Costa Blanca Travel Guide

Situated approximately 5 km south of Benidorm and 32 km north of Alicante, the fishing town of Villajoyosa is certainly worth a visit. Many town and cities on the Costa Blanca are referred to as a ‘jewel’, however, Villajoyosa literally means 'Jewelled town’. The town runs along its 3.5km fine sandy beach and ends at the fishing harbour. Of the many beaches, the Centro Beach and El Paradis might be deemed to be the best. There are other beaches such as Xarco with its watchtower and Torres beach with a roman tower. There is a small cove used for diving and naturism, the Raco Conill and the Bol Nou and La Caleta beaches with their transparent waters are also well worth a visit

The best of the days fish catch is auctioned off to the highest bidder from the auction rooms at the large harbour - a true experience to watch. A with so many other towns along the coast, Villajoyosa has depended on both shallow and deep sea fishing for its economy. The town also boasts an impressive yachting marina.

The wonderful old town of Villajoyosa with its winding cobbled streets, colourful facades and many 19th century buildings all protected by a walled perimeter, makes for a relaxing break from modern shopping centres.

The town is the historical capital of the Marina Baixa area and even has narrow gauge railway that connects the town of Alicante and Denia. The heart of the city has been declared a historic monument and beckons you in to absorb its beauty. Of the many historic building, the Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a gothic church with a stunning Boroque altar piece is a must to visit. The vibrant colours of the facades in ochres, reds, yellows and indigo blues repeats itself throughout the town, its purpose was to ensure that fishermen could see their homes from afar. The Gaily-coloured houses that have become symbolic of the town receive a grant from the local town hall to maintain their appearance and condition.

The festival of the 'Moors and the Christians' is an annual spectacle in honour of the town's patron saint Santa Marta. The event encapsulates virtually the whole population of the town and is a colourful dance, music, costume, and food celebration, with mock battles and fireworks. Legend has it that over 200 years ago Santa Marta averted a pirate attack by provoking a flood.

With fishing being the main industry in Villajoyosa it not surprising that fish and seafood dishes are common at the many restaurants and bars across the town. However, the town's restaurants also have an impressive selection of paella, rice and vegetable dishes.

The town is world famous for its Spanish chocolate delicacies and is home to two popular chocolate factories, employing many local inhabitants - Chocolates Valor and Chocolates Clavileño. The museum housed in Villajoyosa tells the story of Don Valeriano Lopez Lloret, who started his business back in 1881 when the town first started to import the cocoa bean from Ecuador in the Eighteenth century. The factories have tours available and include a chocolate tasting area. Although the processes and recipes have been computerised, the family is of the opinion that everything will always be perfect and consistent. Churros, long finger shaped pancakes are an excellent companion to the local chocolate drink. Many bars in the town offer this combination known as Chocolate y Churros.