The Costa Blanca - South-eastern Spain - Without doubt a huge majority of visitors who travel to the Costa Blanca each year do so mainly to take advantage of the sun, the sea and the beaches, It would be a mistake however to think that this is all the Costa Blanca has to offer, a quick glance at a travel guide of the area will confirm that there are a great many places of interest to visit and enjoy.
Exactly where the Costa Blanca (White Coast) begins and ends is not clearly defined but the region comprises approximately 200 km of coastline stretching from Gandia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south, it also takes in a large hinterland with areas of mountains, sierras, river valleys and natural parks. The area to the north of Gandia is called the Costa del Azahar (Orange Blossom Coast) and the area to the south of Pilar is known as the Costa Calida (Warm Coast).
The entire Costa Blanca region has a rich and distinguished history and many artefacts have been found dating back to the Neolithic Era. Lying as it does in an important strategic position on the Mediterranean coastline, the Costa Blanca has been invaded and occupied by various important civilizations including Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths, Carthaginians and Moors. Each civilization has left its own identity on the region and each has resulted in significant cultural and religious consequences for the indigenous population. Perhaps the greatest influences on the region were caused during the Roman and Arab occupations, which both moulded the areas subsequent history.
A different kind of invasion occurred during the 20th Century - that of tourism, and this has probably resulted in the most rapid and dramatic changes in the Costa Blanca's history so far. A huge amount of development has taken place and the economy of the region has undergone sweeping changes. Towns and villages which formerly relied on fishing, agriculture and salt production now rely almost entirely on tourism and related industries and many new jobs have been created, increasing the wealth of the region and its inhabitants.
The main attraction for holidaymakers (especially north Europeans) is of course the wonderful climate, with over 300 days of sunshine each year and very low rainfall, it is the perfect location for a relaxing summer holiday or a well earned winter break. Sunshine is virtually guaranteed from May to October so it is not necessary to confine visits to the popular months of July and August. In the months of December and January the Costa Blanca normally enjoys some beautiful sunny days, so it is a great place to take a break away from the dismal weather of the UK and other north European countries.
For many it may even be a mistake to visit during July and August as temperatures can soar into the 40's and for some this is simply too hot. If visiting during these months make sure you bring plenty of high factor sun lotion for yourself and particularly for young children, if in doubt try to confine your visits to the cooler months. May and October are usually beautiful and sunny but without the uncomfortable high temperatures, June and September can also be very hot.
The Costa Blanca has some of the best beaches in Spain and they are usually very well cared for and safe, there are a large number of 'blue flag' beaches and these are normally cleaned every day and will often have life-guards on duty during the busy summer months. Some of the more popular beaches can get very busy during July and August but if you take some time to explore a little, you may find quiet and isolated beaches even during the high season.
Overall the Costa Blanca has much to offer holidaymakers and tourists of all types, fine beaches for sun lovers, ancient towns and cities for culture lovers and wonderful natural parks for nature lovers. Try a visit some time soon and enjoy a little of what the Costa Blanca has to offer.
