Golf Courses and White Sandy Beaches
Orihuela Costa is known around the world for its golf courses, but even more for its playas with beautiful white sandy beaches and bright water, its creeks and its steep cliffs. Two of its famous beaches are Cabo Roig (photo on the left) and Playa Flamenca, which is named after the Flemish construction engineers who set up numerous building projects in the 1980s.
The Orihuela coastal area counts not less than 57 urbanizations (La Regia, Lomas De Don Juan, Lomas de Campoamor, etc.) which differ significantly in size and composition.
Cities
Not only beautiful beaches and cliffs, but also stunning landscapes, nature reserves, orange and lemon plantations are omnipresent. Pubs and restaurants can be found at walking distance. The nearby cities also offer numerous gastronomic and cultural options:
Torrevieja is a seaside city located at the Mediterranean Sea, with a beach of approximately 20km and about 91.000 inhabitants. In summer, the population can rise up to 650.000 people, because Torrevieja is also very popular among the Spanish themselves. The salt lakes (salinas) are among the largest in Europe. In the nature reserve of La Mata, you can spot wild flamingos. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: 8 kilometers.
Murcia is the capital of the region. It’s a lively university city with lots of nice squares and terraces. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan to Center of Murcia: approximately 60 kilometers.
Alicante is the second largest city of the province. The city has a relatively large airport (just outside the center). Known for its museums, monuments and lots of small streets. Surrounded by six nature reserves. A few kilometers from Alicante, you can find the mountain village of Guadelest, a popular touristic attraction. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: approximately 50 kilometers.
Elche (or Elx) is located twenty kilometers South-West of Alicante. Its archaeological sites are very famous, as well as its more than 300,000 palm trees – the ‘Palmeral’ is a UNESCO World Heritage site – which give an exotic dimension to the city. The more than 11,000 different types of palm trees within the old walled city are a magnificent view. Click here for more information on the Ruta del Palmeral. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: approximately 50 kilometers.
Guardamar del Segura, north of Torrevieja, is strategically located on the Segura estuary. It used to be a Greek and Arab settlement, and afterwards an important archeological site. In 1829, an earthquake destroyed the entire city. Afterwards, the ‘guardamarencos’ were troubled by the growing number of dunes. The subsequent reforestation saw the creation of the current Forest Parkland, a gigantic nature reserve of not less than 840 hectares. Strongly recommended as well: the Reina Sofia Parc, where you can have a relaxing walk among lakes and waterfalls. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: 22 kilometers.
Cartagena is a historical city and today still one of the most important harbors of the country. It is surrounded by a wall with 8 gates. The deep bay is considered to be one of the most beautiful natural harbors. Two capes stick out and contain fortresses, in order to ‘protect’ the city. The cathedral of Santa Maria Veja dates from the 13th century and the ruins of Castillo de la Concepcion offer a magnificent view. Furthermore, Cartagena is famous for its worldwide export of the sweet ‘cuarenta y tres’ liquor. Around the city, volcanic residues and the typical traditional windmills can be found. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: approximately 45 kilometers.
La Vila Joiosa, located on the coast between Alicante en Benidorm, is a colorful fishing village. Late July, the city houses the famous celebrations of ‘Moros y Cristianos’, which include parades, music and fireworks. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: 110 kilometers.
Altea, right above Benidorm, is a typical white, beautiful Mediterranean village. The Algar river or the ‘Rio de la Salud’ (‘River of Health’) runs through the village, because of its curing water. Altea used to be a meeting place for hippies. Today, there are still a few art galleries left. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: 130 kilometers. Recommended as well: Calp (or Calpe), with its beautiful rock ‘El peñon de Ifach’ (332m high).
Valencia is the second biggest city of the country. Founded by the Romans, Valencia is today still an important economic city. It is the birthplace of paella. This amazing city – with its beautiful architecture, interesting museums, great number of events, amazing beaches and fantastic squares – offers enough ingredients for a genuine city trip. Distance from Lomas de Don Juan: 230 kilometers.
Markets
The market in Torrevieja (Friday 9am-2pm) is one of the biggest in Spain. Other markets nearby include: Playa Flamenca (Saturday), Alicante (Tuesday and Thursday) and Orihuela (Tuesday).
Shopping
In almost every neighborhood, there are stores where you can buy provisions and clothing. Good to know: there is an Aldi nearby (street: Carretera San Miguel Salinas). This is the closest store, on less than 500m walking distance of the apartment. Open until 9pm.
Zenia Boulevard is located nearby the apartment, in La Zenia (Calle Jade). This wonderful mall opened its doors late 2012 and offers more than 150 famous brands, which makes it one of the biggest shopping centers in Spain. Definitely worth visiting! More information can be found on the Zenia Boulevard website.
Climate
And last but not least, the climate! Did you know that the nice sea climate of the Costa Blanca is the most healthy climate in Europe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)? The high level of iodine in the air – thanks to the salt lakes (‘salinas’) and the absence of heavy industry – is very beneficial for our health. It is not a coincidence that this region counts a lot of centers that treat heart and cardiovascular diseases, rheumatism and skin conditions.
