What to do in Torrevieja Costa Blanca?

Natural Attractions

Beaches

1. La Mata Beach: This extensive golden-sand beach, spanning over 2 kilometers, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With calm waters, it's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shoreline.

2. Los Locos Beach: A popular choice for families, Los Locos Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere, fine sand, and crystal-clear waters. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a lively spot for spending the day.

3. El Cura Beach: Located in the heart of Torrevieja, El Cura Beach is an urban beach with a lively promenade filled with cafes, ice cream parlors, and souvenir shops. Its Blue Flag status ensures excellent facilities and high-quality waters for swimming.

4. Playa de los Náufragos: This award-winning beach, known for its clean sands and calm waters, is an ideal spot for families and water sports enthusiasts. Beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and kayaking are just a few activities to enjoy here.

Salt Lakes and Natural Parks

1. Laguna de la Mata: The impressive salt lake of La Mata is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an excellent location for birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush pine forests and aromatic plants, creating a serene environment for relaxation.

2. Laguna de Torrevieja: Just south of La Mata lies Laguna de Torrevieja, another stunning salt lake known for its vibrant pink hue caused by algae and salt-loving microorganisms. This unique lake is a popular spot for photography and is surrounded by walking and cycling paths.

3. Parque Natural de las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja: This protected natural park, encompassing both La Mata and Torrevieja salt lakes, offers visitors the chance to explore diverse ecosystems and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and cycling. The park features several well-marked trails, observation points, and information centers, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for nature lovers.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

Water Sports

1. Scuba diving: Torrevieja's clear waters and abundant marine life make it an excellent destination for scuba diving. Several dive centers offer PADI courses, guided dives, and equipment rental for both beginners and experienced divers.

2. Kayaking: Explore Torrevieja's stunning coastline and hidden coves by kayaking. Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to discover the area's natural beauty while getting a fun workout.

3. Windsurfing: With its favorable wind conditions, Torrevieja is a popular spot for windsurfing. Several schools and rental shops cater to all skill levels, from beginners looking to learn the basics to experienced windsurfers seeking a thrilling ride.

Golfing

Torrevieja and the surrounding Costa Blanca region boast a plethora of top-notch golf courses, including:

• Villamartin Golf Club
• Las Ramblas Golf Club
• Campoamor Golf Club
• Las Colinas Golf & Country Club
• La Finca Golf & Spa Resort
• La Marquesa Golf

Hiking and Cycling

Torrevieja offers various scenic routes and trails for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Some suggested options include:

• Parque Natural de las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja: Explore the park's diverse ecosystems, with well-marked trails suitable for all fitness levels.
• La Mata to Guardamar Coastal Path: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along this beautiful coastal path, boasting stunning sea views and pristine beaches.
• Vía Verde del Maigmó: A converted railway track, this trail takes you through picturesque landscapes, tunnels, and viaducts, offering a unique cycling or hiking experience.
• Sierra Escalona Natural Park: Discover the park's diverse flora and fauna while hiking or mountain biking through its rugged terrain and lush pine forests.

Family-Friendly Attractions

• Aquopolis Torrevieja Water Park: A perfect destination for a fun-filled day with the family, Aquopolis Torrevieja offers a wide range of water attractions, including thrilling slides, wave pools, and a dedicated children's area. For those seeking relaxation, there's a lazy river and sun loungers to unwind in the Spanish sun.
• Flamingo Aquapark: This family-friendly water park boasts a variety of slides and pools suitable for all ages. With a dedicated children's area, relaxation zones, and on-site eateries, Flamingo Aquapark guarantees a memorable day for the entire family.
• Habaneras Shopping Centre: A popular shopping destination in Torrevieja, the Habaneras Shopping Centre features a wide selection of local and international brands, along with restaurants, cafes, and a cinema. The shopping center often hosts events and activities for children, making it an enjoyable destination for the whole family.
• Torrevieja Marina: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque marina, admiring the moored boats and yachts while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The marina area also offers boat rentals, sightseeing cruises, and a variety of dining options. The nearby fairground attractions and playgrounds make it an enjoyable spot for families to spend an afternoon or evening.

Dining and Nightlife

Traditional Spanish Cuisine

1. Popular local dishes to try:

   • Paella: A classic Spanish rice dish typically made with seafood, chicken, or rabbit, and flavored with saffron.
   • Tapas: A variety of small, flavorful dishes served as appetizers or snacks, such as patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and croquetas.
   • Arroz a banda: A traditional Torrevieja dish made with rice cooked in fish stock, often served with alioli sauce.
   • Caldero: A fish and rice dish, traditionally cooked in a cauldron, and typical of the Murcia and Alicante regions.

2. Suggested restaurants:

   • Restaurante Barlovento
   • La Ponderosa
   • La Encarnación
   • Restaurante Las Columnas
   • Mesón El Huertano

International Cuisine Torrevieja offers a diverse dining scene with options from around the globe, such as Italian, Chinese, Indian, and British cuisine. Some popular international restaurants include:

• Ruccola Restaurant (Italian)
• Beijing House (Chinese)
• The Curry Tree (Indian)
• The Royal Oak Pub (British)

Bars and Nightclubs Torrevieja's nightlife scene is lively and varied, with a mix of bars, pubs, and nightclubs to suit different preferences. Some popular venues include:

• Velice Discoteca: A trendy nightclub featuring live DJ sets, themed events, and an outdoor terrace.
• Kraken Rock Bar: A lively rock bar with live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere.
• Sinatra's Premium: An upscale cocktail bar with a stylish setting, perfect for a sophisticated night out.
• Paddy's Point: A popular Irish pub offering live sports, live music, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Festivals and Events

• Habaneras International Choral Contest: Held annually in July, this prestigious choral competition brings together choirs from around the world to perform traditional habanera songs and polyphonic compositions, celebrating Torrevieja's rich musical heritage.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): A deeply rooted religious and cultural event, Semana Santa takes place in the week leading up to Easter. The city comes alive with processions, floats, and traditional costumes as residents commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Feria de Mayo (May Fair): This vibrant fair, held annually in May, showcases the Andalusian culture with flamenco performances, traditional costumes, and decorated casetas. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, music, and dancing late into the night.
• Noche de San Juan (St. John's Night): Celebrated on June 23rd, Noche de San Juan marks the beginning of summer with bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties. Locals and visitors alike gather on the beaches of Torrevieja to enjoy music, food, and the magical atmosphere of this special night.

Conclusion

Torrevieja, the coastal gem of Costa Blanca, offers an impressive variety of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. From its beautiful beaches, natural parks, and historical landmarks to its lively dining and nightlife scene, there's something for everyone in this charming city. We encourage you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Torrevieja and make unforgettable memories as you enjoy your time in this sun-soaked Spanish paradise.