Back to Menu       VALENCIA-COSTA BLANCA       The Costa Blanca, with its eclectic mix of miles of marvellous sandy beaches, tranquil inland villages, spectacular mountain scenery and choices of various types of resorts, is one of the most cosmopolitan coastlines in Europe. The fabulous coastline, which stretches from Valencia in the north to Murcia in the south has over 100 km of beaches many of which have won the prestigious "blue flag" award in their time. The region boasts a wide variety of sporting facilities, two of the best known naturally being golf and sailing, both of which are well catered for. The whole area is steeped in history, something which becomes evident in the many fiestas, or festivals, which number over 400 and are held throughout the year. April sees the festival of San Jordi (St George) in Alcoi, the "capital" of the Moors and Christians. The landing of the Moorish ships takes place at the beach of La Vila Joiosa in July, and there are midnight parades in Villena in September, all linked to the same theme. Undoubtedly the most well know festival is that of the bonfires of Sant Joan (St John) which happen all along the coast from June, with the largest and most spectacular being in and around Alicante itself. Mediterranean cuisine is always worth investigating, and the local variations of the region include a rice dish called "arros a banda", a fish dish on the coast yet inland flavoured instead with rabbit and snails. Other rice dishes are also popular, such as "arroz con costra", baked with egg crust and, of course, the ubiquitous paella makes an appearance all over the region.