Plenty of tourists head for Santander and Bilbao on the ferry. Most then disappear southwards to the costas...but both cities, though completely different, are well worth a stay.
Author: viewfromlavila
I blog mostly about my favourite corner of Spain — Villajoyosa on the Costa Blanca — but also anything else in Spain that takes my fancy. I’m based in London, but spend as much time in Villajoyosa (aka La Vila Joiosa, or La Vila for short) as I can get away with.
Spain’s green north: driving through the Aragón Pyrenees
The Pyrenees are green and spectacularly beautiful in summer, a real contrast to the Costas. Here are some highlights we found in the mountains of Aragón.
Moros y Cristianos: why Villajoyosa’s fiesta is unique in Spain
The little town of Villajoyosa has a great Moros y Cristianos fiesta. It’s unlike any other in Spain - and let’s face it, there’s quite a lot of competition in that department
Top walks around Villajoyosa: the five-beach walk from Malladeta to Xarco watchtower
A gentle coastal walk southwards from the tower at the Malladeta headland on the outskirts of Villajoyosa, taking in five of La Vila’s beaches on the way.
Bikinis and the bishop; how sinful Benidorm got its Cross
Let's face it, Benidorm has a certain reputation. And its (allegedly) sinful past is the reason for the Benidorm Cross, the huge crucifix that overlooks the high rise hotels and the beautiful beaches.
Top walks around Villajoyosa: La Ermita up to the Amadorio reservoir
An easy walk inland from the village of La Ermita up to the imposing dam on the Rio Amadorio with beautiful views of the mountains, catching a few curiosities on the way.
On the hunt for Alicante’s best wines; a bodega tour
Alicante's wines haven't always grabbed the attention; the Rioja and Ribera del Duero get all the glory. But there are some real gems here on the Costa Blanca. Here are a few we've tried.
The Stanbrook story: the unlikely British heroes of Alicante’s darkest hour
In March 1939, Alicante port was full of Republican refugees desperate to escape as Spain's civil war neared its end. Nearly 3,000 got away thanks to the bravery of a British captain and his crew. This is the remarkable story of the Stanbrook, still remembered 80 years on.
There’s more to a Spanish deli than just chorizo!
Spain has a great regional tradition for cold meats . Every part of the country seems to have its own speciality. Here's a guide.
The shadow hanging over almond blossom time on the Costa Blanca
Almond blossom is one of the springtime sights on the Costa Blanca. But its future is threatened by a pest attacking the almond trees. And so far, there's no cure.
