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. Almost 2,000 of them got away thanks to the bravery of a British captain and his crew. This is the remarkable story of the Stanbrook, still remembered nearly eighty 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.
Bridges and bullrings: visiting Ronda
Ronda has the most famous bridge in Spain, the spectacular Puente Nuevo. And there's plenty more to see in this beautiful Andalucian town.
The wine that nearly died; on the trail of Alicante fondillón
Alicante has a wine secret. It's called fondillón and it's probably the most famous wine you've never heard of. Here's the story of how fondillón was brought back from the brink of extinction.
My top ten things to do in Alicante
Great castle, nice beach, shopping, museums, nightlife; Alicante is the centre of the Costa Blanca. Here's my pick of the top things to do.
Making ancient history modern; Alicante’s MARQ museum
Museum visits are generally for rainy days. Problem is, there aren’t that many rainy days on the Costa Blanca. So visiting the archaeology museum in Alicante (MARQ) generally means sacrificing some sunshine. But it is worth it.
Villajoyosa: Spain’s capital of chocolate!
To say Villajoyosa is famous for chocolate is a bit of an understatement. Not many places can boast three working chocolate factories. Go on a visit and sample the product!
A meat-eaters guide to a Spanish menu
How to find your way round a meat menu in Spain. What to order, the different cuts of meat and styles of cooking. Everything from the most expensive steak to pigs trotters!
