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Costa Blanca, Torrevieja and Surrounding Area
The Costa Blanca, or "white coast", is situated between the two other well known areas of Costa Brava to the north and Costa del Sol in the south, and is within the region of Valencia and has the warm Mediterranean on its shores. Located on The Costa Blanca to the south-west of Alicante, Torrevieja is named from the translation of "old" or "ancient tower", a landmark which is found on the north side of the town overlooking the sea.
The tower was originally a Moorish defence and has been recently restored with gardens laid around. It is a popular place for visitors with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop. This is an area where Spanish people take their holidays. It is named by the World Health Organisation as one of the healthiest places in the world to live because of the climate.
The two natural salt lagoons lying close to the town have been recognised for centuries as being beneficial for people with chest problems, arthritis, rheumatism etc. The climate with its lowest average temperature of 15°c combined with around 320 days sunshine each year, added to the famous Mediterranean diet of fresh fish, meat, vegetables, fruit and even a glass of delicious local wine, go towards making a healthier lifestyle a reality.
It is also impossible to talk about Torrevieja without mentioning its beaches with their fine sand and crystal clear waters, without doubt the most frequented along the Mediterranean coast. They have all held the European Blue Flag for clean seas for several years, awarded for their quality and excellent installations.
Torrevieja is a typical and genuine Spanish town with narrow pedestrian streets, louvred windows and traditional shops to attract the many tourists who visit the area.
The town has an excellent indoor market which is open every morning and where deliciously fresh fish, vegetables, meat, fish and spices are displayed and sold by the Spanish stallholders.
Each Friday sees the centre of Torrevieja become a colourful market place where a superb selection of Spanish handicrafts, leather jackets, gloves, bags, baskets, shoes, pottery, textiles and souvenirs are available at excellent prices. This market is said to be one of the largest in Spain.
Local restaurants are wonderful source of "tapas" (small Spanish snacks) and chilled local wine and beers. Torrevieja boast more than 100 restaurants offering, as well as Spanish, choices of French, English, Italian, Chinese and Indian. See our useful links page for more information about the local area.
