All about Oliva: A Hidden Gem on the Costa Blanca 🏖️

Oliva is a wonderful small town on the Costa Blanca, famous for its stunning white sandy beaches, mountain landscapes, and historic charm. Located in the Region of Valencia, it offers visitors a perfect mix of nature, history, and authentic Spanish culture.

📍 Where is Oliva?

Oliva sits in the southeast of Valencia province within the Safor region, bordering Alicante.

It’s just 62km from Benidorm 🚗, best reached by car (about an hour) or by bus 🚌, which takes around 3 hours and costs between €8 and €12.

🏞️ Explore Oliva’s Three Diverse Landscapes

1️⃣ The Mountains ⛰️

Oliva’s mountain areas are protected natural parks, with peaks such as:

• Pla del Frares (464m)

• Covatelles (365m)

• Tossal Gros (293m)

• Cavall Bernat (206m)

• Penya de l'Àguila (170m)

Other notable areas include Pla de Carrixar (249m) with rainwater depressions nurturing wetland plants 🌿, and Lloma d'Enmig (238m).

2️⃣ The Central Area 🌾

Between the mountains and coast lies a zone of marshes and swamps, rich in biodiversity and agricultural life.

3️⃣ The Coast 🌊

Oliva boasts 8.8km of fine sandy beaches, with parts integrated into the Marjal de Pego-Oliva Natural Park, creating an idyllic coastal environment.

🗺️ Things to Do in Oliva

🏘️ Explore the Historic Town

• Walk through Vila Condal 🏰, discovering remains of towers and ancient walls.

• Wander the Moorish Raval 🕌 with narrow streets like La Hoz, Gerreria, and Pinet.

• Visit Tosalet del Doiz viewpoint 🌄 for breathtaking panoramas.

⛪ Admire Historic Temples

• Parish Church of San Roque with its baroque chapel.

• Parish Church of the Assumption of Our Lady ✝️, featuring a crypt turned exhibition space.

• Hermitage of San Vicente Ferrer (18th century), where the saint preached.

• L’Enginy 🏭, an old sugar mill worth seeing.

🏺 Museu Arqueológic d'Oliva

Housed in a 15th-century building, this museum showcases Oliva and Safor’s history, with artefacts from Iberian, Roman, Medieval, and Islamic periods.

🕒 Opening hours:

• Oct-May: Tue-Sat 10:00-13:30 & 16:00-19:00, Sun 11:00-13:30

• Jun-Sep: Tue-Sat 10:00-13:30 & 17:00-20:00, Sun 11:00-13:30

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🏯 Visit Santa Ana Castle

This 12th-century Islamic fortress, though partially ruined, offers spectacular views of Oliva, including the iconic blue domes of Santa María and San Roque churches. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest 🏆 in 2002.

🌳 Nature and Beaches 

Marjal de Pego-Oliva Natural Park 🦆

A paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and cyclists. Discover wetlands, springs (‘ullals’), rice fields, herons, ducks, turtles, and even water snakes.

💧 Font Salada

Within the natural park lies Font Salada, a thermal spring (21-23°C) with mineral-rich salty waters believed to have healing properties for the skin. Easily accessed near C. Guillem De Castro 21.

🏖️ Top Beaches in Oliva

🌅 Terranova-Burguera

From Piles to Oliva’s port, this fine sandy beach features a freshwater spring called El Tou or El Clotal 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Pau-Pi

The most popular beach, with Blue Flag and quality certificates, full services, play areas, and a lively promenade lined with restaurants 🍽️ and ice cream parlours.

🌞 Aigua Blanca

A quiet naturist beach with golden sand and beach bars in summer.

Rabdells

Surrounded by dunes 🌾, this tranquil beach is 1km long, with nearby campsites

Aigua Morta

A popular summer spot with fine golden sand, near San Fernando urbanisation

Les Deveses

At Oliva’s southern end bordering Dénia, this peaceful beach with fine sand is perfect for relaxation.

🍽️ Eating Out in Oliva

Eating out in Oliva is a real treat for food lovers. The town is home to a variety of traditional restaurants, tapas bars, and beachfront chiringuitos, where you can savour authentic regional dishes.

Don’t miss the chance to try “Fideuà”, a local specialty similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice, often prepared with fresh seafood.

Other Valencian favourites include “Esgarraet” (roasted red peppers with salted cod) and “Arroz al Horno” (oven-baked rice with pork and chickpeas).

Many restaurants also serve freshly caught fish 🐟, grilled meats, and homemade desserts such as “Arnadí”, a sweet pumpkin and almond cake typical of Safor.

Whether dining in the historic old town or by the sea, Oliva’s gastronomy will immerse you in the flavours of traditional Valencian cuisine.

Find more information on places to visit here.

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All About Rojales

Rojales, situated in the La Vega Baja region, is just 102 km from Benidorm and epitomises a quintessential Spanish agricultural village. The scenic River Segura meanders through its heart, and its famous traditional cave dwellings showcase the region’s rich history.

Nestled inland from the sun-kissed coastal stretch of Guardamar del Segura, on the southern Costa Blanca, Rojales offers the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and coastal vibrance.

Residential Areas

Rojales extends beyond its quaint town centre, encompassing several sought-after residential developments popular with many ex-pats who enjoy the area’s peaceful yet connected lifestyle.

Shopping & Dining

In the heart of Rojales, you’ll find:

• A vibrant array of shops

• Several top-notch supermarkets

• An eclectic selection of restaurants, tapas bars, cosy cafes, and inviting pubs, including authentic English and Irish establishments

• Several banks conveniently situated within the town centre

Weekly Market

Thursday mornings come alive with the Rojales market beside the river. Locals and visitors flock here for fresh produce and to seek out irresistible bargains in a bustling atmosphere.

Nightlife

For nightlife, head to the lively strip of discos near Los Palacios. Join locals on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights as they party late into the night.

Leisure

The River Segura provides a perfect setting for leisurely evening walks, mingling with locals who cherish the warm summer nights outdoors.

Festivals

Rojales hosts wonderful festivals such as:

• Festival of Nations (Early May)

• San Isidro Pilgrimage (Mid May)

• Nuestra Señora del Rosario (October)

These celebrations are great opportunities to try local dishes like arroz cocido con bolitas or sweets such as almojábenas and toñas.

Places to Visit in Rojales

🏛 Municipal Archaeological-Paleontological Museum

Located in the old Town Hall at C / Plaza de España, 1, this museum offers:

• A journey through time showcasing the evolution of the territory and Rojales’ population

• Paleontological zone: fossils and marine mammal remains

• Archaeological zone: cultural development of Rojales

🕘 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 15:00

🌉 Rojales Bridge, Water Wheel, and Dam

These historic structures along the Segura River were built in different centuries:

• Dam (weir): 17th century

• Bridge: 18th century

• Water wheel: 19th century

They played crucial roles in regulating irrigation and connecting both sides of Rojales, historically prone to flooding.

🐚 La Casa de las Conchas (Shell House)

Be mesmerised by this unique house adorned with over 700,000 shells collected by owner Manuel over two decades. Today, the house is under the care of Manuel's son, José Manuel, who graciously welcomes visitors to experience this amazing masterpiece first-hand.

📍 Location: Carrer Vilatona, 03170 Rojales
🕘 Open daily: 10:00 – 15:00
💶 Admission: 5€ per person
🚗 Parking: Available along the street

🏚 Rodeo Caves

Dating back to the 18th century, these caves were excavated by Murcian miners and served as homes until the early 20th century.

Today, they are artisan studios and workshops, open Monday to Friday, 10:00 – 15:00, free of charge.

📍 Location: Cuevas del Rodeo, 4, 18, 03170 Rojales

Special Event: On the first Sunday of each month, 10:30 – 15:00, explore the craft market, painting demos, art workshops, and live music.

🌾 Rojales Windmill

Built in the 18th century and restored in 1998, this impressive windmill stands over 10 meters high and is located on an elevated hill in Ladrillar Park to catch the wind.

Inside the windmill:

• Ground floor (silo): Now houses a kitchen and staircase

• First floor (chamber): Contains flour cleaning equipment

• Second floor: Wheat cleaning area and remaining machinery

🌻 Huerta Museum

The Huerta Museum is an eco-museum complex located in the old Hacienda de Llanos, also known as Hacienda de D. Florencio.

Covering over 30,000 m², this working museum showcases:

• Traditional farming tools

• Horse equipment

• Transport vehicles

• The cereal cycle

• Household goods donated by residents

📍 Location: Ctra. CV-920 (Rojales-Guardamar), Km. 18.5
🕘 Open: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 15:00
🌐 GPS: 38°06'14.4"N 0°42'59.8"W | 38.104009, -0.716600

🌳 Nearby Parks to Visit

1. El Recorral Park – Rojales
   📍 C. Lugar Sector, 297, 275, 03170 Ciudad Quesada
   Plenty of parking available.

2. Parque Reina Sofia – Guardamar del Segura
   📍 Avenida dels Pins, 03140 Guardamar del Segura

3. Parque del Molino del Agua (Water Mill Park) – La Mata, Torrevieja
   🚗 Best parking on Calle Morera, 1, Torrevieja

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✨ Enjoy your time exploring Rojales! If you discover any other exciting places to visit during your trip, please share them in the comments below – your recommendations could inspire other visitors.

Cullera is a coastal town located in the Ribera Baja region in the province of Valencia, Spain. It's situated about 40 kilometres south of the city of Valencia, and 100km North of Benidorm making it easily accessible for day trips.

Cullera is situated on the banks of the Júcar River, which irrigates the entire municipality through a historic irrigation system that dates back to the times of Muslim rule. 

Cullera is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and natural landscapes, making it a popular tourist destination.  The historical parts of the city are to the south whilst the tourist district points to the sea in the east.

Here are some key attractions of Cullera:

Castle of Cullera (Castillo de Cullera): Situated atop one of the hills of Muntanya les Raboses, also known as Cullera Mountain, the Cullera Castle commands a height of approximately 100 meters. Offering an unparalleled vantage point, the castle affords visitors a breath-taking panorama of the Júcar river mouth and the entire Cullera coastline. On clear days, the silhouette of Montgó mountain in the province of Alicante can be discerned to the South. 

Originally constructed by the Córdoba state in the 9th century, the fortress served as a strategic stronghold for controlling natural resources, communication routes, and borders. Comprising the citadel and two albacaras (fortified enclosures), it provided shelter for troops, cavalry, livestock, and the local population during times of siege.

A network of towers, including the Torre de la Reina Mora or Santa Ana, Torre Miranda, Torre del Racó de San Antonio, Torre Desmochada, and Torre Octagonal, once linked the sections of walls encircling the Castle. Today, visitors can explore this walled complex, beginning their journey from the Torre de la Reina Mora or Santa Ana and following a path tracing the ancient perimeter.

Over the centuries, Cullera Castle has undergone numerous renovations, reconstructions, and reforms, bearing witness to significant historical events from the Middle Ages to the Carlist Wars. Designated as an Asset of Cultural Interest, it ranks among the most visited monuments following its restoration and enhancement.

Cullera, province of Valencia

During summer nights, the castle comes alive with a diverse array of activities, including theatre performances, magic shows, classical music concerts, exhibitions, and escape rooms. Traditional Valencian dance and music performances further enrich the cultural offerings at this historic site.

Inside the castle, visitors can delve into the rich history of Cullera and the fortress itself at the Municipal Museum of History and Archeology, which forms part of the Cullera Museum Network. Additionally, exhibitions and audio-visual presentations offer insights into the castle's storied past.

Adjacent to the fortress stands the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Castle, home to religious artworks of immense value, including those dedicated to the Patroness of Cullera, the Virgin of the Incarnation.

Open from 10:00 to 17:00

Admission Fee 3€

Note: some areas of the castle can be quite steep and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip.

Santa Marta Chapel:  The Santa Marta Chapel. Dating back to the 14th century,  is situated in a picturesque natural setting offering breath-taking views of the surrounding area. While only remnants of the original structure remain today, the journey to the chapel is well worth it for the stunning vistas of the sea and mountains along the pathway. It presents an excellent opportunity for a brief hiking excursion, allowing visitors to appreciate both the historical significance of the chapel and the natural beauty of the landscape.

Lighthouse (Faro de Cullera): The Cullera Lighthouse is another iconic landmark in the town. While the lighthouse itself isn't accessible to visitors due to security reasons, it still offers breathtaking views of spectacular sunrises and sunsets, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the area surrounding the lighthouse is ideal for leisurely strolls and hiking adventures, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the scenic beauty of the coastline.

Cullera Market Gardens: The Municipal Market of Cullera, nestled in Plaza de la Virgen, the Municipal Market of Cullera showcases striking modernist architecture with a touch of Valencian ecclesiastical flair. Serving as the bustling hub of the area, it's a charming destination where visitors can procure fresh food items while marvelling at its architectural beauty. Additionally, the market hosts cultural events in its Auditorium and Multipurpose Hall, adding to its allure as a vibrant community centre.

The Mercado Gardens also hold a hidden piece of history beneath its surface - the Civil War Air Raid Shelter. Constructed during the Spanish Civil War in response to the frequent bombings threatening Cullera and its residents, this shelter comprises two galleries situated beneath the rear naves of the Municipal Market, which now house the Auditorium and the Multipurpose Room.

These galleries represent one of the best-preserved examples of Civil War shelters in the entire Valencian Community, offering a glimpse into the past and the challenges faced by those living through the conflict.

The Museum – Refugio de Cullera offers guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the shelter's historical significance and the context of the Civil War.

To access the shelters, visitors can find the entrance adjacent to each of the rear naves of the market gardens, specifically located next to the Municipal Auditorium and next to the Multipurpose Hall. The address is Plaza de la Virgen, s/n.

The Cullera Rice Museum: Housed within the renovated Hermitage of the Saints of the Stone, San Abdón, and San Senén, revered patron saints of crop protection. Situated atop a hill overlooking expansive rice fields and the Albufera Natural Park, this historic building, originally erected in the 13th century and later expanded in the 17th century, offers a unique setting to explore the heritage of rice cultivation in the region.

The original structure, characterized by an elongated design with a pitched roof and cobblestone flooring, was later supplemented by a modern hermitage. Over time, these two buildings were integrated, with the older section serving as the hermit's dwelling.

Within the museum, visitors can delve into the origins and traditional processes of rice cultivation, deeply intertwined with the Valencian landscape. The museum space, housed within the hermit's abode, showcases a range of exhibits including old photographs, documents, and an ethnological collection of tools and attire related to the historic practices of rice farming. These artifacts offer a captivating glimpse into the bygone era of rice cultivation and its significance in the region's cultural heritage.

The permanent exhibition within the Cullera Rice Museum provides insight into the cultivation and production of rice, highlighting its profound influence on local gastronomy. Through interactive displays and informative exhibits, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and enduring legacy of rice cultivation in Cullera and beyond. 

Cullera, province of Valencia

Ctra. Nazaret – Oliva (ctra. del Saler). Next to the Aquópolis water park.

The Dragut Cave, also known as the Pirate Museum of Cullera:  Commemorates the infamous raid on Cullera by the Turkish pirate Dragut in 1550, a significant event during the era of rampant piracy in the 16th century. Dragut, a lieutenant of the notorious Barbarossa, led a surprise attack on the city, catching its inhabitants off guard and seizing valuable goods and hostages.

Legend has it that within the confines of this cave, located in the district of Faro de Cullera on the captivating Island of Thoughts at Cape Cullera, Dragut conducted negotiations for ransom in exchange for the release of hostages, effectively depopulating the area due to continuous threats.

Today, the Dragut Cave stands as the sole pirate cave-museum in Spain, offering a unique glimpse into the perilous life of Mediterranean pirates during the 16th century. Visitors are greeted by a diorama depicting Cullera in 1550, setting the stage for an immersive journey through the history of piracy, religious conflicts, the Inquisition, and advancements in navigation systems of the time.

The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts including old nautical instruments, artillery pieces, historical maps, clothing, and coins. Notably, visitors can explore a reproduction of a brig, a swift and formidable corsair galley used for raiding.

Guided tours featuring audiovisual presentations provide insight into the turbulent era of piracy, captivating both children and adults alike. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the scenic surroundings of Cape Cullera, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Open from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Admission prices are €5 for adults and €3 for children aged 4 to 14 years old. Optional tourist train rides are available from June to September, enhancing the overall experience of exploring this unique historical site located on Plaza Dr. Fleming, s/n (Cullera Lighthouse).

Natural Park of Cullera: This protected natural area encompasses diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, dunes, and forests. It's an excellent spot for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the region's biodiversity.

l'Estany lagoon:  Nestled in the southern part of the municipal area, with its mouth opening into the sea.  A peaceful and quiet place where you can relax in the middle of nature, walk along the shores of the lake, go hiking or enjoy a bike ride, the lagoon is also a popular fishing spot.

Head towards the south of the municipality along the Nazaret – Oliva highway, towards Brosquil – Tavernes de la Valldigna CV605, until the “Entrada de l' Estudiantent”.
Also from Avda. Marenyet. Passing by the Torre del Mareny. Next along Av del Estany to the lake.

Cullera, province of Valencia Aquopolis Water Park, Cullera:  Water attractions for all tastes, nestled seamlessly into the surrounding mountains, the park boasts a picturesque natural setting, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. 

Aquopolis opened in 1985 on the outskirts of Cullera, the water park stands as a landmark attraction in the region and holds the distinction of being one of the earliest of its kind established in the country. Designed primarily for families with children and teenagers in mind, it offers a total of 11 attractions, ranging from thrilling slides to inviting pools. The most daring will enjoy attractions like Black Hole or Calypso and those who need a little relaxation can relax in the Wave Pool or the Amazon River.

Open from late June to early September, located on Carretera de Nazaret-Oliva km 33.

Dining out: Cullera is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes, particularly paella, which is a traditional Valencian rice dish. Visitors can sample fresh seafood and other regional specialties at the town's numerous restaurants and tapas bars.

Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Cullera hosts various cultural and recreational events, including music festivals, traditional fiestas, and religious celebrations. One of the most famous events is the annual Moors and Christians festival, which commemorates the town's historical battles against piracy.

Cullera, province of Valencia Water sports: With its prime location on the coast, Cullera offers ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as windsurfing, sailing, jet skiing, and kayaking are popular among locals and tourists alike.

BEACHES: Cullera has a total of 11 beaches ranging from family-friendly beaches with full amenities, quiet coves that are perfect for snorkelling, as well as beaches offering water sports and even a naturist beach.

Raco Beach (Platja del Racó): Located at the northernmost part of Cullera, Raco Beach is a wide sandy beach with calm waters, making it perfect for families with children. It offers full amenities including lifeguard services, showers, and beach bars.

Sant Antoni Beach (Platja de Sant Antoni): Just south of Raco Beach, Sant Antoni Beach is another family-friendly beach known for its fine golden sand and shallow waters. It's equipped with facilities such as showers, beach bars, and sunbed rentals.

Los Olivos Beach (Platja dels Olivos): This beach is characterized by its tranquil atmosphere and natural surroundings. It's less crowded compared to other beaches in Cullera, making it ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation. Snorkelling enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the underwater life here.

El Faro Beach (Platja del Faro): El Faro Beach is situated near the Cullera Lighthouse and offers beautiful views of the coastline. It's a relatively quiet beach with calm waters, suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Cap Blanc Beach (Platja de Cap Blanc): Known for its rugged cliffs and clear waters, Cap Blanc Beach is popular among nature lovers and snorkelers. It's surrounded by cliffs, providing a picturesque backdrop for beachgoers.

Marenyet Beach (Platja del Marenyet): Marenyet Beach is a wide sandy beach with moderate waves, making it suitable for water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding. It's equipped with facilities including showers, beach bars, and rental services.

San Antonio Beach (Platja de Sant Antoni): Not to be confused with Sant Antoni Beach mentioned earlier, San Antonio Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and lively beach bars. It's a popular spot for young crowds and offers various water sports activities.

Brothers Beach (Platja dels Germans): Brothers Beach is a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs, offering a peaceful environment for visitors. It's a great spot for snorkelling and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.

Cullera, province of Valencia

Racó del Mar Beach (Platja del Racó del Mar): This beach is characterized by its pristine waters and soft golden sand. It's relatively quiet compared to other beaches in Cullera, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility.

El Dosel Beach (Platja del Dosel): El Dosel Beach is known for its wide stretch of sand and calm waters, making it suitable for families with children. It's equipped with amenities such as showers, beach bars, and sunbed rentals. In Cullera, the naturist beach is Playa del Dosel. This beach is known for its tolerant attitude towards nudity, and it's where naturists often gather. It's located towards the southern end of Cullera's coastline. While it's not officially designated as a naturist beach, it's commonly acknowledged as such by locals and visitors alike.

Escollera Beach (Platja de l'Escollera): Located at the southernmost tip of Cullera, Escollera Beach is a small secluded cove surrounded by rocks. It's a peaceful spot for swimming and sunbathing away from the crowds.

Overall, Cullera is a charming coastal destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a memorable experience in the Valencia region.

Find lots more wonderful places to visit here.

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Gardens to visit - Costa Blanca.  The Costa Blanca is known for its beautiful beaches and coastal landscapes and while it might not be as famous for gardens as some other regions, there are still a few beautiful gardens that are well worth a visit:

Jardín Huerto del Cura, National Artistic Garden - 49 Porta de la Morera Street, Elx/Elche

The Huerto del Cura Garden, tucked away in the heart of Elche city centre, was declared a National Artistic Garden in 1943 and encompasses a vast area of 12,000 square meters.

Also known as The Priest's Garden, this is one of the most famous gardens in the area, known for its impressive palm collection, including the Imperial Palm.  This magnificent palm tree is almost 200 years old, and is a natural rarity that consists of a parent trunk from which a series of symmetrical trunks emerge in the form of a chandelier

The other highlights of this peaceful garden include a variety of tropical plants, birds, peacocks, ponds, and water features. Your visit then continues in the small garden museum where you can discover all the history and charm of Elche's secret haven.

Visitors can delight in the impressive collections of palms and cacti sourced from diverse corners of the globe, showcasing numerous species acclimatized to the local weather. Alongside the palm trees, the Huerto del Cura hosts other quintessential crops of the Spanish Mediterranean, including lemon trees, orange trees, pomegranates, carob trees, and jujube trees. Additionally, the garden boasts subtropical specimens, forming an enchanting compilation of flora from the most exotic locales.

Entrance prices - Adults 6.50€, Senior 65+ 4.50€, Students 4.50€, Children 5 - 15 3.50€, Disabled 3.50€, Disabled 3.50€

Opening hours: