Gastronomic Benidorm 2024 - Days of the Spoon 1st to 10th March

Gastronomic Benidorm 2024 #BenidormFreshandTasty known as Days of the Spoon, this is the 12th year for this event, which is held to celebrate the fantastic local food of Benidorm, the commitment of our local restaurateurs for both quality and local products and for their innovation in gastronomic creations.

This is a fantastic opportunity to try some of Benidorm's local stews, rice and fish dishes, all of which are prepared with products that are grown  locally such as citrus fruits from the Valencian orchards, vegetables from the Segura and fish from the markets.

There are 12 restaurants participating this year, all offering a fabulous Menu del Dia for only 25€ see details below.

 Toni Pérez, Mayor of Benidorm

Benidorm's gastronomic offer is growing, year after year, as a standard-bearer of our
 tourist offer, an offer that pays attention to each one of the elements that invite our
 visitors to return. 'Gastronomic Benidorm' maintains proposals that allow us to project
 the image of Benidorm through our cuisine. 
After the success of the 'Tapa Fest', Gastronomic Benidorm starts with the 'Spoon Days',
 celebrating its twelfth edition and which are, to a large extent, a return to our ancestors.
 There are few cold days in Benidorm, but on those days, we are grateful for a good
 casserole like the ones our grandmothers made. These days offer us stews capable of
 transporting us to the smell of those stews over a wood fire, to the flavours of home, of
 the hearth. 
The restaurants taking part in the "Gastronomic Week" will offer us local dishes, but also
 from other autonomous regions, where the tradition of stews is a national and
 international gastronomic reference. The richness of cultures that Benidorm brings
 together with people from all over Spain will be reflected in the dishes that are a true
 reflection of our traditions.
 That is why it is important to give Benidorm's gastronomic heritage the recognition it
 deserves, because it is an added value to our tourist attraction and, consequently, a
 powerful driving force of our image as a destination at a national and international level. 
My acknowledgement to the effort made by our restaurateurs to improve every day.
 And my congratulations to ABRECA for their constant dedication to promote our
 culinary offer with a 'Gastronomic Benidorm 2024' that aims to give the best of us to the
 palates of our neighbours and all those who visit us... And who always come back. 

Click on the photo for more information and maps to each restaurant.

Gastronomic Benidorm 2024 - Days of the Spoon 

Gastronomic Benidorm 2024 - Days of the Spoon

Javier del Castillo, chairman of ABRECA 

Benidorm is in vogue and we live all year round in the destination that so many tourists
 choose to spend their holidays in a unique environment where there is always
 something new to discover.
 Music, sporting, culinary and festive events make of Benidorm itself a reason to choose
 us and not just a destination. Social media is testament to the hustle and bustle of the
 streets in terms of leisure activities and, above all, gastronomic quality and diversity.
 We are a digital tourist destination, and we are at the leading edge of showing what
 makes us different in any technological medium, but what you will never be able to
 experience without coming to our city are the homemade flavours of our traditional
 recipes.
 In Benidorm, we are proud of those simple and comforting dishes that bring you back
 home with every spoonful, and although we are moving towards digital tourism, at the
 bottom of the casseroles of our restaurants, you will always find those flavours that
 remind us of our grandmothers' stews.
 It is also important to address sustainability and ensure that these lovingly inherited
 flavours are passed on to future generations. At ABRECA, we are working to maintain
 our environment and to ensure that the gastronomic culture of the land continues to be
 passed on for generations to come.
 So, as you explore the nooks and crannies that Benidorm has in store for you, don't
 forget to stop and enjoy a hearty dish. Because in this fast-paced world, there are some
 things that should be enjoyed with a pause. We hope you enjoy our Spoon Days.

Gastronomic Benidorm 2024

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Walks in and around Benidorm

Walks in and around Benidorm - Benidorm is much more than just bars, there is something here for everyone and if you enjoy walking there are some fabulous places to enjoy a relaxing stroll, along the beach or in the marvellous local parks or if feeling more adventurous hill/mountain walking.

Benidorm Beach front walks

The obvious choice for many and here in Benidorm itself we are lucky enough to have 2 fantastic beaches that are just perfect for a stroll anytime of the day or night, both have plenty of bars to pop into for refreshments.

Levante Beach, also known as Sunrise Beach

Beaches in Benidorm

Levante Beach in Benidorm runs for almost 2km from Punta Pinet to Punta Canfali, Levante Beach is one of the best-known beaches in Europe, the beach is south facing, so enjoys the sun all day and is classed as a Blue Flag Beach.  This is the busiest beach in Benidorm.  There are hundreds of bars and restaurants along the promenade offering everything from just ice creams to live music and everything in-between.

Poniente Beach, known as Sunset Beach

At more than 3km long Poniente Beach is the longest beach in Benidorm, making it an ideal place to stroll along during the day or evening, it is usually much quieter and features a new modern promenade designed by the architect Carlos Ferrater, there are a wide selection of restaurants, bars and clubs.

Mountains and Beaches enjoy the Sierra Helada/Geleda

Follow the coast road round from Levante beach (to the North of Benidorm) and you will come across two wonderful coves, Cala Almadrava and Tio Ximo both these small coves are situated at the base of the steep cliffs of the Sierra Helada, and enjoy the stunning views. Follow the road down to Tio Ximo cove and you will see a path to the left, this leads to a lovely look out point to enjoy the views looking out to sea and over Benidorm itself. 

For a slightly longer walk just at the top of the Almadrave cove you will see another entrance to the Sierra Helada, this is a great walk with stunning scenery and leads to the Punta del Cavall watchtower. This route is about 3 km round trip, and can be done in an hour, there are a few seats to stop, rest and enjoy the views along the way.

Walk to Benidorm´s famous Cross, La Cruz.

The views from the cross (La Cruz,) are spectacular both day and night, it is well worth a visit just to see the stunning scenery across Benidorm and the surrounding area.  

It is situated at the top of the Sierra Gelada Natura reserve and stands around 438m above sea level.

There are various routes to get to The Cross from the town depending upon where you are, from somewhere such as The Flash Hotel the shortest walking route is about 2.6km and would take about 45 minutes for someone quite fit, bear in mind that it is ALL uphill. Read about the history of the cross and find maps here.

Walks in and around Benidorm

Albir to Altea or vice versa

This is another seafront walk enjoyed by many, catch the number 10 bus to either Altea or Albir and follow the coast Road.  Both Albir and Altea have lots of lovely bars and restaurants along the route. More information about Albir and Altea. From the seafront of Albir to the port at Altea is about 2.5 km and takes around half an hour.

Albir Lighthouse

The lighthouse can only be reached on foot (or bike) and the walk to it is started from the entrance to the Sierra Helada natural park. There is a large car park as well as a new visitor centre, which is open most days. To reach the natural park from the anchor monument on the seafront, take the road above it (Opp the Correos Post Office) and head uphill, following the road for around 600m. The entrance to the car park is at the top of the street.  Distance approx 4.5 km round trip, Easy/moderate terrain, Approx time 1 hour.

Walks in and around Benidorm

La Cala  - Watchtower of l'Aguilò

Take a walk to the Renaissance watchtower of l'Aguilò, situated the other side of La Cala Bay, this is actually classed as being in the municipality of Villa Joyosa.

There are two routes but the longest is the easiest and begins on the road as you head out of La Cala from the beach, the entrance is on the left, its a comfortable paths to walk with some steep climbs, so go with appropriate footwear, at the foot of the tower, the views are breath taking and there are places to rest. The walk will take approximately 90 minutes (about 1.5km), make sure you take some water with you as there is nowhere to obtain any on this walk, there are also no toilets.

From here there are various coastal paths that lead to Villa Joyosa.

The photos below were taken on 19th November 2020

Walks in and around Benidorm

Parks in Benidorm 

There are four main parks in Benidorm that are perfect for a lovely relaxing stroll.

Benidorm The Old Town

L’Aiguera Park - Known as the great centre of Benidorm.

You can find its main entrance by the Town Hall in the Old Town, to walk from top to bottom it will take you around 15-20 minutes. It’s the park that connects the old town with the new, crossing it you will come across the Julio Englasias Ampetheatre, which is used by the town to organize musical and cultural events. At the very end you will find the Benidorm Bull ring.

Note, in the main areas of the park dogs are not permitted, but up past the bullring you will find a small dog park.

Foietes Park, near the sports centre in the old town, is another green space that you will find in Benidorm. Just like l’Aigüera, in this park you will find different playgrounds, recreational areas for young and old and shady areas with tables designed for picnics. 

Adolfo Suárez leisure and recreation area and pet park. This covers an area of ​​1,460 square meters and includes a fenced dog park in which different structures have been installed so that pets can move freely, jump and run. In addition, the area is equipped with gravel and pipeclay pavements, there are plenty of picnic table and even Bio healthy exercise areas.

El Moralet Park, also known as the Forest of Foietes y Moralet - A green zone of more than one million square meters that serves as a recreation area with more than 17 kilometres of hiking trails and cycling routes that partly go over an old train tracks.

Several areas can be found with picnic tables and for the children swings, climbing frames, ziplines etc are available.

Explore the surrounding area.

Guadalest Reservoir, Embalse de Guadalest

There is lovely walk around the reservoir, on minor roads and paths The journey is about 12.7km (7.9 miles). see map below.  Find More information on Guadalest itself HERE

For the more serious hikers

ALWAYS CHECK THE WEATHER CONDITIONS BEFORE HEADING INTO THE MOUNTAINS

If climbing take plenty of time and allow yourself enough daylight hours, mountain rescues are not uncommon

Leave your detail, name, telephone number and route etc with someone before you attempt the climb.

Never go on your own.

It can also get very cold at the summit so be prepared.  Take plenty of water and food with you.

Wear the proper clothing and shoes etc.

If it becomes too difficult turn back.  SAFETY FIRST, ALWAYS.

The 7 Peaks of the Sierra Helada

Feeling fit? you can walk from the Benidorm cross to Albir. This is the most challenging walk of the Sierra Gelada natural park as the walk passes along the seven peaks between Benidorm and Albir. You can walk in either direction but remember to arrange transport at the other end as it is one way. The panoramic views are breath-taking, and well worth all the climbing up and down.

From Benidorm the walk starts at the Cross. There is then a marked pathway up and down seven peaks, before arriving in Albir at the Sierra Gelada visitor centre.  Many walkers prefer to get a lift to the Cross.

This is only recommended for people with moderately high fitness levels and full mobility.  Distance 11km one-way trip.  Moderately difficult, but worth the challenge!  Allow 4.5 hours.

Sierra Cortina, Finestrat

The Sierra Cortina is another marvellous experience – quite an easy route along the crest which gives you some of the most panoramic views of Benidorm and the other coastal resorts of the Marina Baja region.

If you head to Residencia Golf Bahia, from the roundabout, it's fairly obvious which road to take and about 100m up this residential road you will see a path that leads steeply uphill.  This path takes you straight to the high point, where there's a cairn and cross "Alto de Cortina

Photo from Benidorm Seriously Member Gerrich Schoels

Walks in and around Benidorm 

Puig Campana Mountain

There are three routes you can take: “Volta de la Serra” is the most common route to the peak, the second route “Ascension Puig Campana is a bit more complex, and the third route is the “Cami de la Cove del Roget”.

The most direct ascent is from Finestrat, starting at Font del Molí, heading towards the mountain's south face. From here, a long, steep, scree slope can be seen. It is possible (although unpleasant) to ascend the scree directly or follow the trail which runs parallel to the scree slope on the right-hand side. Both the trail and the scree slope are marked with fading red painted symbols. The trail is easy to lose in mist so only attempt this in good clear weather conditions. From the top of the scree slope, the trail turns east towards the summit. There are lots of criss-crossing paths here, which makes the route very difficult to follow.

The routes are classed as low to medium difficulty, so they are apt for all hikers and the duration of the routes vary between 4 to 6 hours depending on the route chosen.  All routes start from the Font del Moli.

Sierra Bernia Mountain

This mountain with a length of 9 km between the Algar's valley river and Mascarat's ravine, divides the Marina Alta and the Marina Baixa. In it, is the Mascarat, a huge and spectacular rocky ravine which reaches the highest point of Bernia (1126 meters) this mountain covers 1,900 hectares and the towns of Altea, Calpe, Callosa d'Ensarria, Benissa and Jalon (Xaló)

The route begins at Font del Garrofer (Altea La Vella). There is a steep path which leads up to Les Penyes ravine, from there the trail goes between abandoned crop patches which then lead to a recreational area. Continuing on you will reach the beginning of a circular trail. To walk this trail, you must go in the direction of Font Bernia, which are the ruins of an old fortress, following the trail you will arrive at Casas de Bernia, Font de Bernia and El Forat. Finally passing through the Forat, you will once again be back at the circular trail.

At the highest point (1,128 meters above sea level) you can see the entire coastline from the Cape La Nao in Javea to the port of Alicante.    On a clear day you can even see the island of Ibiza.

Length: 15,2 km (Round trip), Duration: 4h 35 min 

Marco Polo and the DownHill Bike Ride also provide guided walks, find more information HERE

What are your favourite walks, have we covered them? If not comment below.

PLACES TO VISIT COSTA BLANCA NORTH

PLACES TO VISIT, COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

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Cycling in Benidorm

It has long been our quest to provide as much information to our members as possible regarding Benidorm and the surrounding area.  We have shared our experiences from our road trips as we explored many parts of Spain beyond Benidorm.  For those experiences reserved for the visitors and very seldom tried by those of us who have made Benidorm our home, we have been guilty of leaving that to our members.  Today we decided to put some old theories to the test.  The first is that you often miss the most beautiful things right on your own doorstep.  The second was a test on the theory, "its like riding a bike".  If you have done it once you never forget it.  Armed with these two challenges Derek and I accepted an invitation from Sergio of Visit Benidorm to go cycling in Benidorm. 

Cycling in Benidorm

Benidorm actually has more then 100km of cycle paths and today we were going to explore a small portion of them, one being the beautiful  Sierra Helada/Gelada Natural Park, which is right outside our door and an area we walk our dogs every day.  This time we would do it by Bicycle.  I have to admit we did cheat a little with the use of Electric Bikes (E-bikes).  After some encouragement from the proprietor of Tao Bike and the reassurance of Sergio´s more youthful years travelling with us, one or two trial circles of the immediate area outside the shop to make sure I would not need children´s stabilizers Derek and I were ready for our adventure. 

Rather than face the deadly hills around the coast, we headed first of all to the Viewing point, EL Mirador de la Punta del Canfali in the old town.  It's true, it was just like riding a bike.  Within a few minutes our confidence was rising and peddling uphill toward the Mirador really was surprisingly easy with the assistance of electric power. 

The view from El Mirador was as spectacular as ever.  Even though this is an area we are very familiar with, and with the weather a little duller than what we normally experience in Benidorm, it is from this point Benidorm can really be experienced in all its grandeur. 

Looking to the east past Mal Pas Beach and along Poniente Beach, Benidorm´s longest Beach towards La Cala bay, we can marvel at the fabulous M shaped building the Intempo Apartments and the The Gran Bali Hotel as it stands proudly as Europe´s  tallest hotel. 

To the West, Levante Beach looks equally as inviting and the view stretches right across to the Punta del Cavall look out tower.  Sergio suggested that should be our next destination.  To a walker that would have seemed quite daunting as it stands around 5 km away.  But if you really want to explore, I suggest you consider cycling in Benidorm.  

Downhill through the Old Town and along Levante beach seemed a breeze with our now enhanced cycling skills and we again began to ascend up into the Sierra Helada Natural Park, this entire area took on a completely new feel. 

Under Electric power, the hills disappeared and the freedom of rolling around some of Benidorm´s jagged but stunning coastline liberates the entire experience when the sun is not zapping your energy as you dread each uphill slope. 

This is an area not often visited by the British, but is an area of outstanding natural beauty which demonstrates to perfection that Benidorm really has something for everyone.  You could spend hours here just soaking up the sun on the beaches of Tio Ximo and Almadrava and enjoying the stunning scenery, in peace and tranquility, two words not often used to describe Benidorm.

 

After snapping a few pictures from the lookout tower, it was approaching lunch time.  Where else would be better to finish off our tourist prospective of Benidorm than Tapas Alley.

La Taperia Aurrera tapas bar was suggested as the place to dine, situated in the heart of Tapas Alley and with a mouth watering selection of reasonably priced Tapas and friendly staff, we relaxed and enjoyed some of the best tapas we have ever found in Benidorm accompanied by the ever popular Pan y Alli Oli.  A favourite throughout Spain, not just in Benidorm.  

In closing, we have both enjoyed yet another experience in Benidorm.  Derek is already 60 years of age and I am not all that far behind him.  If cycling in Benidorm has sounded a little daunting in the past, I suggest you do not let age put you off,  It is a relaxing way to see some of Benidorm´s most glorious places.  Its true, it is just like riding a bike even after 30 odd years.

Many thanks to the VisitBenidorm team and Tao Bikes for a wonderful day out.

E-Bikes can also be hired from Marco Polo and Benidorm Trips

Find more information on things to do in Benidorm HERE.  There are also guided bike trips available, more information can be found here.

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