Natural beauty, rich history and charming villages await you in Benissa and the surrounding region on the Costa Blanca in Spain. Whether you are an adventurous traveller who likes to explore nature, a history buff who wants to discover ancient sights, or just want to relax on beautiful beaches, Benissa has something for everyone. Here is our top 10 sights to see in Benissa and the surrounding areas.
1. Peñón de Ifach
Just outside Benissa is the impressive rock of Peñón de Ifach, a natural park and a popular place to hike and enjoy panoramic views of the Costa Blanca.
Since its creation, the Peñon de Ifach has been dominated by nature. This natural wonder is therefore home to a rich collection of rare plants found only on this rock. Moreover, it is a regular destination for many birds. At the foot of the rock there is a lagoon that is especially popular with flamingos. There is also a swamp with an area of no less than 45 hectares. Moreover, you have a magnificent view of the saltwater lake Las Salinas, the old town of Calpe and also the neighbouring island of Ibiza. Due to the great variety of plants and birds, this rock has been declared a unique natural park: Parc Natural
Long ago, the Iberians and Romans did consider including this location in military strategy. In the 15the century, walls were built around the village even further inland, some of which have survived (Torreón de la Peça).
To the top of the Calpe Rock
The walk from the car park all the way to the top of "the Rock of Calpe" and back takes between 2.5 hours and 3 hours, including a rest break. The walk to the top of "the rock of Calpe" is less strenuous than, for example, the walk to the caves of Cova Tallada in Jávea, but bring plenty of water here too. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen and sunglasses, too.
Access to the park is free all year round, except in October and November (which is the rainy season). It is possible to climb the rock via several climbing routes. There are 11 routes on the south side and six on the north side, depending on your level of fitness. But each route offers a beautiful experience and fantastic views.
2. Cala Baladrar
Cala Baladrar is another gem on the Benissa coast. This small beach has an intimate atmosphere and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and pine trees. The bay is known for its tranquillity and beautiful scenery, making it the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy this natural beauty.
A cliff divides this bay into El Baladrar and La Goleta. It starts with the pebbly Barranco "dels Sesters" and ends with a 30-metre-high cliff. The bay is protected from easterly winds and its shallow, clear waters and abundant aquatic life make it the perfect spot.
Although Cala Baladrar has no major amenities, there is a charming Xiringuito Olala (beach bar) where you can enjoy tapas and drinks overlooking the sea. This beach is also popular with snorkellers for its crystal-clear waters and diverse underwater fauna.
3. Historic Centre of Benissa
One of the most enchanting aspects of Benissa is its historic town centre. The historic mansions from the 18th century show you Benissa's architectural splendour. You can stroll through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved facades. Stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the well-preserved architecture. The church of the Purissima Xiqueta, with its Gothic and neoclassical elements, is a prominent landmark in the centre. Stroll along the Plaza del Portal de El Calvari, a picturesque square surrounded by colourful buildings and cosy cafés. Don't forget to take some time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the local cuisine in one of the charming restaurants.
Church of the Purissima Xiqueta
Beautifully impressive, distinctive white neo-Gothic-style building to visit inside. Built in the 1920s by the locals themselves, the church was nicknamed the Sea Cathedral because of its dimensions of almost 60 metres in length and about 30 metres in height. Depending on the time of day, one can enjoy more or somewhat less of the sophisticated light, including on the gold-clad statue of the patron saint above the main altar, through the beautiful dome that adorns this church. There are beautiful gilded altars in the side aisles and the main altar is also beautifully decorated and you can park your car in the square in front of the church.
Walking route Historic centre of Benissa
Starting point: La Plaza del Portal with the town hall. In the late 18th century, a hospital for the town's poor and sick stood on this spot. Benissa used to be a walled town with the main entrance gate here, at the top of the street known today as calle "Puríssima". Take time to stroll down this typical medieval street, with its impressive mansions, locals and balconies with ornate iron railings. Stroll through the Plaza de la Iglesia Vieja, where the fortified church of San Pedro used to stand, admire the 16th-century Consell Hall and the Riberero monument built in honour of the inhabitants of Benissa who emigrated to the Valencia Ribera region to work rice fields there.
Across the road, you will see Casa de la Cultura, a former mansion built next to the famous Juan Vives house, where the miraculous image of the patron saint of Benissa is kept, known to all as La Puríssima Xiqueta.
Past the Consell Hall, you enter a small street called Calle del Angel that leads to Calle dels Desamparats. This street is really worth a visit as here you can see the noblemen's houses of the past. At the end of Calle dels Desamparats, turn left to "El Casal dels Joves" (Youth Centre) with its interesting exterior design. Then continue until you reach the C/Puríssima again. You will then come to la Iglesia de la Puríssima Xiqueta, built in neo-Gothic style.
la Iglesia de la Puríssima Xiqueta
This church of extraordinary proportions is located right in the centre of the old town. For obvious reasons, it is known here as the "Cathedral of the Marina". Inside by the altar you will find the enthroned statue of the Puríssima Xiqueta, patroness of Benissa; it is taken in procession every 4th Sunday of April during the celebration of the town's festivals.
From here, walk slowly through the streets and in 10 minutes you will reach the 17th-century Franciscan monastery. The façade is that of a fortified building, but inside the cloister there is an atmosphere of intimacy and serenity. Next to the cloisters is the church itself with a beautiful 18th-century altarpiece and an excellent wooden sculpture of St Anthony of Padua.
4. La Cova dels Arcs
Cova dels Arcs Its striking rock arches in the water near a rugged bay combine to form an impressive sea cave. Cova dels Arcs is located on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Costa Blanca and is next to Cala del Moraig. Cala del Moraig is an amazingly picturesque place, a bay with turquoise clear waters surrounded by mountains and cliffs.
The Cova dels Arcs is one of the better examples of drainage of a karstic system formed over 60,000 years. It is a popular spot among divers and cavers attracted by its breathtaking scenery.
Cava dels Arcs is also a beautiful dive site with plenty to see. You dive along a wall with a number of caves, some of which are large enough to swim through. One of these caves is partly open and partly covered and at the end you can make an ascent. You then emerge at the top of the open cave. In and around the rocks you will encounter schools of fish, cuttlefish, octopus and moray eels.
5. Sierra de Bernia Natural Park
For lovers of hiking and natural beauty, the Sierra de Bernia Natural Park is a must-visit. Here you will find a network of hiking trails winding through breathtaking landscapes. While hiking, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside. The park offers different levels of difficulty, so both beginners and experienced hikers can enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
The sierra de Bernia is a small mountain range an hour south of Valencia. This nature reserve extends inland 20 km into the interior of the Costa Blanca, unaffected by mass tourism and is already largely protected area at present.
Rich flora and fauna
In this area you will find a huge wealth of fauna: wild boar, foxes, genets (cat/martin-like), martens, ermine and weasel. Several species of reptiles and a huge wealth of songbirds, owls, falcons, buzzards and other large birds of prey. Flora: Besides the olive, almond tree and algarobo (carob tree) and the disc or fig cactus, the area is dominated by pinos (Scots pine). The original vegetation cactus oak and cork oak can also still be found here. Depending on the time of year, herbs such as: fennel, rosemary, camomile, thyme and lavender give off the spicy air typical of this area.
Casas de Bernia hiking trail
The hiking trail around the Sierra de Bernia mountain range is perhaps our favourite hiking trail on the Costa Blanca. The natural tunnel El Forat, the remains of the Fort of Bernia and the panoramic views make this a walking route not to be missed. However, this does make the route very popular. Therefore, make sure you go as early as possible to get ahead of the crowds.
We recommend starting from the starting point (Les Cases de Bèrnia) starting the route clockwise. You then quickly get a tough climb to the tunnel, then go up and down for a while, and finally finish with an easy descent. Are you an experienced hiker? Then you can even choose to climb Mount Bernia.
- Level: medium
- Length: ± 9 km
- Walking time: ± 3.5 hours
- Start and finish: Les Cases de Bernia
6. Castell de Moraira
A picturesque castle overlooking the town of Moraira. It offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding areas.
An 18th-century fortress on a small rock on the beach at l'Ampolla in Moraira. The Bourbon royal coat of arms is located above the entrance door and gives the date 1742, which should indicate the year the construction work was completed. The Castillo de Moraira was built to protect the town from the endemic Berber pirate attacks along this coast. The shape of the building is known as a pezuña de buey (ox hoof) - with a semicircular south side and a straight north side with the gate.
Inside, there are three wings and two floors. The castle is 10 metres high. A lookout was kept from small gaps in the walls, and cannons were mounted in the cannon ports around the top of the castle. It is known to have been armed with four bronze cannons and was badly damaged by the British Navy on 20 July 1801.
The castle was fully restored in the early 1980s and is today in good condition with a wide panoramic view of the various beaches.
7. Les Bassetes (Water sports)
Benissa's coastline offers plenty of opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you want to snorkel, dive, sail or just swim, there is something for everyone. There are diving schools and water sports equipment rentals available, so even if you are not an experienced diver or sailor, you can explore the underwater world or feel the wind in your sails. Les Bassetes is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. You can undertake the following here.
Courses and lessons
- Catamaran courses & lessons
- Windsurfing courses & lessons
- WingFoiling courses & lessons
- Stand Up Paddle Surf (SUP) courses & lessons
- Kayaking & Canoeing courses & lessons
- Water sports camps Multiactivity water sports camps for children and young people
- Sailing courses for children and young people
Rental
- Catamaran hire - Hobie Cat Latest Models
- Windsurfing Rental - Gaastra / Tabou International Center
- Stand Up Paddle Surf Rental - Red Paddle Co
- Kayaking & Canoeing Rental & To Take Away - RTM
- eBoards – A completely new way to explore the coast
Excursions & Tours
- eBoards Coastal Excursion
- Kayaking & Canoeing Breakfast Excursion
- Kayaking & Canoeing Coastal Excursions + Snorkelling & Rock Jumping
- Full Moon Adventure - Under the Stars & the Full Moon
- Stand Up Paddle Surf Breakfast Excursion
- Catamaran Sailing experience with Coastal Reconnaissance and Snorkelling
- Catamaran Adventures around the Costa Blanca
Check out the site of Las Antipodes for all possibilities.
8. Altea
Although just outside Benissa, the picturesque village of Altea is definitely worth a visit. It has narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and an atmospheric old town.
In Altea, numerous civilisations (Iberians, Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans and Muslims) left their mark and influence throughout history. In the 17th century, the town often had to deal with pirates. Since the 18th century, it became a haven for many artists; writers and musicians. In the 1960s-70s, it was still very popular with creatives and Altea took on a Bohemian feel.
Culture & gastronomy in Altea
Altea is culture and therefore immediately bears the title as the "cultural capital" of the Valencian Community. Thus, it houses Palau de Altea with a Faculty of Fine Arts of the University. It is also a music conservatory and a cultural centre and Ethnic Music Museum.
Altea's oldest district is home to the "Torra de Bellaguarda". This is a former tower of the city wall which, like the "Torre de la Galera", has been declared a cultural heritage site. The "Iglesia nuestra Senora del Consuelo" can be considered the symbol of Altea. This parish church dates from the early 20th century. Apart from its elevated position, the double blue domes with white decoration stand out in particular. Because of its elevated position, it is often called the "Iglesia de Arriba" (elevated church). This is a charming parish worth seeing.
The gastronomy in Altea has influences from different cultures. Typical Altea meals include salazones (salted fish), "coques al forn" and an Argentinian recipe of lamb on the cross. The restaurants in Altea offer a variety of excellent gastronomy.
9. Markets
If you are interested in local produce and crafts, make sure you visit the weekly markets. On Saturday mornings, explore the street market in Benissa, where you can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade jewellery and souvenirs.
Markets near Benissa
Monday
- Parcent | Plaza del Poble | 08:00 - 13:00
- Dénia | Carrer Germans Maristes | 08:00 - 13:30
Tuesday
- Altea | Camí de al Algar | 08:00 - 14:00
- Jalón | Plaza de la Iglesia | 08:00 - 13:00
- Beniarbeig | Calle San Juan | 08:00 - 14:00
- Orihuela | Avenida Marques de Molins | 08:00 - 14:00 uu
Wednesday
- Ondara | Calle del Pintor Murillo | 08:00 - 13:00
- Polop | Plaza de los Chorros | 08:00 - 14:00
- Benitachell | Calle del Mercado | 08:00 - 13:00
- Teulada | Calle Alacant | 09:00 - 14:00
- Benidorm | Careterra Albir | 08:00 - 14:00
- El Campello | Plaza San Christol Lez Ales | 08:00 - 13:00
- Muchamiel | Calle Ramón y Cajal | 08:00 - 13:00
Thursday
- Gandía | Recinto Ferial - Parc Ausías March | 08:00 - 14:00
- Pego | Plaza del Antic | 08:00 - 13:00
- Jávea | Plaza de la Constitucíon | 08:30 - 14:00
- Benidoleig | Plaza País Valencia | 08:00 - 14:00
- Villajoyosa | Avenida Carles Llorca y Baus | 08:00 - 14:00
- Alicante | Calle Doctor Nieto | 07:00 - 14:00
Friday
- Oliva | Paseo Lluis Vives | 09:00 - 14:00
- Dénia | Carrer Germans Maristes | 08:00 - 14:00
- Moraira | parking Avenida Madrid | 08:30 - 13:30
- L'Alfás del Pi | Calle Ejércitos Españoles | 08:00 - 13:00
- Gata de Gorgos | Plaza Nova | 08:00 - 13:00
- Finestrat | Calle L´Hort | 08:00 - 13:00
Saturday
- Benissa | Calle Sant Josep | 08:00 - 13:30
- Calpe | Avenida de Rumania | 08:00 - 14:00
- Pedreguer | Plaza del Mercado | 08:00 - 13:00
- Santa Pola | Avenida de Albacete | 08:00 - 14:00
- Jalon | Avenida rey Juan Carlos | 07:00 - 15:00
Sunday
- Benidorm | Careterra Albir | 08:00 - 14:00
- Jesus Pobre | Carrer del Pinaret | 09:00 - 14:00
- Alicante | Calle Doctor Nieto | 07:00 - 14:00
