Hidden treasures of the Costa Blanca

Playa de la Granadella

Situated between Jávea and Moraira, La Granadella is ­frequently named the best beach in Spain. The horseshoe-­shaped bay, with its coveted Blue Flag status, has tranquil, sapphire water and is bordered by a thick forest of pine trees. One problem with La Granadella is that it is so beautiful it tends to get very busy in high season.

Playa de la Granadella

Cala del Moraig

A bewitching cove near the town of Benitatxell, surrounded by dramatic cliffs that are more reminiscent of a Southeast Asian island than Spain. Extremely popular with both cave divers and snorkelers, Cala del Moraig is a great place to discover all sorts of under-water creatures.

Cala del Moraig

Les Rotes

Just south of the center of the charming village of Dénia lies Les Rotes, an area made up of five small bays set against the backdrop of the Montgó nature reserve. The first bay, Marineta Cassiana, is popular with families due to its sandy beach. Moving up the coast, you will find a string of rocky coves with clear turquoise water that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, with plenty of fish and plant life to see.

El Arenal

The main sandy beach in Jávea is huge and easy to access, making it the most popular destination in these parts for families with young children.

Playa Delarenal

Don’t miss BonAmb

While visiting the area, make sure you pay a visit to the fantastic BonAmb restaurant in Xàbia, home to Spain’s youngest Michelin-starred chef, Alberto Ferruz. BonAmb offers three tasting menus where each dish is more memorable than the one before. The name BonAmb is a contraction of Bon Ambiente, and it means that the restaurant should be a place of enjoyment and pleasure. And how could it fail to be just that, with Ferruz’s open, smiley, vivacious personality shining through in every one of his wonderfully ­colorful culinary creations?

BonAmb