Alicante, the vibrant and colourful heart of the Valencian Community in south-eastern Spain, offers numerous sustainable and authentic experiences away from the usual tourist routes.
Alicante is fortunate to have a mild climate throughout the year, making it a great place to visit at any time of year. Undoubtedly known and famous for its beaches and coves, which flourish in summer and fill up with visitors from all over the world, this vibrant centre of the Costa Blanca also offers less touristy scenery and places that are worth visiting for a more conscious and peaceful holiday.
In this article, we will discover together some alternative ways to explore the Alicante region, focusing on the curiosity and beauty of lesser-known but equally special places.
1. Alicante and the picturesque village of Villajoyosa
A short distance from Alicante, while exploring the Valencian Community, you can visit a beautiful coastal town: Villajoyosa. The colourful houses that characterise the landscape are undoubtedly the symbol of this place, completing it and making it unique and charming.
Overlooking the sea, this beautiful village offers visitors the chance to enjoy a range of activities, from cycling tours along the coast to kayaking excursions. There are also a couple of museums worth visiting, namely the Vilamuseu Archaeological Museum, which houses artefacts dating back to Roman times, and the Valor Chocolate Museum.
The latter represents a place that embodies the soul of this area. Indeed, the chocolate industry has ancient roots here, making a delicious break here an absolute must.
2. Novelda and the Alicante Hinterland
The small town of Novelda boasts a rich cultural and environmental heritage that contributes to making it a fascinating place well worth visiting.
This town, famous above all for its wine (Novelda is part of the Alicante Wine Route) and marble trade, is a charming place that offers visitors a beautiful historic centre and several museums and places of interest. Examples include the Town Hall and the Sanctuary of Santa María Magdalena.
The latter is referred to by some as ‘Alicante’s little Sagrada Familia’ due to its striking architectural similarities. In fact, its creator was a great admirer of Antoni Gaudí, who inspired him in the construction of this structure.
3. Tabarca Island: Spanish Marine Reserve
Near the coast of Alicante, you can take a ferry or catamaran to visit the beautiful Island of Tabarca. It has a charming historic centre where the ancient walls and several churches of architectural interest still stand.
In 1986, this island was declared a nature reserve, becoming Spain’s first marine reserve. When you visit, you can admire crystal clear waters and a wealth of biodiversity, especially marine life.
You can enjoy the beauty of this small archipelago on foot, protecting the ecosystem and respecting the surrounding nature.
4. Elche and its Palm Oasis
Half an hour from Alicante, there is a beautiful historic centre: Elche. This town boasts numerous monuments in a variety of architectural styles and a spectacular oasis in the heart of the city with over 200,000 palm trees.
This palm grove was originally an agricultural system implemented by the Arabs in the 8th century, but today its function is more scenic and cultural. Also noteworthy is the Basilica of Elche, which blends various architectural styles and whose foundations stand on a former Muslim mosque.
5. Alicante and its mountains: the village of Guadalest
Venture further into the inland areas of Alicante, among the mountains, and you will discover a magical place: Guadalest. This village has a small but wonderful historic centre featuring numerous monuments and museums that describe its history and culture.
For trekking enthusiasts, this village offers the opportunity to follow various trails, admiring the wonderful, characteristic views of this area.
These are just a few ideas for a trip that is as mindful as possible, and that allows travellers to discover lesser-known places that are, however, full of stories and beauty that are an integral part of their soul.
To make your journey even more sustainable, you can choose from a curated selection of eco-friendly accommodations near Alicante: nature-immersed fincas, unique glamping tents, off-grid cottages and eco-conscious B&Bs that let you experience the Costa Blanca in an authentic and responsible way.
