'The Costa Blanca is ideal for countryside exploration all year round. Travel only a short distance inland, and the bustle of the resorts is left far behind. You find yourself surrounded by market gardens, orchards and orange groves, while the dark rugged silhouettes of the sierras beckon you close. Here you can put aside the stress and hassle of modern living. Wild flowers from the humble daisy to the most exotic orchid abound; the air is filled with the scent of fragrant herbs; birdsong drifts along on the breeze, and mountain peaks dominate the skyline. The weather-beaten faces of villagers in the fields break into smiles as you pass by. All these images combine to create an ambience you will find irresistible.
The car tours lead through fertile valleys smothered in blossom or sweet-scented fruit to delightful inland villages. Windmills, waterfalls and 'snow wells' feature among the picnic settings. But the rugged silhouettes of the area's many sierras dominate this landscape an irresistable attraction for walkers
Best months for walking. The best time for walking is March to May and September/October, but regular visitors enjoy walks throughout the winter as well.
Where to stay for walking: If you will be relying on public transport, Benidorm is your best option, but if you plan to hire a car you can stay in Denia or any of the coastal resorts. It's also possible to stay in the mountains, but your choice of accommodation will then be limited to pensiones and hostales or to private homes offering bed and breakfast - ask in local bars for information on what is available.
5 car tours, 50 long and short walks, 32 picnic suggestions
Plans of Benidorm, Alicante, Denia
136 pages + touring map
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