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BenidormBenidorm is a leisure and holiday town located on the southern Spain, 41 km. (25 miles) from Alicante on the Costa Blanca coast. The two main beaches of Benidorm; Levante and Poniente offer quality services, limpid water and fine sands difficult to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean. Benidorm boasts the most comprehensive and best equipped network of hotel and holiday accommodation in the Costa Blanca coasts.
The Old Quarter of Benidorm situated aside the promontory that separates the two Benidorm beaches. The Cerro Canfali headland that is veined by narrow lanes and alleys, converges in the light-filled Balcón del Mediterráneo belvedere, whitewashed and decorated with blue tiles, an ornamental motif repeated along the balustrade that graces stretches of the seafront of Benidorm. This small Old Quarter corresponds to the original fishing village and is presided over by the blue-tiled domed roof of the 18th century San Jaime Parish Church. In the area around the traditional city centre of Benidorm are the main shopping streets where holidaymakers may find and buy fashion items, handicrafts and souvenirs. Occupying a large area in the middle of Benidorm is the L’Aigüera Park that is designed along Neoclassical lines by the architect Ricardo Bofill. Also there is ample opportunity for a quiet stroll along the 5 km. beach promenade with beachgoers and watersports-lovers enjoying themselves at the water’s edge. Similarly, the wide avenues of Benidorm, flanked on either side by tall modern hotel buildings, provide yet further possibilities for a leisurely stroll. In addition; the Benidorm Isle, that is located out in the centre of the Benodorm bay, may be visited by boats leaving from the Benidorm harbour. According to locals, the islet of Benidorm represents the gigantic block of rock that is missing from the summit of nearby Mount Puig Campana. As for Benidorm cultural sights & landmarks; the Benidorm Old Town, Balcon del Mediterraneo (The Castle Viewpoint), San Jaime Church (Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana), Maritime Cultural Center, Poniente Beach Promenade, Benidorm Town Hall and L'Aiguera Park is must see cultural sights in Benidorm.
As for side trips and excursions from Benidorm; the interior regions that include the springs and waterfalls of El Algar, the medieval village of Castell de Guadalest, Confrides, Penáguila, Tárbena and the mountain ranges of Aitana and Bernia is worth a visit. In addition; excursions along the coast and visit other attractive towns like Altea, Calpe, Villajoyosa, Denia, Santa Pola, Torrevieja and Alicante is also a great attraction to take in your Benidorm holidays. Benidorm Island (Benidorm Isle) is a natural beauty and protected are located In the middle of bay of Benidormin the middle of its two points, stands the island of Benidorm. It is also the emblem of the city of Benidorm. Benidorm Island may be visited by little ferry boats or “golondrinas” [swallows] departing from the Benidorm harbour. According to locals, the islet of Benidorm represents the gigantic block of rock that is missing from the summit of nearby Mount Puig Campana. Also taking the the Lemon Express operating from Benidorm along the coastline of Costa Blanca to Gata de Gorgos may be a great attraction for the holidaymakers. It is highly recommended. A great way to explore the Costa Blanca coasts. |
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Benidorm Old Town
The Benidorm Old Town is situated aside the promontory that separates the two Benidorm beaches. The Cerro Canfali headland that is veined by narrow lanes and alleys, converges in the light-filled Balcón del Mediterráneo belvedere, whitewashed and decorated with blue tiles, an ornamental motif repeated along the balustrade that graces stretches of the seafront of Benidorm. This small Old Quarter corresponds to the original fishing village and is presided over by the blue-tiled domed roof of the 18th century San Jaime Parish Church. In the area around the traditional city centre of Benidorm are the main shopping streets where holidaymakers may find and buy fashion items, handicrafts and souvenirs.
From the late 19th century, Benidorm has only kept its layout, but it is worth wandering through its narrow streets. The “Paseo de la Carretera” delimits the Old Town. A good way to discover the Old Benidorm, would be starting the walk at the beginning of Levante Beach, from “Plaza del Torrejó” (Tower Square), next to the Tourist Info Office, and walk up through “Carrer dels Gats” (Cats street), a narrow street with steps and designs on the floor, made out of cobbles, crowned by small archways holding pots with colourful blooms. On top of this alley we come to the 18th century Neoclassical Church of “San Jaime”. At the left, the “Plaza de San Jaime” has a viewpoint over the Levante beach. An archway leads you to “Plaza Castelar”, and “Plaza del Castell”, where the Castle used to be, and where nowadays you will find the Castle Viewpoint, one of the most typical sights of the Mediterranean. Some cannons recall the events that took place during the war of independence against Napoleon´s army. In 1812, the French Army started the proceedings to get the title of “City of the Emperor” for Benidorm, but the British fleet bombed the Tower of Piera (“Castle”), and took the French away. Following the balustrade, you will find, “La Señoría” square, where Benidorm pay tribute to seamen died in the sea. Finally, next to the stairs that lead to the “Paseo de Colón”, you will find the “Condestable Zaragoza” street, a local hero in the war of Cuba. Many popular shops in Benidorm are located in the Avenida Martinez Alejos of the Benidrom Old Town. The shops along the Passaig de la Carretera (Paseo de la Carretera) are worth a visit and visitors may find good leather goods around the Plaza Mayor. Shopping areas in the Benidorm Old Town Gambo street and the Passaig de la Carretera (Paseo de la Carretera) are the main and most popular shopping area of Benidorm Old Town region. Also the streets of lmendros, Tomás Ortuño, Ruzafa and Martínez Alejos that are opening out to this area are popular shopping places. Benidorm Island - Isla de Benidorm
Benidorm Island (Isla de Benidorm) is a natural beauty and protected are located In the middle of bay of Benidorm in the middle of its two points, stands the island of Benidorm. It is also the emblem of the city of Benidorm.
According to the myth; Roldán, nephew of Charlemagne, and the ravine he slashed with his sword “Durandarte” to give rise to Puig Campana. He gouged out a lump, which came down n the sea: the island. It is said that the Carthaginian Aníbal Barca was born on it (said to be on an island between Alicante and the Pitiusas). Reality is much simpler and places it in the mountain range of the park. Benidorm Island may be visited by little ferry boats or “golondrinas” [swallows] departing from the Benidorm harbour. According to locals, the islet of Benidorm represents the gigantic block of rock that is missing from the summit of nearby Mount Puig Campana. At the rudimentary embarkation point trips may be taken on underwater viewing boats to observe the beauty of the immediate seabed and their wealth of aquatic life. |
Balcon del Mediterraneo (The Castle Viewpoint)
The Cerro Canfali headland that is veined by narrow lanes and alleys, converges in the light-filled Balcón del Mediterráneo belvedere, whitewashed and decorated with blue tiles, an ornamental motif repeated along the balustrade that graces stretches of the seafront of Benidorm.
The Balcon del Mediterraneo is situated on top of the rock separating the two beaches of Benidorm was the fortress built to defend the people from the algerian pirates raids during the centuries XIV, XV and XVI. Afterwards the castle was abandoned and today visitors may only see the remains of the walls on the rocks of the viewpoint which is also known as "The Balcony of the Mediterranean". Tossal de la Cala (Iberic Remains), Benidorm
El Tossal de La Cala is an Iberian settlement and one of the nicest cultural sights of Benidorm. It is located at the far end of Poniente beach in Benidorm.
The surrounding hill at the end of Benidorm bay was settled in the late Iberian period between 3rd to 1st Century B.C. Visitors may reach the restored area by going to the end of Poniente beach and following the signs from the Cala junction. Visitors may also find a little hermitage devoted to 'La Virgen del Mar' with wonderful views over the beaches, town and inland mountains. Cavall Peak & Morales Tower, Benidorm
Other remains from bygone times in Benidorm that have been declared as Cultural Assets are the 16th century watchtowers of "Punta del Cavall" (or Seguro) and "Morales" (or Escaletes).
These watchtowers were used by sentries who scanned the horizon to give early warning of the frequent pirate raids. Visitors may find the first one in the Sierra Helada mountains and the second one on the roadside of N-332 road, next to "La Cala" region. San Jaime Church (Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana), Benidorm
San Jaime Church (Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana) a blue-tiled domed roof of the 18th century Parish church. It is dedicated to the patron saint of Benidorm and is set at the very top of the Old Town on a hill called Canfali.
Built between 1740 and 1780, neoclassical style, the church is situated near the Viewpoint Canfali above the old town. In November they celebrate the major holidays of Benidorm in honor of St. James and Our Lady of Suffrage, one of the most important acts of these parties is the staging of the discovery of the Virgin produced in 1740. The recent restoration has renovated the building envelope and the frescoes of the vault. Visitors may seea statue of the Virgen del Sufragio inside the church, the well-loved patron saint of Benidorm. The Virgin has her own small chapel containing the little wood sculpture which, as the story goes, was found on a boat adrift on the high seas. |
Benidorm
Facts
Inhabitants 70280 Level above sea 15 meters Nearest airport Alicante Distance to airport 59 km Distance to beach 0 meters Max. temperature 35 C Min. temperature 10 C In the centre of the La Marina Baixa region, is the popular Spanish resort of Benidorm, one of the main tourist destinations along the Costa Blanca. Its excellent beaches, wide variety of accommodation, restaurants and many recreational activities means it’s a hit with tourists from all over Spain and Northern Europe. Benidorm offers endless possibilities: from taking a walk along the promenade, swimming in the crystal clear waters, water sports, a boat excursion to the island of Tabarca, or a wander through Benidorm’s historic quarter, perched on a promontory, the old town is in great contrast to the wide avenues of the main tourist town. Then there are the local cultural festivals, beautiful cuisine and great shopping; indeed it’s one of the Costa Blanca’s biggest tourist centres. Complete with its fine-sand beaches, crystal waters, privileged climate and great infrastructure have all gone to give Benidorm have granted this region —also equipped with a great infrastructure of high-quality services— its well-deserved fame. Benidorm is what you want it to be: full of fun, with a fantastic nightlife, but is also affords peace and tranquillity with its charming gardens and secluded coves. Truly a place with something for everyone, it’s no wonder it's so popular. Golf There are numerous championship courses in and around Benidorm offering a good challenge to the serious and casual golfer alike. Beaches Without doubt, the beaches are one of Benidorm’s biggest attractions. A five-kilometre stretch of golden sand coastline, intermingled with secluded coves where one can enjoy a refreshing swim, as well as engage in water sports, like scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, and more. Located to the north of the harbour, Levante beach is one of the most beautiful in the city. As a result of its urban location, it has easy access to many services, as well as the two kilometres of golden, fine sands. These emblematic sands are bordered by a busy promenade, filled with terraces and restaurants, which are very lively at night. To the south of the region, you find Poniente beach, where three kilometres of beautiful scenery unfolds. As with the Levante beach, Poniente has a long promenade and is accessible and convenient, with many facilities at hand. Between these two famous Benidorm beaches, is the Mal Pas cove; a tranquil cove of fine sands, close to the historic quarter and the harbour. In addition, Ti Ximo and La Almadrava emerge at the northern end of Benidorm, where the coast becomes rough and inaccessible. Removed from the urban centre, these hidden natural coves allow the visitor to escape from the bustle of the city and enjoy scuba-diving around the magnificent, rocky seabed. History Benidorm’s historic centre is located on a promontory, between its two main beaches – Levante and Poniente. This is the birthplace of the city, a primitive fishing town, dominated by the church of San Jaime. Erected in the 18th century, its bluish domes rise among an intricate network of narrow streets and alleyways, filled with picturesque little corners. The peaks of the Canfali hills lead to the Balcony of the Mediterranean, a splendid viewpoint that presents a gorgeous panoramic view of the sea. Modern Benidorm On either side of the historic quarter lay wide avenues and commercial streets that make up the rather more modern Benidorm. The city, devoted to the tourist industry, offers a myriad of services including hotels, restaurants, large commercial areas, discos and terraces. Leisure & recreation Benidorm’s recreational possibilities are endless. From taking a walk on the promenade or visiting the nearby park of L’Aigüera, to an exciting day in the Mediterranean Theme Park Terra Mítica. The city also has a number of sporting centres, including a sailing school, and several scuba-diving schools. Excursions Boat excursions to the little island of Benidorm – located in middle of the inlet – depart from the harbour. Legend has it that the island is a piece of rock from nearby Mount Campana that brave Roland severed with his sword during the expeditions of Charlemagne. The diverse seabed makes it a scuba-diving paradise. Cuisine Seafood and rice dishes are the base of the local gastronomy. Paella is one of the emblematic dishes, as are shellfish, grilled or boiled and fish, fried, stewed, or in soup. Garlic and olive oil are the main ingredients of ali-oli sauce, which accompanies many dishes and for dessert lovers, try the almond cake, turrón or home-made ice cream. Wines, with Designation of Origin - Alicante (the prestigious seal of quality and origin given in Spain to select wines and products) should definitely be sampled. Misteleta (a sweet wine); and horchata (a drink made from tiger nuts), are both typical of the region. Fiesta Benidorm is a happy and festive town; the local holidays honour the Virgin of Sufragio and Saint James the Apostle. The celebrations begin on the second Sunday of November and offer a varied programme, including floats, theatre performances, and fireworks. A few days later, the Fiesta de la Carxofa – a very traditional affair – takes place in the historic quarter. Other celebrations worth mentioning are the Bonfires of San Juan and the Muslims and Christians festivities, both in June. Surrounding areas The outskirts of Benidorm are of great natural beauty. To the north, the terrain becomes rough, with sierras and cliffs all the way to the sea. In this setting lay the towns of L’Alfàs del Pi, and Altea. In addition, next to the Peñón de Ifach Nature Reserve is the town of Calpe, a harmonious place that has managed to combine the conservation of its monumental heritage with its increasing tourism market. To the south of Benidorm we find the town of Villajoyosa, the capital of Marina Baja. Crossing the Sierra Aitana, the northern interior provides an interesting journey through Cocentaina, an important town in medieval history, and Alcoy, a place made famous for its Muslim and Christian festivals. For this reason it was declared a place of ‘International Touristic Interest’. Finally, in the Alicante Mountains we recommend a visit to the Carracal de la Font Roja Nature Reserve. Climate Benidorm benefits from a temperate climate all year round. Cooled by sea breezes from excessive heat in the summer, and remaining mild throughout the winter. |
Benidorm
Benidorm is Europe's largest holiday resort attracting 5 million visitors each year, a very lively resort with countless number of restaurants, bars and shops, plus not forgetting its impressive beach which stretches for miles along the coast.
It's a common myth that Benidorm is full of British pubs attracting thousands of rowdy Brits, but infact it attracts visitors from all over Europe and is an extremely family orientated resort with something for everyone. Benidorm is a fabulous holiday destination for children and adults alike with a selection of theme parks that are ideal for children of all ages such as the Aqualand and Terra Mitica; one of Europe's most exciting theme parks and one of Benidorm's main tourist attractions. Hotels in Benidorm can range from the economically priced to the luxurious, depending on budgets there will be a hotel to suit all. There are hotels on the outskirts of the town for visitors who are merely looking for a quiet and non-stressful holiday, with the thriving downtown nightlife being available, but not so close as to disturb. Restaurants around the city offer a wide variety of choice, ranging from English, French, Chinese and German cuisine. Many bars will offer home style food to English tourists looking for familiar food. For those seeking a more local dish, the Old Town will offer the finest of the local cuisines, as well as fantastic Spanish wines. When it comes to nightlife, it's hard to beat Benidorm, with hundreds of bars available, from British and Irish bars to Spanish style cafeteria bars, whatever your choice, it can certainly be found here. |
