Costa Blanca holidays around Javea

COSTA BLANCA HOLIDAYS in Spain has been a popular destination for tourists from other parts of Europe, especially from the UK. Most tourists head for the big resorts such as Benidorm but a growing number are discovering that there are many other resorts on the Costa Blanca which are perfect for a holiday. Such a town is Javea. Unlike Benidorm with its high-rise hotels and condominiums, the city consists of more traditional buildings, even with its holiday homes; there are only a few buildings over four stories high.

Javea is built around a large bay between the capes of San Antonio and Cap de la Nao. The majority of holiday activities in Javea are centred on the Arenal beach, which is also where you will find most of the apartments. This bay is surrounded by bars, cafes, restaurants and shops to keep you entertained throughout your holiday.

The beach is equipped with sun beds, umbrellas and volleyball nets. Many people in this part of the Costa Blanca visit during the evening just to browse all the stops that offer jewellery, clothing and ornaments, many of which are handmade. You can get a personal portrait from artists who paint right on the beach; their styles vary from traditional to caricature. A portrait is a very personal memento and a particular way to remember your Javea holiday.

Bars, restaurants and shops open and close at different times so there is always something open in Arenal. Restaurants range from fast food, three-course meals, Spanish paella and tapas to fish and chips, but some of the three-course gourmet restaurants offer great value for tourists. A full three-course meal can cost less than £40 pounds per person.
Even if you can spend a lovely holiday in Arenal, the rest of the Javea area is well worth taking a look at. At the opposite end of the Arenal bay is Javea's port area, connected by a road along the beach with all the beach bars within walking distance. Many of the bars play music and are a great way to relax and enjoy the Spanish sun, away from the crowds.

The port of Javea is still a working fishing port with a small town around it with the larger shops and supermarkets to be found in Arenal. The rocky seafront is lined with intimate hotels, bars and restaurants where you can sit and watch the world go by with a drink and tapas. Every summer, the harbour is home to Javea International Festival. Tents at the festival display the different nationalities and cultures of Javea. Often the focal point of the festival is the stage where a number of artists of different nationalities perform.
A view from the harbour is the old town of Javea, known locally as "Pueblo". This is where you will find a taste of real Spain. Although it is possible to drive across the old town, many streets are one way and it would be impossible to get two cars side by side. The streets are narrow and have old traditional Spanish houses on both sides. In the centre is the old clock which often is featured in various festivals throughout the year. These festivals are always worth a visit to experience the Spanish sense of humour. Javea is the ideal place for a COSTA BLANCA HOLIDAYS for everyone all within a single season.