Are you ready for an unforgettable Spanish getaway? Nestled on the Costa Blanca, Villajoyosa, or La Vila Joiosa, offers a vibrant and picturesque escape from the ordinary. This charming coastal town is a hidden gem, known for its colorful old town, beautiful beaches, and rich history. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a mesmerizing journey through Villajoyosa’s enchanting streets, azure waters, and mouthwatering cuisine, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this joyful town!
- Explore the vibrant streets of Villajoyosa’s old town & discover its beautiful beaches!
- Indulge in delicious local cuisine & experience the rich history of this charming Spanish destination.
- Enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and find perfect accommodation for your stay – all while soaking up some sun on Costa Blanca’s golden shores!
Exploring Villajoyosa’s Colorful Old Town
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Villajoyosa, Spain, a place that dazzles your senses at every turn. Located along the stunning Costa Blanca, the coastal town’s colorful old town, or la vila joiosa, is a delightful maze of narrow streets and charming squares, adorned with bright and colorful houses. Roaming the town, the row of palm trees and the infectious joy in the atmosphere will surely charm you.
The prime spot to admire the town’s vibrant architecture is Carrer Arsenal, a street named after the nearby boatyard where warships were once built. For an elevated picturesque view of the hanging houses that decorate the defensive walls, make your way to the road bridge that spans the River Amadorio. After exploring these captivating streets, take a refreshing walk through the River Valley Park, a delightful path that follows the river towards the sea, providing shade amongst the trees.
Aside from the colorful houses, the Villajoyosa old town also boasts impressive historical landmarks, such as the remains of the 16th-century defensive walls, the stunning Santa Maria de la Vila Joiosa church, and the fascinating La Vila Museum. These attractions provide a fascinating peek into the town’s rich history, transforming your Villajoyosa visit into a memorable trip back in time.
Uncovering the Beautiful Beaches
Beyond the vibrant old town, Villajoyosa boasts a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches and picturesque coves waiting to be discovered. From the town’s main sandy beach to secluded havens and even nudist beaches, the area offers a variety of atmospheres and landscapes to suit every taste, making Villajoyosa beaches a must-visit destination.
In the upcoming segments, we’ll reveal the allure of Playa La Villajoyosa, the peaceful ambience of Paradise Beach (Playa El Paraiso), and the mystical charm of Playa del Bol Nou.
Playa La Villajoyosa
As the town’s main beach, Playa La Villajoyosa is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to soak up the sun on the soft golden sand and swim in the azure waters. This beautiful beach, also known as Playa Centro, is a blue flag beach, ensuring a clean and safe environment for visitors. Framed by swaying palm trees, Playa La Villajoyosa offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day by the sea.
The surrounding area of Playa La Villajoyosa offers:
- A palm-lined promenade
- A bustling marina
- An array of bars, cafés, and restaurants offering delicious refreshments and local delicacies
- Sun loungers, umbrellas, and various amenities on the beach
- Accessible beach facilities for people with disabilities during the high summer season
This premier spot establishes Playa La Villajoyosa as the go-to destination for a day filled with sun, sand, and sea.
Paradise Beach (Playa El Paraiso)
For those seeking a more serene beach experience, Paradise Beach, or Playa El Paraiso, is the perfect destination. This 1 km-long natural beach area is composed of sand and stone, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting. The beach is lined with palm trees, offering much-needed shade on hot summer days, while the crystal-clear waters invite you to dive in and cool off.
Playa El Paraiso offers many amenities to its visitors, including:
- A snack bar
- Free parking in the vicinity
- Sun-bed and parasol rental
- Foot washing stations
- Lifeguards
- A pedestrian and bike path
Despite its pebbly nature and less suitability for families with young children, the serene environment and breathtaking natural beauty establish it as a haven for those in search of tranquillity.
Playa del Bol Nou
Nestled between rocky outcrops and surrounded by cliffs, Playa del Bol Nou is a secluded and charming cove that offers soft sand, turquoise waters, and a peaceful ambiance. This hidden gem is perfect for visitors looking to escape the crowds and enjoy an intimate connection with nature.
The high cliffs and bright soft sand contrast beautifully with the dazzling turquoise blue sea, creating a mesmerizing scene that is sure to take your breath away. With foot washing stations, lifeguard service, and a beach bar, Playa del Bol Nou provides all the necessary amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable day at the beautiful sandy beaches.
The peaceful ambiance and mesmerizing landscape earmark this secluded beach as a must-see for anyone yearning for a secluded and serene experience.
Delighting in Local Cuisine
A visit to Villajoyosa is incomplete without a taste of the delectable local cuisine. The town’s culinary scene features Valencian classics with a heavy lean toward seafood dishes, offering a true taste of the Mediterranean. Savor traditional dishes such as:
- Pebrereta
- Seafood paella
- Octopus
- Squid
- Freshly-caught fish
- Various types of flatbreads called cocas floreadas, rellenas, and escaldadas.
Some popular spots for sampling the best seafood dishes in Villajoyosa include:
- Taverna Valenciana El Posit: Known for its seafood paella, octopus, squid, freshly-caught fish, and a variety of tapas.
- Restaurante Ca Marta: A seafood restaurant serving traditional and local food.
- Restaurante Hogar del Pescador: Known for its beautifully presented seafood dishes with higher-end ingredients.
With such a variety of mouthwatering options, your taste buds will surely thank you for visiting Villajoyosa!
Experiencing Villajoyosa’s Rich History
Villajoyosa’s rich history dates back to the Bronze Age, and its strategic location played a crucial role in defending against pirate attacks. Exploring the town will lead you to local landmarks and towers that bear witness to its rich history. Some notable landmarks include:
- The Aguiló Tower: a 16th-century watchtower built to defend the coast from pirates.
- The Church of the Assumption: a beautiful church dating back to the 16th century.
- The Valor Chocolate Factory: a historic chocolate factory that offers tours and tastings.
For a deeper dive into the town’s history, visit the following attractions:
- La Vila Museum: See exciting artifacts from the Phoenician and Roman eras.
- Bou Ferrer: Explore the incredible Roman shipwreck off the coast of Villajoyosa.
- Tower of Hercules: Visit the largest and most impressive Roman funerary tower preserved in Spain.
Visiting these historical landmarks and delving into the town’s past will foster a deep appreciation for the resilience and determination of the Villajoyosa inhabitants. Their rich history and culture continue to shape the town today, making it a truly unique destination.
Visiting the Valor Chocolate Museum
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be thrilled to visit the Valor Chocolate Museum, one of the town’s most popular attractions. This place offers an opportunity to learn about the evolution of chocolate-making while sampling a variety of scrumptious treats.
The Valor Chocolate Museum offers free tours, allowing you to explore the fascinating world of chocolate production and indulge in the finest treats this famous chocolate factory has to offer. Don’t forget to visit the museum’s amazing chocolate shop, where you can find the perfect souvenir to take home and share with friends and family.
Adding the Valor Chocolate Museum to your itinerary is bound to be one of the highlights of your Villajoyosa journey!
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Villajoyosa’s prime location on the Costa Blanca makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the bustling city of Alicante, with its beautiful beaches, historic Castle of Santa Barbara, and the picturesque island of Tabarca, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
For a more lively atmosphere, head to the tourist haven of Benidorm, just fifteen minutes away by car or just over half an hour by bus or tram. Here, you can:
- Experience the vibrant nightlife
- Visit theme parks
- Hike the scenic Torres al Aguilo Trail, which starts at Playa de Torres and ends at Playa Finestrat in Benidorm, offering stunning coves and incredible sea views along the way.
With a myriad of accessible exciting attractions, Villajoyosa serves as the perfect starting point for your Costa Blanca exploration.
Finding the Perfect Accommodation
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly lodging or a luxurious stay, Villajoyosa offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. For budget-conscious travelers, apartments and studios present the most economical choices, with rates oscillating between €80-110 during the height of summer.
If you’re seeking a more luxurious experience, some noteworthy accommodations in Villajoyosa include:
- Hotel Allon Mediterrania: a modern and beachfront hotel that offers top-notch amenities and stunning sea views
- Rosal by Vilamassalia: with its nearby restaurants, bike and car rental, and touristic information
- Casa Hermes: offering a variety of stylish apartment sizes starting at about €150 per night during the summer season
These diverse accommodation options guarantee you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of Villajoyosa exploration.
Enjoying Outdoor Activities
Villajoyosa offers a variety of outdoor activities for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on the Torres al Aguilo Trail, which starts at Playa del Torres and ends at Playa Finestrat in Benidorm, passing through breathtaking coves and offering incredible views of the sea and Benidorm city.
For a more leisurely outdoor experience, consider walking along the picturesque promenade or strolling through the historic Camino de Santiago, where you’ll encounter little golden shells built into the floor and yellow arrows guiding pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. The assortment of outdoor activities ensures there’s an enjoyable experience for everyone in Villajoyosa.
Celebrating Local Festivities
Immerse yourself in Spanish culture and traditions by experiencing Villajoyosa’s vibrant local festivities. The Moors and Christians Festival is the most important celebration of the town. It holds great reverence to Santa Marta and signifies an important event, when Barbary pirates tried to invade the town in 1538.
During the seven-day festival, participants dressed in colorful costumes parade through the streets, representing both factions. Christians wear blue costumes, while Moors wear fully ornamented red costumes. The highlight of the festival is the reenactment of the 1538 battle, showcasing the town’s victory over the pirates and honoring Santa Marta’s role in defending the town.
Another local celebration worth experiencing is the festival of San Juan. This lively event showcases Spanish culture and traditions, with music, dancing, and bonfires filling the streets. Partaking in these local festivities will deepen your understanding of Villajoyosa’s rich culture and enlighten you about the town’s intriguing history.
Transportation Tips
Here are some useful transportation tips to facilitate a seamless and trouble-free travel to Villajoyosa. The closest airports to Villajoyosa are in Alicante and Valencia, with the former being the most convenient option. From Alicante airport, you can take a shared shuttle bus for just €17 each way, which can be pre-booked on Beniconnect.
Hiring a car in Villajoyosa is the best option if you want to avoid any problems. You will also have the flexibility to plan where to go and when. Off-season is a great time to rent a car. You can get cars for as little as €15 a day. Alternatively, you can take an ALSA bus or tram Line 1 to explore nearby attractions such as Benidorm, with fares ranging between €3-5.
For parking in Villajoyosa, there is a free parking lot located just 5 minutes away from the old town. With these transportation tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth and enjoyable journey to this charming coastal town.
Summary
In conclusion, Villajoyosa is a captivating coastal town offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From exploring the colorful old town to uncovering beautiful beaches, indulging in local delicacies, and experiencing vibrant local festivities, your visit to this joyful town on the Costa Blanca will be nothing short of unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a mesmerizing journey to Villajoyosa, Spain, where unforgettable memories await you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Villajoyosa known for?
Villajoyosa, known as La Vila Joiosa or simply La Vila to the locals, is famous for its colorful houses, breathtaking beaches, and world-renowned Valor chocolate.
Is a Villajoyosa a nice place to live?
Living in Villajoyosa is perfect for families with children, providing wide beaches, traditional Spanish charm and great infrastructure. Plus, being close to the big city while enjoying a relaxing holiday by the sea makes it highly desirable, making real estate in high demand.
How far is Villajoyosa from airport?
It’s only 50 km from Villajoyosa to Alicante airport, so you can get there quickly and easily!
What is the best time of year to visit Villajoyosa?
Experience the perfect summer beach vacation at Villajoyosa by visiting during June, July, August, and September when temperatures are warm and inviting!
Are there any must-visit attractions in Villajoyosa’s old town?
You won’t want to miss the incredible Carrer Arsenal, gorgeous River Valley Park, and beautiful Santa Maria de la Vila Joiosa church in Villajoyosa’s old town – a real treat for visitors!
Discover Valencian Community
Each region of Spain is divided into provinces. Their names often coincide with the names of their main cities. Valencian Community is divided into three provinces, each of which has different tourist attractions and interesting places to offer:| Province | Tourist attractions and interesting places |
| Valencia | City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias), Valencia Oceanarium, BIOPARC Valencia, Mercado Central in Valencia, Turia Gardens, Valencia CathedralPopular cities: Valencia |
| Alicante | Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Bárbara), Canelobre Caves, Explanada de España, Volvo Ocean Race Museum, Puerto de Alicante, Terra Mítica Amusement Park, El Peñón de Ifach Natural park, beaches in Alicante (i.e. Playa del Postiguet, Playa de San Juan), Torrevieja (i.e. El Cura, Playa de la Mata, Playa de los Locos), Granadella (Playa de la Granadella) in Jávea.Popular cities: Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja, Jávea, Santa Pola, Elche, Villajoyosa, Calpe, El Campello, Altea, San Juan de Alicante, Guardamar del Segura, La Marina, San Miguel de Salinas, Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Pilar de la Horadada, Cabo Roig, Ciudad Quesada, L'Alfàs del Pi, komarka Baix Vinalopó |
| Castellón | Popular cities: Castellón de la Plana |
