Benidorm Low Emission Zones

Benidorm Low Emission Zones (ZBE)

🚗 Benidorms Low Emission Zones (LEZ) – Everything You Need to Know - Since January 1st 2025, Benidorm has implemented a Low Emission Zones (LEZ) restricting vehicle access to its city centre, seafront promenades, and main avenues. This measure aims to reduce pollution and create a cleaner, safer environment for residents and visitors.

🔍 What are Low Emission Zones (LEZ)?

A Low Emission Zone is an area that limits polluting traffic to improve air quality and promote sustainable travel. Benidorm joins other major Spanish cities in adopting this environmentally-friendly initiative.

📍 Where is the LEZ in Benidorm?

Benidorm’s LEZ covers around 75 hectares and is divided into:

  • Central Zone – historic old town, pedestrian streets, local shops, and businesses

  • Levante Zone – Levante seafront promenade and surrounding streets

  • Poniente Zone – Poniente seafront promenade and nearby residential areas

🚦 Access is controlled by cameras, sensors, and clear signage.

Benidorms Low Emission Zones map

⚠️ Who Needs a Permit to Enter Benidorm Low Emission Zones?

All vehicles require a permit.  Regardless of fuel type or emission label, all vehicles must request access to enter any LEZ areas. 

Including:

  • Electric and hybrid cars

  • Vehicles with ECO or ZERO emission labels

 The Only Exception: Registered Residents

Only Benidorm residents registered in the city are allowed to access the Central Zone without applying for a permit — and only if the vehicle is registered under their name.

🚗 Which vehicles can access Benidorm’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?

Vehicles belonging to residents of the LEZ
Urban public transport (buses, emergency services, etc.)
Vehicles with special authorization, such as delivery vehicles, mobility services, or those with pre-approved permits.

All other vehicles, including electric or hybrid, must apply for a permit in advance to enter any LEZ area.

📝 How to Apply for a Permit

    1. Go to the website: ZBE - Benidorm

    2. Register: Click the person icon at the top right corner to create an account.

    3. Request your permit:

      • Go to “Applications” (Solicitudes).

      • Select “Request Permit” (Solicitar Permiso).

      • Choose “Special Permit” (Permiso Especial).

    4. Check your status: Once submitted, track your application under “My Permits” (Mis Permisos) and await confirmation before entering the zone.

Tip: Apply in advance to avoid fines or access issues during your stay.

💡 Common Questions

Q: I’m a tourist – can I drive into Benidorm’s LEZ?
✅ Yes, but only with a permit. Without it, you risk a fine. Many visitors prefer parking outside the LEZ and exploring the city on foot or by public transport.

Q: What if my car is electric or hybrid?
⚠️
Unlike some other cities, Benidorm requires ALL vehicles to apply for a permit, regardless of emission status.

Q: What are the penalties for driving without a permit?
💶 Fines will apply after the grace period ends in June 2025. These are issued automatically via traffic cameras.

Will it be possible to access with a vehicle without an environmental badge?

✅ Yes. If you own a vehicle without an environmental badge but live or are registered within the Low Emission Zone, you can still enter. You will be granted an annual deferral, which must be renewed each year at Benidorm City Town Hall.

Remember: Without this deferral or permit, vehicles without an environmental badge cannot access the LEZ.

👉 Learn more about Benidorm Low Emission Zones:

Visit the official site at zbe.benidorm.org for up-to-date information and permit applications.

Disclaimer:
This information is provided by Benidorm Town Hall. Benidorm Seriously accepts no responsibility for its accuracy or for any changes that may occur. Always check official sources before travelling or making plans.

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Have you applied for your LEZ (Low Emission Zone) permit as a holidaymaker or resident?

If you have, please share your experience in the comments below 👇 – your tips and insights could really help others planning to drive in Benidorm.

High-Speed Trains from Alicante

High-Speed Trains from Alicante

🚄 High-Speed Trains from Alicante – Why Travel by AVE.  Spain’s high-speed trains offer one of the best ways to explore the country efficiently and comfortably.

Here’s everything you need to know about their advantages and onboard service quality, especially from Alicante:

DID YOU KNOW?

AVE stands for Alta Velocidad Española, which means Spanish High Speed, the initials are also a play on the Spanish word ave, meaning bird – and you’ll be on your way.

How do I get to Alicante train station from Benidorm?

Tram to Luceros and then transfer to the station or take a direct ALSA bus from Benidorm bus station to Alicante, or contact Beniconnect - Alitren Connect Service.

Alicante Terminal

The main high-speed train station in Alicante is called Alicante-Terminal (also known simply as Alicante Station). It is located in the city center, near the Luceros tram stop, making it easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or on foot if you’re staying nearby.

It serves as the main hub for AVE, and other long-distance and regional trains, connecting Alicante with Madrid, Valencia, and other cities.

Platforms to use at Alicante Station -  1-6, platforms are numbered 1 to 6 from right to left

Luggage control:

To access platforms 1-6, you must go through luggage screening with X-ray scanners.  This process is quick and easy—there are no metal detectors like at airports. Security staff may use a handheld metal detector occasionally, but it’s very rare.

✅ Top Advantages

1. Speed and Time Efficiency

  • Reach Madrid in ~2h20min–2h30min

  • Barcelona in ~4h20min direct with Euromed.

  • Much faster door-to-door than driving or flying when airport transfers are included.

2. City Centre to City Centre Convenience

  • Train stations are located centrally, so you arrive directly in the heart of your destination without costly or long transfers

3. Comfort and Space

  • Spacious reclining seats with generous legroom.

  • Large windows for scenic views and a calmer journey than planes or buses.

  • Power sockets available on most services to keep devices charged.

4. Reliability

  • High punctuality (often over 90%). Less disruption from weather compared to flights.

5. Eco-Friendly Travel

  • Trains produce far less CO₂ per passenger compared to flying or driving, making them the greener choice.

6. Great Value Fares

  • Low-cost operators like Avlo (Renfe) and Ouigo offer tickets from €7–€19 if booked early, often cheaper than budget flights.

7. Flexible Luggage Policy

  • No strict weight or liquid restrictions. Perfect for holiday shopping, gifts, or sports gear.

🍽️ Food and Drink

  • AVE, Ouigo, Iryo, Euromed, Alvia: onboard café-bars with hot meals, sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and drinks.

  • Avlo: vending machines only (as it’s a low-cost service).

🧳 Accessibility and Ease

  • Wheelchair spaces, adapted toilets, and priority boarding on all operators.

🎧 Noise Levels

  • Generally quiet with smooth travel ideal for working, reading, or relaxing.

High-Speed Trains from Alicante - Onboard Service – What to Expect?

Operator Service Highlights
AVE (Renfe) Reclining seats, power sockets, café-bar, Wi-Fi (PlayRenfe), two classes (Turista / Preferente), quiet coaches on some routes. Clean and professional service.
Avlo (Renfe low-cost) Comfortable seats with power sockets, Wi-Fi, vending machines instead of café-bar. Excellent value for basic high-speed travel.
Ouigo French TGV trains with modern interiors, café-bar, power sockets, Wi-Fi, great for families. Competitive fares.
Iryo Italian Frecciarossa trains with premium leather seats, multiple classes, high-quality catering, quiet coaches, excellent onboard Wi-Fi, and a premium feel throughout.
Euromed Similar to AVE, serving coastal routes. Spacious seats, café-bar, power sockets, comfortable for longer journeys.
Alvia Combines high-speed and regional tracks, offers café-bar, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seats though slightly slower than AVE on some routes.

🚄 High-Speed Train FAQs

Where do high-speed trains from Alicante go?

AVE trains from Alicante connect to Madrid, Albacete, Cuenca, and other major cities. You can reach Madrid in as little as 2 hours and 10 minutes.

How fast are the trains?

These AVE services can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), significantly cutting travel time compared to buses or driving.

What is the service like onboard?

The trains are modern, clean, and comfortable, with spacious seating, luggage racks, air conditioning, onboard toilets, and a café-bar carriage for snacks and drinks.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, or busy seasons, to secure the best prices and seat selection.

If I caught the first train from Alicante to Madrid and the last train back how much time would I have in Madrid?

🚄 First train Alicante → Madrid

  • Departure (Alicante): 06:00

  • Arrival (Madrid Puerta de Atocha): 08:30
    (Approximate based on standard early AVE schedules)

🚄 Last train Madrid → Alicante

  • Departure (Madrid Puerta de Atocha): 21:05

  • Arrival (Alicante): 23:34

Time in Madrid

From 08:30 arrival to 21:05 departure:

Total sightseeing time:
12 hours 35 minutes

Based on July 2025 train times.

💡 Should You Pay Extra?

Choose Standard/Básico if:

  • You want the lowest fare and don’t mind a bit less space.

  • You don’t need flexibility or included food.

  • Good value if traveling alone, short trips, or on a tight budget.

Choose Confort (Elige) if: 

  • You value extra legroom and a quieter coach.

  • You want some flexibility for changes or cancellations.

  • You don’t mind paying a small extra for comfort.

For short rides, the benefit of food and lounge may be minimal; Standard or Elige often suffice.

Go for Prémium if:.

  • You want a fully flexible ticket with free changes/refunds.

  • You appreciate lounge access and free onboard meals/drinks.

  • The highest comfort, service, and peace-of-mind matters.

🧭 Conclusion

If you’re traveling for business, on a tight schedule, or prefer comfort and flexibility, Confort (1st class) is worth it. For budget-conscious trips, Standard (2nd class) still offers great amenities at a lower cost.

Is there WiFi on the train?

Most AVE services offer free WiFi, though speed and coverage may vary along the route.

Can I take large luggage?

Passengers are allowed up to three items of luggage per person with a combined maximum weight of 25kg, fitting within Renfe’s standard luggage dimensions.

Are there discounts for seniors or children?

Yes. Renfe offers discounts for children, youth, seniors, and families. Check eligibility when booking to save money.

Are assistance or guide dogs allowed?

🦮 Yes, they can travel on all trains without restrictions or extra cost. Certification is required.

Can I take my pet on the AVE train?

✅ Yes, small pets up to 10kg are allowed in a carrier (max size 60×35×35cm). Large dogs (up to 40kg) are permitted on selected AVE routes with prior booking, muzzle, lead, and paperwork. Fees apply.

Can I take my pet on Avlo or Ouigo?

🐾 Avlo (Renfe’s low-cost service) allows small pets up to 10kg in carriers for a fee.
🐾 Ouigo policies vary – check directly before booking as assistance dogs are always permitted but small pets may not be accepted on all services.

How much does it cost to take my pet?

💶 For small pets:

  • Renfe AVE/Avlo: approx. €10

  • Iryo: fee varies by ticket type

  • Large dogs (Renfe/Iryo): approx. €35–€40

  • Guide dogs: always travel free.

Do I need any documents for my pet?

📄 Yes. Bring:

  • Pet passport or health card

  • Microchip certificate

  • Vaccination records (especially rabies)

  • For large dogs: liability insurance and declaration of good behaviour.

Can my pet travel outside its carrier?

🐶 Only large dogs (10–40kg) with a special ticket can travel on a lead with a muzzle. Small pets must remain in their carrier at all times.

What is the carrier size limit?

📏 The maximum carrier size is 60cm x 35cm x 35cm, and it must be leak-proof and well ventilated.

Do I need to arrive early for check-in?

⏰ For large dogs, arrive at least 40 minutes before departure for paperwork checks. For small pets in carriers, arrive with normal boarding time but allow extra time if needed.

Is there a pet limit per passenger?

1️⃣ Yes. Only one pet per passenger is allowed.

Will my pet be comfortable on the train?

🚄 High-speed trains are spacious, quiet, air-conditioned, and smooth, making them generally stress-free for pets if prepared properly.

Where can I book my pet’s ticket?

🔗 Book directly on Renfe, Iryo, or Avlo websites. For large dogs, contact customer service to ensure availability and complete paperwork.

Can my pet sit on the seat next to me?

❌ No. Pets must remain on your lap or the floor in their carrier, or for large dogs, remain seated on the floor next to you with provided covers.

Tip

Always double-check current operator policies before travel as rules can change.

Do trains run every day?

Yes, there are multiple departures daily, including weekends and public holidays, though times vary, so check timetables when planning your journey.

🔎 Planning Your Trip?

Whether heading to Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, or beyond, high-speed trains offer the best combination of speed, comfort, and value in Spain.

🏆 Summary – Why Choose High-Speed Trains from Alicante?

✔️ Fastest and most efficient door-to-door travel
✔️ Comfortable and spacious seats
✔️ Affordable fares, especially when booked in advance
✔️ Eco-friendly travel choice
✔️ Reliable, clean, and professional service

💬 Have you travelled on the AVE high-speed trains from Alicante? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!

Road Trip 2024 day 13

Road Trip 2024 day 13 - Albarracin and Teruel

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracin to Teruel 332km

After last nights stay in Lleida and thinking we would come straight home, but not wanting to cut our holiday short by a day and with such a disappointing end, we scoured the booking sites for somewhere to stay tonight and found what looked suitable in Terul, but before going there we are going to visit a place that has been on my list for quite a few years, Albarracin, so its on with the journey for what will be out last nights stay before heading back to Benidorm.

A pretty uneventful journey to Albarracin with just the odd coffee stop along the way, we first found out where our accommodation was situated and headed to explore Albarracin, which was about 30 km away.

Albarracín, is often regarded as one of Spain's most beautiful villages, and is a small medieval town in the province of Teruel, within the autonomous community of Aragón. Nestled in the Sierra de Albarracín mountains, this enchanting town captivates visitors with its well-preserved historical architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and stunning natural surroundings. It’s a destination that feels frozen in time, offering a unique glimpse into Spain’s past.

Albarracín was an important strategic location during the medieval period:

Islamic Influence: The town was part of the Taifa of Albarracín during the Moorish rule in Spain.

Christian Reconquest: It became a key defensive stronghold following its capture by Christian forces in the 12th century.

The town’s architecture reflects this blend of cultures, with Moorish fortifications and Christian influences coexisting harmoniously.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 

The Old Town - This is the area that everyone, including us visits and it is a labyrinth of narrow, twisting streets lined with traditional houses many with pinkish-hued facades, wooden balconies and ornate iron details.

The streets are irregular, with small plazas and archways, creating a magical, medieval feel.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

No cars are allowed in the historic center, which is why it never comes up when we are searching for accommodation, as one of the few requirements we have is, that where ever we stay must have parking facilities, however this does make this area perfect for exploring on foot, and there are photogenic corners and hidden alleyways at every turn.

Albarracin Walls (Las Murallas de Albarracin) - These dramatic medieval wall that date back to the 10th century, rise steeply from the hills that surround the town.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

Casa Jarreta Azagra -  This 17th century building is the only blue house in the old city, and is available to stay as the interior has been turned into a modern 3 bedroom accommodation, this is another well photographed house here.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

Alcazar of Albarracin - this is a Moorish fortress built in the 10th century and is perched high on a hill for defence reasons.

Cathedral of Albarracin (Catedral del Salvador) - This is a 16th century cathedral with a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles and the bell tower dominates the towns skyline.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

The cathedral is part of the Episcopal Palace which houses a small museum showcasing religious art.

Julianeta House - A historic house with a quirky, distinctive, irregular shape with walls that appear to lean inward, following the natural contours of the narrow street it stands on. This is one of the towns most famous and certainly most photographed buildings. 

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

The town’s main square, known as the  known as the Plaza Mayor, is surrounded by arcaded buildings and offers stunning views of the Guadalaviar River below.

A prominent feature of the square, is the Ayuntamiento (town hall) this is a traditional 16th-century building with an arcaded façade.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

The Plaza Mayor is surrounded by historic buildings with stone walls, wooden balconies, and terracotta roofs. Many of these buildings have been preserved in their original medieval style.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

Albarracín is famous for its traditional craftsmanship, including wrought ironwork and wooden furniture, locally made textiles and ceramics are also popular souvenirs, but on our visit there was only one shop open, luckily I was able to buy a fridge magnet for my collection, which has grown vastly during this road trip.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 

Albarracín is a real gem in Spain, offering a mix of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and cultural richness that makes it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking something truly unique.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

The surrounding mountains offer countless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring nature, not that we did any of that, but the autumnal colours were spectacular.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Albarracín

Teruel,  - A city in Aragón, Spain, is famous for its Mudejar architecture, medieval charm, and rich cultural history. It is often referred to as the "City of Mudejar" Mudejar is a blend of Islamic and Christian architecture) Teruel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has to be one of Spain's most underrated cities as it is a real hidden gem with unique architecture, relaxing squares and a lovely medieval centre.

Finding a central car park was easy and we found ourselves just a couple minutes walk from the Plaza del Torico which is the main square in Teruel, a bustling and historic focal point of the city. It's named after its center-piece, the Torico Fountain, which features a small bronze bull ("torico" means "little bull") perched atop a tall column. Despite its modest size, the bull is a beloved symbol of the city.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

This square is surrounded by early 20th-century Modernist buildings, adding a unique charm to the historic setting.  The main buildings are Casa de la Madrileña (the blue building in the photo above), and Casa Ferrán.  These houses feature decorative ironwork balconies, intricate façades, and vibrant colours.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The square is also lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while soaking up the atmosphere and even the rubbish bins are smartly dressed here in Teruel.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The square serves as a gateway to many of Teruel's main attractions, including the nearby San Pedro Church, Mudejar towers, and the Cathedral of Santa María de Mediavilla.

Teruel Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Mediavilla): Known for its exquisite Mudejar ceiling, the cathedral is an architectural highlight.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

Torre de El Salvador: An iconic example of Mudejar art, this tower offers panoramic views of the city and showcases intricate Islamic-inspired patterns.

Its exterior is adorned with intricate brick patterns and ceramic tiles, creating geometric motifs typical of Islamic art. These patterns symbolize infinity and spirituality.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The tower was built in the 14th century as a bell tower and watchtower for the adjacent Church of El Salvador.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 

Torre de San Martín: Another UNESCO-listed masterpiece, this tower features stunning brickwork and ceramic details.  The tower was constructed in the 14th century, around 1316, as a bell tower for the Church of San Martín.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The Torre de San Martín follows the typical Mudejar design of a square tower with two concentric walls. The staircase is housed between these walls.  The tower’s facade features intricate geometric patterns made of brickwork and glazed ceramic tiles. The motifs include diamonds, zigzags, and interlaced arches, symbols commonly found in Islamic art.  Windows: Its windows are framed by pointed arches, adding to the overall elegance of the design.

Escalinata del Óvalo (Oval Staircase) A monumental staircase built between 1920 and 1921 by architect José Torán de la Rad, blending neo-Mudejar style with practicality, it was designed to solve a practical problem, linking the railway station at the base of the hill with the historic city center at the top.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The staircase has 120 steps and features multiple levels and terraces. and is flanked by elaborate balustrades and decorated with reliefs, arches, and ceramic tiles.

The fountain here is an elegant and integral part of the staircase, enhancing its charm and historical ambiance and makes a great spot for photographers.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The Town Hall of Teruel is not just an architectural gem but also a symbol of the city's civic heritage and cultural vitality. Its historical charm, combined with its role as a living institution, makes it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Teruel.

Aqueduct of Los Arcos - This is  is a magnificent example of Renaissance engineering and is one of the most significant historic landmarks in the city.  The aqueduct was constructed between 1537 and 1558 under the direction of French architect Pierres Vedel. Its purpose was to address the city's growing demand for water and to replace the older water supply system.  It also served as a bridge for pedestrians.

Road Trip 2024 day 13 Teruel

The aqueduct stretches for approximately 150 meters and reaches a height of about 25 meters at its tallest point.

If you love seeing something different around every corner then Tereul is definitely a place you need to visit and we will certainly be returning on a future road trip, as we certainly did not see everything in this wonderful city on just a short visit.

Road trip 2024 night 13 accommodation - Hostal el secreto, Situated 4km from Tereul 48.60 with FREE parking.

We had a slight problem getting into this accommodation, although we had provided our arrival time when we arrived there was a note on the door asking us to phone the owner to gain access, we tried this and the phone was put down on us, tried again and were told our key was waiting for us in the bar/cafe next door, why this instruction was not just placed on the note on the door we don't know, but that would have made much more sense.

Although this hostal was situated in a quite busy industrial area, the whole building was very clean, and our room very spacious, with full bathroom a desk with 2 chairs which is unusual and comfy beds and even heating which would necessary in this area during the winter months.

 

The cafe next door was a great addition and was very popular, we popped downstairs for a drink as it was our last night and Derek would not be driving, we also had breakfast here before leaving on the final leg of this years road trip, back to Benidorm.

Never be afraid to stay in hostals, as they are just as good as many hotels we have stayed in, they just don't generally offer the same amount of services ie lifts, pools etc, just don't get them mixed up with a HOSTEL which are more geared to the younger generation with shared bunk rooms and toilets.  At our age one of our must requirements wherever we book is a private bathroom.

This was a pleasant last nights stay and would make a great base to explore the area more if we were ever back in this area.

Tomorrow it is time to head home to Benidorm.

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Road Trip 2024 Day 14

Road Trip 2024 Day 14 - Tereul to Benidorm

Road Trip 2024 Day 14 - The Journey back to Benidorm from Teruel via Chelva and Taverns de la Valldigna 351km

Its been another amazing road trip and we have driven in 5 different countries, Spain, France, Monaco, Italy and Andorra, but its now time to head home back to Benidorm.

After enjoying our standard Spanish breakfast of Tostada con tomate y queso and a coffee, it was time to get on the road, as usual the Sat Nav was set to avoid all motorways and tolls and a lot of the journey was on the CV-35 also known as the Autovía del Turia, which took us over some wonderful mountains with stunning scenery.

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

We had a brief stop in Chelva located in the province of Valencia, this was a lovely place which has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the Iberians, Romans, and Moors. This cultural blend is evident in its architecture and layout. The town is divided into distinct historic quarters:

Arab Quarter (Arrabal): Reflects the town's Moorish past with narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses.

Jewish Quarter (Azoque): A testimony to its once-thriving Jewish community, featuring unique structures and a fascinating layout.

Christian Quarter: Developed later, showcasing more modern architectural influences, which is where we found ourselves in a lovely square where the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles.

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

The church is a prominent landmark, showcasing Baroque design, and serves as a focal point for religious and cultural activities in Chelva.

This region of Valencia has a vibrant tradition of textile arts, including crochet and the streets were adorned with crochet streamers, made by local residents.

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

The Casa Consistorial de Chelva, or Chelva Town Hall, is a historic building located in the heart of Chelva, situated in the Plaza Mayor, this serves as the administrative center for the municipality.

Historically, the site of the Casa Consistorial holds significant importance. The main gate of the old castle was located in what is now the Plaza Mayor, where the town hall stands today. Over time, the castle underwent various transformations, including its conversion into a palace and later into an inn in the 19th century. Currently, the town hall and other buildings occupy this historic site, incorporating remnants of the original castle structure.

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

This is an area which could be worth more exploration on a future road trip.

Road Trip 2024 Day 14

Our final stop of our journey was lunch at Tavernes de la Valldigna, situated approximately 54 kilometers south of Valencia.   It is the largest town in the Valldigna valley, a horseshoe-shaped area bordered by mountains to the West and the Mediterranean Sea to the East.

The town itself sits is renowned for its excellent beaches and scenic mountain routes, again another area to explore at a later date, possibly during the summer months as its close to one of our other favourite places Cullera.  But for now its on with the journey back home to Benidorm, and thats another amazing road trip completed.  We still really enjoy these as everyday is like the start of a new holiday and you never know what exciting places you will find along the way.

Just shortly after our visit (15th October) on 29th October Tavernes de la Valldigna faced challenges following a DANA (an Isolated Depression at High Levels producing large amounts of rain in a short period of time), this caused significant flooding and damage. The La Goleta beach area was particularly affected, and local authorities are actively coordinating aid and restoration efforts for the community.

And its now back to Benidorm and the end of this years Road Trip.  Next years may be slightly different, as we may re-visit our favourite places from previous years, spending 2 or 3 days in each, really getting to know them properly, rather than just quick one nights visits.

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Road Trip 2024

Total cost of 14 nights' accommodation - 775.49€ (including tourist tax in some areas). Average coast per night = 55.39€ 

Additional car parking expenses - 17€, most places we stayed offered on street, or private FREE parking. 

Total Diesel cost - in the region of 200€

Best accommodation -  Night 5 Hôtel des Moulins - 61.62€ including city tax, FREE parking onsite.

Worst accommodation -Day 7 B&B L'Avelan - La Trinité 80.23€ including city tax.  The room itself was lovely but being in someone elses house we felt trapped.

Favourite place visited - Cannes, day 7, we both loved this place and would like to visit again in better weather

Most disappointing  - Saint-Tropez day 6

Best surprise along the wayDay 3 The Empúries Roman City Ruins at L'Escala and day 6 the medieval village of Le Castellet 

What we found different this year - Most other road trips we have taken has been during the summer months (apart from last year), what did we find were the pros and cons of a Road Trip in October:

Pros - Accommodation was easier to find and most with free parking.

Accommodation was much cheaper, we got some really good deals.

Less Traffic on the roads. 

Easier to park in the towns and cities.

Much more comfortable walking around in the cooler daytime temperatures.

Cons:

Because we covered a significant distance within a limited timeframe, we were unable to spend extended periods in any one location. As a result, while we visited many places, we didn’t have the opportunity to fully explore them.

Not enough daylight hours to do the amount of sightseeing we normally do.

Unpredictible weather, we had a lot more rain than normal especially in France. 

Chilly at night.

Some towns/Cities were so quiet they had no atmosphere.

Would we do a road trip again this time of year?  yes, but the lack of daylight hours was still a problem, with us arriving at a lot of our destinations in darkness.  As we are now finding the heat too much during the peek summer months the next trip will be taken during May, June, or September.  Watch this space.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12

Road trip 2024 Day 12 - Loupia to Andorra and Lleida

Road trip 2024 Day 12 - Loupia, Andorra and Lleida 294km

Sunday 13th October and this was our final day in France, and as we had already driven in Spain, France, Monaco and Italy, we thought why not add another country to the list and drive through Andorra before heading back over the border into Spain

The French Pyrenees are a stunning mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain, stretching approximately 430 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean (Bay of Biscay) to the Mediterranean Sea, we drove over the Catalan Pyrenees stretch, which is the easternmost section of the Pyrenees mountain range and the route provided us with some stunning natural landscapes along the way.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Catalan Pyrenees

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Catalan Pyrenees

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Catalan Pyrenees

Road Trip 2024 Day 12 - Andorra

Driving from France into Andorra was not difficult, yes there is a border control and they do pull the occasional car over to check but we drove through without any problems.  This is now our second visit to Andorra, as we spent 3 nights here back in 2019 on our 2nd road trip

Andorra is a small, landlocked principality nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. Despite its size, Andorra is a popular destination known for its tax-free shopping, world-class ski resorts, and breath-taking mountain scenery even this time of year, before the first snowfall.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12

Andorra is considered a micronation. In fact, it is considered the 6th smallest state in Europe and the 16th in the world.

Some of the hairpin roads as you enter Andorra can be a bit daunting, but these are very popular with cyclists.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Andorra

Many of these ski slopes are used by mountain bikers out of ski season which typically runs from late November to early April, depending on weather conditions and snow levels. 

And of course the architecture is very different here, in recent decades, Andorra has embraced modernity, incorporating contemporary designs and materials while maintaining harmony with its natural surroundings, using a lot of wood, stone and glass with quite bold and innovative buildings often inspired by the surrounding mountains.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Andorra

Andorra la Vella is the capital and largest city of Andorra, serving as its economic, cultural, and political hub. It’s located in a high valley at an elevation of 1,023 meters, making it Europe’s highest capital city.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Andorra

It is renowned for its tax-free status, the city offers a wide range of goods, including electronics, fashion, perfumes, and luxury items, our short visit here was to fill the car up with cheap diesel, buy some cigarettes and a new camera, being a Sunday, the shops were only open until 14:00hrs, so we did not have much time to shop around but having been here before we knew exactly where to park to get to the main high street, which saved us some time.

We also enjoyed lunch here of hot chilli burgers in one of the many restaurants available in the town centre.

The official language spoken here is Catalan, although Spanish, French, and Portuguese are also widely spoken, so we found it difficult to remember what language to use.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12, Andorra

Feed and watered and shopped out it was time to continue on our journey back over the Spanish boarder and head to our overnight accommodation which we had booked in Lleida. 

A lovely coffee stop along the way, with the back drop of stunning scenery and more importantly coffee at Spanish prices again.

Our next stop was Lleida -  Located in the Catalonia region of Spain, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and strategic location on the banks of the Segre River. It’s one of Catalonia's oldest cities, blending Roman, medieval, and modern influences. As the capital of the province of Lleida, it serves as a gateway to the Pyrenees.

We arrived quite late and it was dark so headed straight to our hotel.  After checking in we decided go out and explore, but for the first time ever in Spain we both felt incredibly uncomfortable and unsafe walking around, we did find an area that felt slightly safer and stopped for a glass of wine and a few croquetas but could not get back to the hotel quick enough, I did not even take the camera out, which shows you how unsafe we felt.

Road Trip 2024 Day 12

To be quit honest we really did not like this city, not sure if it was due to just picking the wrong area to stay in so we may be willing to give it a second chance is in this area again on a future road trip it again if in this area on another road trip.

Road Trip 2024 - Night 12 Accommodation - Ramon Berenguer IV - 47.22,  including city tax, parking was an additional 8€

The Ramón Berenguer is located in the commercial and financial centre of Lleida, opposite the train station and the AVE (Spanish high-speed train network) terminal. The hotel was located on Lleida's Rambla de Ferrán.

We had booked a double room, which was quite spacious and had everything we needed for a one nights stay, there was a cafe outside and even this did not feel safe at night.

We were thankful that the car was parked in a secure garage attached to the hotel.

The whole area did not have a nice atmosphere at all, and although the hotel was more than adequate, we could not wait to get away in the morning.

Planning our next nights stay we could not really find anywhere suitable, but did not want to what had been a fantastic holiday on a sour note, looked again before leaving and found somewhere just outside Teruel.

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Benidorm Seriously are a Benidorm based advice service for Tourists and Ex Pats alike. We rely totally on support from local businesses to provide the service. We urge you to give them your support in return.

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Benidorm Seriously are a Benidorm based advice service for Tourists and Ex Pats alike. We rely totally on support from local businesses to provide the service. We urge you to give them your support in return.

No assistance is given from the Benidorm Tourist Board

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