish. Join us at the Town Hall Square at 7:30 pm to enjoy a route in French, on Wednesdays, or in English, on Thursdays, during the month of August. But that’s not all, as Benitatxell also offers other interesting options. On Fridays at 6:30 pm, you can go on a guided tour to discover the town’s history and heritage, while on Thursdays at 6:00 pm, you can enjoy a tour of the cliffs with their excellent sea views. All of these are suitable for the youngest members of the family, so put on your comfortable shoes and get ready for some family fun!

Are you interested in a more theatrical and interactive event? Then you’ll love to know that Benissa is holding two performances on the 3rd and the 20th of August at 7:00 pm. If those dates don’t work for you, you can head to Teulada to listen to a Stories from a Preacher on Fridays, the 2nd, 16th, and 30th of August, at 8:00 pm.

As the youngest members of the family are bursting with energy, you might be interested in trying the escape room organised in Benitatxell  on Thursday, August 1st at 9:00 am. This free activity is suitable for children between the ages of 9 and 14.

If you and your children are passionate about music, don’t miss the 7th Annual International Youth Orchestra Festival at the Teulada-Moraira Auditorium from the 1st of August through the 8th. We advise that you get there early as there are a limited number of seats. If you prefer open air concerts, Teulada-Moraira will also hold the 9th Voramar Street Jazz Festival.

Lastly, we can’t conclude without mentioning the biggest event of the year; the second leg of the Tour of Spain (Vuelta a España) that starts at Benidorm and concludes in Calpe. Furthermore, the cyclists will pass through Benissa, Teulada, Benitatxell and even Cumbre del Sol. This is an event that can’t be missed!

Now that you’re up to date on all the events, it’s time to enjoy! And don’t forget to follow us on our social networks and check our blog on a regular basis so that you’ll be the first to know about events being organised close to Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort.

Two new Michelin stars awarded to restaurants of the Marina Alta

Two new Michelin stars awarded to restaurants of the Marina Alta

As we already know, Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol is located on a privileged place regarding its climate, sea proximity and other natural features that also are related to the availability of natural products for the fine gastronomy.

On 23 November the local cuisine quality was once again recognized: two restaurants in the Marina Alta were awarded with a Michelin Guide star. The restaurants “Audrey’s by Rafa Soler” in Calpe and “El Rodat de Xàbia” in Jávea, both located very close to Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol.

Chefs Nazario Cano from “El Rodat de Xàbia” and Rafa Soler from “Audrey’s by Rafa” put the Marina Alta area within cutting-edge haute cuisine circuit, and increase the number of Michelin stars to the province of Alicante.

We highly recommend to do not miss the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dish in these restaurants!

Bon appetite!

Join the Gran Fondo Cycling Tour 2016!

Join the Gran Fondo Cycling Tour 2016!

 

Gran Fondo Cycling Tour

Gran Fondo Cycling Tour

Join the Gran Fondo Cycling Tour 2016 to be held on 13 November: a cycling day around the Marina Alta zone starting and finishing in Calpe!

This circuit –approved by the Cycling Federation of Valencia- will be motor traffic controlled so all participants will enjoy a sports day with maximum safety and tranquility. (more…)