JALÓN
full of vineyards, cherry orchards, orange, almond and lemon groves, irrigated hills and fantastic mountain scenery. A visit to the local bodega or wine vault for tasting and purchase of the local ‘mistela’ is an absolute must. Jalón itself is famous for its table wine and, along with the other villages in the valley, has developed a strong artisan tradition. Plenty of opportunity for shopping for honey, cured meats and arts and crafts. On Saturday in Jalón, one of the most interesting flea markets in the area takes place. The rastro’s focus is on antiques but stalls sell everything from jewellery to Nepalese trousers. Situated by the river bed, the location is particularly scenic and one could do a lot worse than to take a break at the Aleluya bar opposite. On demand, the owner will skillfully pour a carafe of wine from his forehead, catching it in his mouth!
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The cobbled streets of the old quarter of the various villages are charming, picturesque and reflect their rural situation and medieval past. Museums and Moorish domes abound. The Jalón Valley has its own special attraction for cyclists, walkers and nature lovers drawn by the peace and tranquility of this part of rural Spain. There are splendid trails in the spectacular Barranco del Inferno gorge and beauty spots are plentiful. There are also several golf courses nearby in the north Costa Blanca.
ALTEA N
estling by the estuary of the river Algar, Altea is one of the most charming towns on the Costa Blanca. Just 11 kilometres north of the bright lights of Benidorm, it is
a tranquil world apart. Sightseers may roam the old quarter of whitewashed houses and cobbled medieval streets ascending to a square 68 metres above sea level. There you will find one of the region's most distinctive landmarks, the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. It is famous for its unique blue and white ceramic cupolas and completes the marvellously picturesque image, as does a magnificent view of jumbled rooftops, mountain ranges and the Mediterranean.
The square has many atmospheric bars where one can have a drink and recover from the climb. The ambience is bohemian. Altea is traditionally a refuge for artists, musicians and writers who gravitate towards the town’s relative peace and serenity. Galleries and workshops have evolved alongside tiny shops with good quality local crafts, paintings and gifts. The town was awarded the title of ‘cultural capital of the Valencian region’ and boasts a stunning concert hall and art centre - Palau Altea Centre d'Arts - which has an impressive programme. Great restaurants at the top of the town and down on the seafront offer local seafood and rice dishes while British pubs, French restaurants and Italian pizzerias all contribute to the international air that pervades the town. The promenade is the location of the highly popular Tuesday market. One of the biggest of its kind on the Costa Blanca, people flock to buy pottery, clothes, cheap watches, sunglasses and Moroccan rugs. And for those just there to enjoy the seaside there is plenty of opportunity to indulge in water sports from a variety of pebble and shingle beaches.
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he Jalón Valley, also known by the Spanish as the Vall de Pop, is made up of the villages of Murla, Benigembla, Parcent, Alcalalí, Jalón and Lliber. Awaiting you is a beautiful valley
MORAIRA
around Moraira castle, which functioned as a watchtower, 200 metres above sea level, to guard against marauding Berber pirates. The link with Teulada means the visitor can choose between an historic urban and beautiful coastal environment. Originally a sleepy fishing village, the Moraira fishermen still go out before dawn returning later with their catch, which is sold by auction at the traditional fish market - one of the most important on the Costa Blanca. Meanwhile, eight kilometres of coast boasting three blue flags indicating cleanliness, safety and a wealth of amenities, can be enjoyed by families and sun-seekers. A short walk from Moraira along the coast road past the cove of Portichol brings you to Portet. Quietly charming, it is like an old Cornish fishing village. From here one can also pay a visit to the Moorish tower, Cap d’Or. At the feet of Moraira castle is the most popular, cosmopolitan and extensive sandy beach in the area, l’Ampolla. Other beaches and coves offer the possibility of subaqua sports, as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For those who prefer dry land, there are plenty of scenic walks to local beauty spots.
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Culture vultures can circle Teulada’s historic centre, declared of national cultural interest. There is a structured walking route taking in the 16th century parish church, the renaissance chapel of the Divine Shepherd, the 18th century baroque chapel of San Vicente Ferrer and the 17th century law courts.
oraira is the seaside offshoot of Teulada, six kilometres away. The resort grew up
OUT OF TOWN
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