Javea

Javea is a very popular holiday destination for those who are attracted by its fine, sandy beaches, promenade lined with bars, restaurants and shops, as well as its pretty old town.

Javea is in an ideal location as it juts out to sea – making it one of the first places on the Spanish Mediterranean to catch the morning sun. As well as attracting families and sports lovers to its shores, Javea is popular with artists as it has an unusual light. The shimmering turquoise seas and majestic Montgo mountain have provided inspiration for artists and photographers for many decades.

Midway between Alicante and Valencia, Javea is well-served by both airports which are used by low-cost airlines. It is just off the AP7 motorway and the N332 main road so it is easy to get in and out of this bustling family resort.

First, let's head for the beach. The Arenal is the main beach area with fine sands and crystal clear waters. It is easy to see why this is such a popular resort for families. The beaches are very clean and safe. The promenade running along the Arenal is lined with shops – in case you forgot to pack your bucket and spade – bars and restaurants serving everything from traditional English to seafood and Italian cuisine, for example. As you get towards the end of the Arenal, you will find chillout bars and restaurants with superb views across the bay.

 

The Port provides another outlook on Javea's coastal life. This is still a working town and the bustling port provides ample evidence of that. In the afternoon, the fishing boats make their way back to port to unload their catches which are auctioned off. Many restaurants in this area of town specialise in seafood dishes and rely on the local fishermen for their produce.

The old town has been extensively renovated in the past few years to restore the historic centre to its former glory. It is a maze of narrow streets, old churches and imposing townhouses with intricate wrought-iron balconies blooming with colourful flowers.

Walkers, divers, hikers, cyclists, golfers and tennis players also love Javea for its sports centres, caves and coves, and mountainous regions. One of the world's top tennis players David Ferrer was born in Javea and is an inspiration for many young players in the region.

Javea – also known as Xabia in the Valencian language – is a gem of antiquity and natural delights on the northern Alicante region.

   
    

MUSEUMS AND MONUMENTS

Soler Blasco Archaeological Museum

Housed in a 17th century mansion in Javea Old Town, the museum gives a taste of Javea life many centuries ago. This is one of Javea's finest buildings and worth a visit for the architecture as well as the artefacts. The original flooring and terracotta tiles still exist in one of the rooms. You can see important finds from the Bronze Age, artefacts found on the Montgo mountain and others from a Roman factory where fish was salted. Iberian treasures have also been unearthed along with a 12th century Arab tombstone.

San Bartolome church

The Gothic church in the Plaza de la Iglesia dominates the old town and dates from the 15th century or possibly even earlier. This area used to have a fortified wall to protect the town from marauding pirates.

Bolufer House

Near to San Bartolome Church, this is an architectural gem from the 19th century. On the outside, look out for the details on the gratings and balconies made in forged metal and wood.

Javea municipal market

Close to San Bartolome's church in the old town, the main fruit and veg market is housed on the plot of a former convent. The indoor market was built in 1946.

Ambolo Tower

Lookout posts to protect Javea from pirates and potential invaders were essential. The Ambolo Tower is a particularly fine example of one of these watchtowers built on top of the headland.

Javea Parador

Spain's paradors are usually former convents, palaces, castles or other important historic buildings which have been converted into fine hotels. Javea's parador was built in 1969 and paved the way for tourism in the town. It is the only parador on the Costa Blanca.

GUIDED WALKS

A good way to find out more about Javea's history – and work up an appetite – is to join one of the guided walks through the Old Town. You need to book through the tourist information office.

                            

There are many good walks in and around Javea which are well signposted and range from easy strolls to hardy hikes. You could take a walk or cycle up the Montgo, Cabo de San Antonio or Cabo La Nao for fine views out to sea. One idea is to cycle over the Montgo to Denia and then get the boat from the port back to Javea.

Local Tips

Make time to see some if not all of the 15 miradors  or viewpoints in Javea for amazing views over the Med.

Javea old town is a charming historic area - great for a drink or dining out

The Arenal is a beautiful beach for children. There's a little play area and plenty of cafes and bars for snacks and drinks.

The Granadella beach is gorgeous, especially the amazing colours of the water. In high season, get there early as it's very popular

Javea has its own microbrewery serving Xabiga beer. It's very refreshing. Some of the local bars and shops sell it.

Javea Arenal is also great for nightlife with a variety of bars, restaurants and live music venues. Many serve lovely cocktails!

BOOK YOUR HOTEL IN JAVEA HERE