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9 and 12 October on the Costa Blanca: 2026 Holidays

09 10 - 2026

9 and 12 October: Two holidays that reveal another side of the Costa BlancaCoffee in a village square, lunch with family and a walk by the sea: October offers a chance to get to know the Costa Blanca beyond its summer image. Two nearby public holidays provide a useful introduction to the region’s culture and everyday life.9 October: Valencian Community DayThe Día de la Comunitat Valenciana, also known as Nou d’Octubre, is a regional public holiday throughout the Valencian Community. This includes Alicante province and therefore the Costa Blanca, as well as Valencia and Castellón.It commemorates King Jaume I’s entry into the city of Valencia on 9 October 1238. Today, the occasion highlights Valencian history, culture, language and identity. Understanding it is one small step towards...

Healthcare in Spain: Doctors, Hospitals and Modern Medical Care on the Costa Blanca

11 07 - 2026

How good is healthcare in Spain?This is one of the most common questions asked by people planning to relocate to the Costa Blanca, purchase a holiday home, retire in Spain, or simply spend extended periods enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.The good news is that Spain has one of Europe's most respected healthcare systems. In particular, the Costa Blanca offers excellent medical infrastructure, combining modern public and private hospitals, highly qualified specialists, and an international approach that caters to patients from around the world.In this article, you'll discover how the Spanish healthcare system works, why the Costa Blanca has become a preferred destination for international residents, and why access to high-quality healthcare is one of the region's greatest...

5. Experience a Safari in Your Own Car – Safari Aitana in Penàguila, Costa Blanca

22 06 - 2026

Safari Aitana in Penàguila is one of the most unique attractions in the Province of Alicante. Nestled in a spectacular mountain landscape, the park offers an experience that is still quite rare in Spain: the opportunity to observe wild animals up close from the comfort of your own car. Imagine a giraffe crossing the road directly in front of your vehicle while zebras graze peacefully just a few metres away. This special combination of nature, adventure, and wildlife makes Safari Aitana an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.However, Safari Aitana is much more than just a wildlife park. It reveals a side of the region that many visitors do not expect. While most people associate the Costa Blanca with beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque coastal towns, the...

4. Fonts de l’Algar – The Natural Paradise of the Costa Blanca

06 06 - 2026

When I have visitors on the Costa Blanca or when I recommend day trips, there is one place that almost always makes it onto the list: the Fonts de l’Algar near Callosa d’en Sarrià. Even after so many years living between the coast and the inland mountains, I still don’t lose that feeling that this place is something special. It is no longer an unknown hidden gem – but it still manages to impress me every single time I stand there and hear the sound of the water rushing through the rocks.Where are the Fonts de l’Algar?The Fonts de l’Algar are located in the municipality of Callosa d’en Sarrià, in the province of Alicante. The natural area lies about 15 kilometres inland from the coast, surrounded by the mountains of the Marina Baixa region.The Algar River originates in the nearby...

3. Terra Mítica Benidorm – The Ultimate Family Adventure on the Costa Blanca

06 06 - 2026

Anyone spending their holiday on the Costa Blanca and looking for a day full of excitement, fun, and adventure should definitely put Terra Mítica in Benidorm on their list. This popular theme park is one of the largest in Spain and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world every year. Spectacular roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, impressive live shows, and a fascinating journey through the great civilizations of antiquity make Terra Mítica one of the most popular attractions in the region.The History of Terra MíticaTerra Mítica opened its doors in 2000 with the goal of creating a theme park that combines entertainment with history and culture. Unlike many traditional amusement parks, Terra Mítica is based on the great civilizations of the Mediterranean world....

2. DinoPark Algar – A Journey into the World of Dinosaurs on the Costa Blanca

06 06 - 2026

Discover One of the Most Exciting Family Attractions on the Costa BlancaWhen people think about the Costa Blanca, they usually picture beautiful beaches, charming Mediterranean villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes. However, just a short drive from Altea and Benidorm, visitors can discover a truly unique attraction: DinoPark Algar.This fascinating theme park offers families, dinosaur enthusiasts, and nature lovers the opportunity to travel back millions of years and come face-to-face with some of the most impressive creatures ever to walk the Earth.Located in the municipality of Callosa d'en Sarrià, close to the famous Algar Waterfalls, DinoPark Algar combines entertainment, education, and nature in a spectacular setting surrounded by exotic plants, cacti, and Mediterranean...

The ultimate family guide: The 20 best places to visit on the Northern Costa Blanca

24 05 - 2026

1Welcome to our big blog series: Family adventures on the northern Costa BlancaA family holiday on the northern Costa Blanca is so much more than just sun, sand and paella. Anyone exploring the Alicante region and its northern treasures will soon realise that a new adventure awaits around every bend. In this new blog series, we’ll take you to the 20 most exciting, child-friendly and impressive destinations in the region. We’ll take a look behind the scenes at the major theme parks, climb historic castles and immerse ourselves in cool natural wonders. Pack your sun cream and your sense of adventure – let’s go!💡How to use this guide: Simply click on the headings for each destination to go straight to the detailed articles containing all the information on prices, how to get there and my...

1. The crown jewel: Castillo de Santa Bárbara (Alicante)

24 05 - 2026

The guardian of Alicante: the Castillo de Santa BárbaraThe famous Castillo de Santa Bárbara rises majestically on the 166-metre-high Benacantil hill and has watched over the city of Alicante for centuries. Anyone gazing at the city’s skyline will immediately spot the fortress’s imposing walls rising high above the sparkling Mediterranean. From up here, a spectacular panoramic view unfolds over Alicante, the harbour, the city beach and the endless coastline. For many visitors, the castle is one of the most beautiful sights on the entire Costa Blanca – and quite rightly so! But the Castillo de Santa Bárbara is far more than just an old castle. It uniquely combines history, adventure, the Mediterranean way of life and breathtaking views. Families in particular love this special place,...

Discover this coastal paradise: the most beautiful beaches and coves of the Northern Costa Blanca

21 05 - 2026

When people think of the Costa Blanca, they often picture miles of sandy beaches, palm-lined promenades and Spain’s Mediterranean way of life. But as soon as you travel along the northern coast between Dénia and Benidorm, the landscape changes noticeably. That is exactly what makes the Costa Blanca North so special to me.Here, impressive mountain landscapes meet hidden coves with turquoise waters, green pine forests stretch right up to the cliffs, and small fishing villages alternate with lively coastal towns. The coastline feels wilder, more unspoilt and far more varied than many people expect.From fine sandy beaches for families to spectacular natural coves for snorkelling and small Mediterranean villages with a laid-back atmosphere, there really is something for everyone here.In...

Property Transfer Tax in Valencia 2026: Save on Your Property Purchase from June

27 04 - 2026

Anyone planning to buy a property on the Costa Blanca or in the city of Valencia should keep a close eye on the calendar. As of June 1, 2026, significant changes to the Property Transfer Tax (ITP – Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales) will come into effect in the Valencian Community. For many buyers, this means savings of several thousand euros.The Most Important Innovation: Reduction of the ITP Tax RateThe regional government has decided on relief for the real estate market. While a flat rate of 10% previously applied to most existing properties, this will be reduced from June 2026.New standard rate: The tax rate drops from 10% to 9%.Luxury properties: For properties with a value of over €1,000,000, an increased rate of 11% continues to apply.AJD reduction: The tax on legal...

Holiday Rentals in the Valencian Community: Tax Strategies and Pitfalls for Non-Residents 2026

15 03 - 2026

The Valencian Community – from the picturesque Costa Blanca to the vibrant metropolis of Valencia – remains a magnet for real estate investors worldwide. But the dream of returns through holiday rentals is closely tied to Spanish bureaucracy. For non-residents, understanding the tax rules is essential to avoid falling into the trap of double taxation or paying unnecessary levies.1. The Tax System: IRNR and the Owner's OriginIn Spain, property owners whose tax residence is abroad are subject to Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR). There is a strict division here:EU Citizens (e.g., Germany, Austria)Tax rate: 19% on net profit.Privilege: They can deduct all costs directly related to the rental for tax purposes. This includes cleaning, proportional utility costs, mortgage interest, and building...

Easter on the Northern Costa Blanca: A feast for the senses (2026)

15 03 - 2026

Celebrating Easter on the Costa BlancaWhen the scent of incense drifts through medieval streets and the rhythmic beat of drums fills the evening air, one of the most impressive times of the year begins on the North Costa Blanca: Semana Santa. Between Dénia and Altea, deep spirituality, centuries-old traditions, and the first warm spring sun blend into an experience that fascinates visitors and locals alike.Key Traditions: More Than Just ProcessionsIn Spain, Easter (Pascua) is not about hunting for chocolate eggs, but about witnessing the Passion of Christ through the community's eyes.The Cofradías: Brotherhoods carry heavy, elaborately carved religious statues (Pasos) on their shoulders through the towns.The "Encuentro": One of the most emotional moments on Easter Sunday, when the...

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