Alicante: Europe’s Most Underrated Winter Weekend Break
If you are needing a relaxing weekend away, for some sun and relaxation, then Alicante in Spain is a perfect choice. We arrived mid December and this was perfect to enjoy some Christmas festivities, shopping and night lights.
Accommodation can be cheap if you book an apartment and split it between a few of you. Trying to travel as a solo female worked out a bit more expensive, so I invited some girl friends to make it perfectly affordable. We focused on staying in the Old Town, which is safer, convenient and reasonably priced, although we did find it noisy till quite late into the night, so I would recommend finding an apartment off the main roads.
Being Winter there are not as many water sports and boat excursions on offer as there are in the warmer months. The beaches are also free of any sunbeds, so if you are looking to plant yourself on the beach be prepared to be self sufficient, however there are plenty of benches and seating around the harbour, esplanade and beach to be able to easily find a seat to sun yourself.
Getting out early in the morning was my favourite time of the day. The sun is rising over the sea, the sky is filled with colour, many people are out for a walk, a swim or a run along the esplanade, and on weekends the cafe’s along the beach front set up from 8am, which is perfect to enjoy a morning coffee or breakfast.
Exploring Alicante was easy as everything is in walking distance, so there is no need to hire a car. Additionally the C6 bus picks you up from the airport and takes you directly into the city. We got off at Puerta del Mar bus stop, which is close to the port, and is also close to the old town. Just follow the city bus signs at the airport to the second floor, outside departures.
Highlights & Easy-going Sights
Santa Bárbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara)
The castle is perched above the city on Mount Benacantil, and offers panoramic views over Alicante, the Mediterranean sea and the mountainous landscape inland. It can be reached easily from a lift on the beach side if you are looking for a scenic and relaxed stroll. It does take a couple of hours and I would recommend doing this in the morning. The lift does get busier later in the day and the ques can grow, which means you will have to wait for a length of time. It can also be especially beautiful at sunset.
El Barrio de Santa Cruz + Old Town (Old Quarter)
Enjoy some spontaneous exploring around these narrow winding streets, with their colourful balconies, filled with plant pots and flowers, white-washed houses and many charming squares. It is full of character and perfect for a relaxed stroll. There are also nice historic buildings, churches, small cafes and bars to enjoy. We enjoyed their world class nativity scene in the town square, which was beautifully lit with lights for the festive season.
Beach & Promenade stroll — Playa del Postiguet and the seafront / harbour area
The beach area and promenade is perfect for a relaxed walk by the sea, and maybe grab a nice drink or a coffee. Exploring the centre also has many delights, like finding Mushroom street (El Carrer dels Bolets) or little shops selling nuts, which you can sample, still warm and fresh from the kitchen.
Food, Wine & Relaxing Evenings
The city has many tapas and bars, which serves local cuisine, offering outdoor seating, which overlooks the port or sea. There are also many great restaurants, however I do suggest you book in advance. We tried to find a nice steak restaurant however many were already fully reserved indoors, however you can still get outdoor seating if you are happy to dress up warm in the evening.
Hiking & Scenic Outdoor Adventures
Alicante has lots of beautiful trails and natural parks within easy reach of the city — perfect for scenic hikes with great views:
Popular Hiking Spots
- Serra Grossa – Great local trail rising above the city with panoramic views. It is located close to Alicante and ideal for running cycling or walking. It is a 3.7 mile loop and includes rocky terrain, so scrambing may be required. Trail shoes recommended. All trails offers 4 routes of differing lengths.
- Mont Benacantil – The hill that holds Santa Bárbara Castle; you can start from the city and enjoy panormaic views as you walk up to the castle, which is free to visit.
- Parc Natural de la Serra Gelada – Stunning natural park near Benidorm with clifftop paths and beautiful sea panoramas. It offers at least 4 different trails of varying lengths on All trails. This is perfect if you are looking for a day trip from Alicante.
Tips: Winter temperatures are usually mild, so long hikes are quite comfortable — just bring layers, water, and good shoes.