Travel Eye on Villajoyosa (Costa Blanca, Spain)

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Overview:

Villajoyosa, Costa Blanca, Spain, is the historical and administrative capital of the Marina Baja. Villajoyosa's economy depends both on shallow water and deep sea fishing. The town's relationship with the sea has been a determining factor in its history and culture and the overseas trade has produced Villajoyosa's other typical industry; chocolate.

Vilajoyosa has preserved many delightful features such as its afternoon fish auction and its colourful facades, whose original purpose was to ensure that sailors could see their houses from afar.

Often referred to as 'The sparkling Jewel' of the Costa Blanca, Villajoyosa is located just South of Benidorm, a fifteen minute drive down the N-332 along the coast (ca.10 km). The name means Jewelled Town, and Villajoyosa retains an authentic Spanish charm with vibrantly coloured houses (to guide the fishermen home), a busy fishing harbour with an afternoon fish market selling the freshest of the daily catch and a quaint town centre with a delightful little market place, artisan stalls and restaurants.

Suitable for those seeking a quiet, more authentic Spanish experience. Few concessions to British tourists, although the lively resort of Benidorm is within easy reach. Not much in the way of evening or children's entertainment. Large marina may attract "yachties". The accommodation consists of only a handful of local pensions in the resort itself. 2 full-size hotels, both in Montiboli, 2½ mls SW.

Locality:

Vilajoyosa is situated in SE Spain, on the Costa Blanca, directly on the Mediterranean Sea (6 mls SW of Benidorm, 71 mls S of Valencia, 20 mls NE of Alicante and 26 mls NE of its El Altet airport). It is bounded by dry, barren hills and divided by the seasonal River Amadorio, Villajoyosa is set on a broad, generally flat seaside site that rises (sometimes steeply) to its original, similarly flat location.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

The area has a fine, wide expanse of golden sand curves for ¾ ml, backed by the resort and bounded by the fishing port and marina at one end and a breakwater at the other.

Shopping consists of mainly ordinary shops, there is very little for tourists. There is a weekly Thursday market. Many shops selling the wonderful locally made chocolate.

The daytime offers the local Chocolate Museum (Museo del Chocolate) shows the local chocolate-making tradition dating back to 1881. Exploring the old town and its 16th-century fortified church with baroque-style chapel is a favourite for those looking for culture and history. Fishing boats bringing in their catches in the afternoon and auctions at the fishmarket. Beach based activities consist of sailing, windsurfing, diving and sea-kayaking.

Nightlife is mainy local bars with entertainment. Local nightclub on the road to Benidorm hosts shows. For a more extensive night out there is a full range of entertainment in Benidorm.

Mostly local restaurants, although there are some with international menus, largely along the sea front. Seafood and rice dishes are local specialities.