Costa Blanca Holidays in Javea
The Costa Blanca in Spain has long been a popular holiday destination for tourists from other parts of Europe, and in particular the UK. Most holiday makers head for the major resorts such as Benidorm, but an increasing number are discovering that there are many holiday resorts on the Costa Blanca which are perfect for a holiday.
One such holiday resort is Javea. The area that makes up Javea is similar to the size of Benidorm, but instead of high-rise hotels and apartment blocks, the town is made up of traditional buildings, holiday villas and although there are apartments, there are only a couple of buildings over four storeys in height.
Javea is built round a large bay between the headlands of San Antoni and Cap de la Nao. Most of the holiday activity in Javea is centred around the Arenal beach, which is also where you will find most of the holiday villas. This “bay within a bay” is surrounded by bars, cafes, restaurants and shops to keep you entertained throughout your holiday.
The beach itself is equipped with sunbeds, parasols, and volleyball nets. As the sun goes down and the sunbathers go back to their hotels and villas, the promenade fills up with craft stalls. Many people from all over this part of the Costa Blanca visit Javea in the evening just to browse round the stalls which offer jewellery, clothing, and ornaments most of which are hand-made. There are also portrait artists that will paint your portrait right there at the beach, in styles ranging from traditional to caricature. A portrait is a very personal and special way to remember your Costa Blanca holiday in Javea.
The bars, restaurants and shops open and close at different times, so there is always something open on the Arenal. Restaurants range from fast food to three course meals, and from Spanish Paella and Tapas to Fish and Chips, but even some of the three course restaurants offer excellent value for holidaymakers. A full three course meal can cost anything from £5.50 to £40 per person.
Even though you can spend a very enjoyable holiday on the Arenal, the rest of Javea is well worth taking a look at. At the opposite end of Javea’s bay is the Port area. The port and the Arenal are linked by a road running alongside the beach with beach bars every few yards. These are essentially kiosks with tables and chairs arranged around them. Many of them have music playing 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 harbour with a small town around it with larger shops and supermarkets than you would find at the 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 (Spanish snacks).
Every summer the port plays host to the Javea International Festival. The festival has marquees representing the various nationalities and cultures in Javea. Often the centre point of the festival is the stage with a variety of performers of different nationalities.
Overlooking the port is the old town of Javea, known locally as “The Pueblo”. This is where you will find a taste of the real Spain. Although you can drive through the old town many of the roads are one way, as it would be impossible to get two vehicles side-by-side. The streets are narrow with old traditional Spanish townhouses on either side. The centre of the old town often comes alive with various Fiestas (celebrations) throughout the year, which are always worth visiting to experience the Spanish sense of fun.
Javea is the perfect place for a holiday with something for everyone all within a one resort.
