SPECIAL OFFER ÁBACOCLUB MEMBERS By being a ÁbacoClub and Mapfre client you can enjoy the best conditions to acquire the SECURITAS DIRECT Alarm.
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This equipment is totally wireless and does not require any type of pre-installation or work to be installed. The installation is done in a completely customized way to adjust to your needs of Safety and Comfort, at the same time that you will know how to use and make the most of your alarm from the first day. Two options to choose from:
UNIQUE PAYMENT OPTION Installation for only 240,79€ (199€+VAT) (without additional payments)
DEFERRED PAYMENT OPTION 0€ to the installation plus 36 payments of 12,10€ (10€/month+VAT)
The monthly fee of the equipment offered is 39,93€ (33€/month+VAT) and includes connection to CRA, communications, and full maintenance of the system. Hiring with commitment of permanence of 24 months (36 in deferred option). It is possible to make extensions of the equipment offered at the time of installation. Such extensions would not be included in the Offer and would be paid directly to the Securitas Direct Specialist.
Take advantage of this Special Offer, call +34 618 608 208, quote ÁbacoClub and we will explain all the details. We are waiting for you to contact us. Sincerely, Commercial Executive Securitas Direct Francisco Javier Lorca López Email: f.lorca@securitasdirect.es Mobile: +34 618 608 208 Exclusive offer for ÁbacoClub members and through this contact channel, if it is managed through another channel, the conditions may suffer important variations of which we are not responsible. The application of this offer is subject to a risk report by Securitas Direct. In Business the deferred option consists of 48 payments of 12,10€ (10€/month + VAT) and 48 months of permanence. Document without contractual character: the offer, the equipment and the monthly fee may suffer variations.
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ÁbacoClub Magazine is a free magazine for ÁbacoClub members. Edit ÁBACO ADVISERS Ábaco Asesoría Legal y Fiscal, S.L.U. María Parodi, 8 - 3º 03181 Torrevieja (Alicante) Spain ÁbacoClub Magazine Issue 06 - August 2022 magazine@abacoclub.es www.abacoclub.es
ÁbacoClub – Welcome!
08
Enjoy the best natural pools on the Costa Blanca
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Clear objective. Saving with solar energy
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Charm, beauty and tradition. The perfect place to stay in Granada
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Michelin guide - Our selection of restaurants
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Wine lovers Enjoying wine in the Costa Blanca
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Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world
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Quirónsalud Torrevieja Traffic Unit: free attention 365 days a year
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Lara Cars - Car hire that you can trust
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Discover the true essence of Torrevieja
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How might the GBP/EUR exchange rate move in early 2022?
34
Explore the islands by boat
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La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf
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Tinsa - What factors influence the value of a home?
August Issue
06
Welcome
Building friendships, finding new things to do and places to go – ÁbacoClub is always at your service and looking forward to times ahead.
the idea of ÁbacoClub members getting together to line dance. I know so many of you enjoy this type of music and entertainment and it’s something that I’m keen to organise. Once we’ve found the right venue and checked it out then you can expect to hear something about this coming up soon.
ÁbacoClub – looking to the future When we set out to build our ÁbacoClub we never anticipated the roller coaster we’ve been on. On the one hand there have been so many difficulties for all of us to face and on the other the club has been a source of comfort, we know, to so many of you. Friendships have blossomed in a way that we never thought possible from gatherings of strangers – many with very different backgrounds and lifestyles. What continues to amaze and delight me is just how each activity we’ve engaged on has led to people finding new friendships and new interests too. Wherever possible we are committed to meeting face-to-face. Our events are designed to provide new experiences and tasters of what this region of Spain has to offer. And there is so much. We are blessed here with having the best in catering – both international and traditional Spanish. We have breath-taking countryside, national parks and stunning scenery both coastal and inland. We have traditional industries and rural pursuits that we can’t wait to share with you, and some of them we already have. As you know, however, we are also at the mercy of current events. Covid hasn’t quite disappeared into the past and unfortunately we have had to cancel on occasions when we’ve felt that health and safety might be compromised. We know that you understand this and thank you for your patience. When this happens it is disappointing for all of us but it won’t stop us from sourcing out the events, activities and opportunities that we know you’ll enjoy for the future. Although in its early stages, we’re already thinking ahead and excited about one event that’s on the horizon. I’ve always loved
A favourite event in the past has been wine tasting. So, let’s take it a stage further and have a go at producing our own wine! Well, not exactly but an event I’m currently looking into involves us a bit more closely in the wine production itself. Have you ever wondered what it feels like to actually tread the grapes? What comes as a constant source of surprise and delight is the vast array of skills and interests that ÁbacoClub members have themselves. Some of you have brought existing interests over with you and have found ways of continuing to enjoy your previous hobbies here in Spain. Others have discovered new pursuits, particularly suited to the Spanish way of life. Either way, we want to create the opportunity to share these. We are currently researching venues and dates for a ‘show and share’ flea market type experience. The idea is that we set up stalls to exhibit the range of hobbies, interests and skills that we have. At the moment we are aiming for October and are excited at the prospect of us all showcasing some traditional, and not so traditional, examples of different cultures. In particular, we have in mind, exchanging books, recipes and ways of relaxing. Instead of wine tasting, why not try whisky tasting? With so many different nationalities represented in ÁbacoClub it could be an excellent way of swapping tips from around the world. Of course, once we have the events in place as the weather cools a little then we can also catch up on social media. This is the best way of sharing forthcoming activities and letting you know how they went. Information is also placed in ÁbacoOnline and as places are limited, it is important to check your account to find out what’s coming up.
Finally, do let us know if you have any ideas or suggestions for ÁbacoClub. I do try to make myself accessible and have had many conversations with you about your preferences. I really appreciate it when people take the time to message and I try to follow up with a prompt reply. It’s always lovely to hear from you! It’s an exciting time for ÁbacoClub and I’m looking forward to continuing to share the journey, the joys and the possibilities here in Spain.
06 - ÁbacoClub – looking to the future
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T
he Costa Blanca is blessed with many natural springs and waterfalls where it is safe and enjoyable to take a swim. You don’t need to go to the coast to refresh yourself during the hot summer months and many of these spots are perfect for visiting during the cooler seasons too.
08 - Enjoy the best natural pools on the Costa Blanca
Discovering Spain
As people are keen to make up for lost time, we invite you to try out these pools, waterfalls, lakes and streams. Their location often means that you can combine a visit with a
which is the official entrance to this historical site. There are a selection of museums in Guadalest, the most intriguing of which are possibly the Museum of Torture Instruments and the Salt and Pepper Shakers museum.
Enjoy the best natural pools on the Costa Blanca hiking trail or some sightseeing. Whether it’s to enjoy the water exclusively or the pool is a feature of your longer quest, you can guarantee a good day out.
Fonts d’Algar (Callosa d’en Sarrià) Situated only 19 minutes from Benidorm the Algar springs and waterfalls are linked together by natural streams that make this a must for anyone who enjoys a refreshing dip. This is a spectacular setting and popular in the summer, but be warned, as the water comes down from the surrounding mountains it can be a little on the chilly side! The area is very popular and there is a designated route of 1.5 km which will take you via some spectacular waterfalls, springs, ‘tolls’ (pools), an old dam and many other features. There are a number of services available including a Tourist Office, parking areas, toilets, a picnic area and camping is available too. It’s a good idea to combine the springs with a visit to the beautiful town of Callosa d’en Sarrià.This is a traditional Spanish settlement which has a number of places of historical interest to visit. Alternatively, you can take a hike through the Sierra de Bernia which is a mountain range with breathtaking views. Altogether there is 11km of this rugged landscape with its highest point being 1,219m. Nearby is the village of Guadalest, which is well worth a visit and is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Take time to stop by its castle and meander through its Portal de Sant Josep
Gorg del Salt (Planes)
Back to bathing in crystal clear water, and this time we’d like to take you to the Gorg del Salt. You might approach this natural gorge via the hiking route that begins at the Santísimo Cristo hermitage in the little town of Planes. It isn’t too difficult to navigate but we do recommend that you make sure you have some comfortable footwear for your hike. Follow this pleasant route through Mediterranean foliage and arrive at your destination – the Barranc de l’Encantà. Here you’ll find a number of different pools to reward you for your journey. Some of these pools are formed from natural gorges, this includes the Gorg del Salt which culminates in a waterfall with a drop of 5 meters. The Gorg del Salt is described as an ‘inland beach’ and isn’t the only one that we will meet in this list of places to dip. It’s the largest and most famous of the swimming holes in this ravine and is shadowed by the almost vertical mountain on the left. Here you can swim short laps and be aware that close to the waterfall the water is quite deep. It’s a popular place for families enjoying picnics and hikers alike.
Alt de Senabre (Lorcha) The Serpis River is one of the most important in the Alicante province. It is 75 km long extending from its source in the Font Roja to its mouth in Gandía. It ends in the town of Lorcha and here you will find another inland beach - The Alt de Senabre, part of Barranc de l’Encantà. This is a perfect recreational spot to relax and take a dip. Here, you can enjoy the surroundings with your family, including your dog, and spend the day at this unique inland beach.
Lorcha, similar to Planes, is a very small town of around 600 to 700 residents. It is in fact the last town to cross the Serpis River and its proximity to this water sources means that it is relatively lush in comparison to some other parts of Spain. This also makes it ideal for farmers and you can see olive trees, almond trees and cherry trees cultivated here.
Enjoy the best natural pools on the Costa Blanca - 09
Discovering Spain
El Salto Del Usero You might like to try El Salto Del Usero in the town of Bullas in Murcia. This is considered to be one of Murcia’s hidden gems, although it still manages to be visited by hundreds of people every year. You can admire the waterfalls, take a dip in the natural pools and explore the area via the wooden walkways.
Molí L’Ombría (Banyeres de Mariola) The Vinalopó River is a small river flowing through the Alicante province of Spain. During the 1970s structures were built to divert its water and provide a wider area of irrigation. This has led to the creation of the river feeding Molí L’Ombría and the Banyeres de Mariola. Starting out as a stream, it flows into different pools and has become a superb recreational area. It can be accessed either on foot or directly from the parking lot which is only a few metres from the pool itself. The camping area includes showers and toilets with drinking water, fountains and a picnic area. There is a cyclo-cross circuit and leisure areas for children. From this base you can take the Ruta dels Molins which passes by three important paper mills along with other buildings of architectural importance. The Sierra Mariola was made into a national park in 2002 and is a rich source of waterfalls and natural lakes and pools. It is home to a network of paths and hikes and includes ‘cavas’ where snow was stored. You can also see a range of farmhouses, castles and hermitages. If it’s the natural environment you are more interested in then you are spoilt for choice with more than 1,400 different types of plants including many with medicinal properties such as sage, chamomile and St. John’s wort. Most of this mountain range is covered with pine trees and bushes as well as heather and gorse. As you would
Delve into the nature of the province of Alicante
expect, the Sierra Mariola is also home to a rich wildlife including a selection of birds such as the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon. You might even come across some wild boar or perhaps wild cats. Banyares de Mariola is one of the small towns locally with a castle that dates back to Arab times. This is an area that is teaming with historical features and some of these are celebrated in the town’s museums. Paper manufacturing was an important industry for the area between the 18th and late 20th century and you can visit a. number of abandoned paper mills. At one time, Banyares de Mariola depended on paper for its economy and you can find out more about the industry’s development and demise at the Valencian Paper Museum which is located here.
La Rambla de Puça (Petrer) This is a mini paradise situated to the east of Elda- Petrer. It can combine a pleasant walk of just over half an hour with sightseeing including windmills and waterfalls. The path is almost flat and stretches between carob trees and other foliage and vegetation. The waterfall itself, El Salt, is up to fifteen metres high with a pool that just has to be tried after your walk. Be aware that sometimes in summer the water can be lower but you should still be able to enjoy its emerald, crystal-clear waters. The depth of the pool and the flow of the waterfalls is dependent on how much rain there has been during the autumn, winter and spring. However, you should still be able to bathe and enjoy standing underneath the fresh, mountain spring water. Depending on which route you follow, you can also see a number of different sites of interest. There is an old dairy, an aqueduct, the Turkish Mill and a selection of caves including a large, natural arch created by erosion. Once you’ve completed your trail you might want to stop by the Molí la Reixa – a mill which has been converted into a restaurant. That is, if you forgot to pack your picnic beforehand.
And there’s more This is only a small selection of the springs, waterfalls, pools and lakes that you can find in the Costa Blanca region. We’ve introduced you to a few but now it’s your turn to explore. The region is blessed with many mountainous areas and where there are mountains, there is a good chance that you will find cascades of water making its way to the valley below.
10 - Enjoy Menorca, the best they natural say theypools do things on theinCosta a special Blanca way
Enjoy the best natural pools on the Costa Blanca - 11
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Green Spain
Spain is blessed with more than its fair share of sunny days so solar energy would seem to be a no-brainer as a major energy source. And yet, the majority of properties still do not capitalize on this option. Now it
Clear objective Saving with solar energy looks as though the outlook is promising for those who want to save money and look after the planet. It’s not surprising with the current electricity bills that people are looking for alternatives. In a country with so much sunshine it can come as something of a surprise that wind is still an important alternative when solar energy has not always been exploited to its full capacity. There are historical reasons for this linked to protecting profit and the National Grid and the drive from electricity providers to ensure that their costs are met. Now, the situation seems to be improving but to install solar panels is not cheap and you need to feel confident that there will be a financial, as well as environmental, benefit for you. Fortunately, the outlook for installing solar panels improved significantly in 2019 when the requirement to connect panels to the National Grid was dropped. However, most people still choose to connect as it enables them to use National Grid electricity if their own source should dry up and also to sell their excess when it occurs. Is it worth it for you? It is important that you arrange for a study into the viability of the project. There are a number of factors that can make a difference to you. For example, the direction in which your roof slopes will alter the amount of sunlight received and when. A number of suppliers are advertising currently. You do not need to take the first that provides you with a quote. Do
shop around and ask questions about the cost of an estimate, if they work with just one energy provider and to what extent they deal with the paperwork. There is paperwork to complete to make sure that the installation is legal. You will need confirmation from the provider that this is included in their offer and feel confident that they are in a position to deliver. You will need as a minimum an ‘obra menor’ building licence. This is the permit you must have if you are making a minor change to your property. When you are comparing quotes make sure you take into account the quality of what’s on offer. As you would expect, the price does vary with the quality and it may pay you to invest more at this stage to have greater savings later on. Overall, the price of individual solar panels has come down whilst the amount of power they can produce has gone up. A good combination if you are considering making the change. The terms and conditions of each company will be different and it is important to look at the small print. If you are not fluent in Spanish you should get someone to check this out for you and not rely on an Englishspeaking employee. Some companies will rent out the panels which may be a better option for you. Keep in mind how long you intend to stay in the property you are planning to install the panels in. A return on the original cost of the panels will take some years and if you are planning to move before then you may not see the anticipated return on your investment. It may improve the value of your home but not to the same extent as the cost of the panels in the first place. The situation is changing constantly and what’s important is that you take advice and not just from those trying to sell you the product. Although the situation is much more positive than it was in 2019, it is still a big investment and one that you need to feel confident about. A relatively recent article on this issue has been published by MoneySaver Spain. They include a rough guide for the cost of materials and installation. Although the article is dated October 2021, it should act as a benchmark at least: moneysaverspain.com/solar-panels-spain/
Clear objective - Going green with energy - 13
If you’re looking for a very special place to stay in the perfect Spanish setting then we have a recommendation to make. ‘Raro de Luna’ – literally translated as ‘strange moon’ is the perfect spot to enjoy the magic of
Included in the price are healthy breakfasts and you can reserve your place at the dinner table too with home cooking provided by Pedro Casamayor and his partner María. Pedro prides himself on his traditional and original dishes prepared with local products and you can also request some extras:
Raro de Luna Charm, beauty and tradition. The perfect place to stay in Granada Granada. Situated in the little town of Gójar it is both within easy reach of the area’s attractions whilst also providing a get-away for those looking for peace, tranquility and a little bit of pampering. Although technically we might class this as a bed and breakfast, it is so much more. There are two spacious double bedrooms and two bathrooms available for your exclusive use along with access to a living room, a work and reading room and the beautiful Andalusian patio.
Situated in the little town of Gójar it is both within easy reach of the area’s attractions whilst also providing a get-away for those looking for peace, tranquility and a little bit of pampering
• Workshops on the traditional gastronomy of Granada including vegetarian food workshops, bread and confectionary • Excursions around the Sierra Nevada national park to take in the inspiring views and landscape whilst also discovering plants with culinary and healing properties • Chiromassage sessions
The house itself is in the central town square and you’ll have no trouble parking in the free 24-hour public car park. You will have access to all the facilities of this little town including restaurants, bars, supermarkets and from here you can take the bus to Granada city. Gójar is set in a fertile plain from which radiates a range of hiking routes. You also have easy access to the neighbouring local town of Dílar with its mountains and rivers. Other nearby towns, each with their own heritage, personality and reasons to visit, include Monachíl, La Zubia and the beautiful town of Güéjar Sierra. You can take in the breathtaking surroundings of Los Cahorros and the Cumbres Verdes and then return to the sumptuous dining of Pedro. Travel for half an hour, and you have the Sierra Nevada Ski resort which provides the highest quality of winter sports. Again, a short distance away are the white villages of the Alpujarras of Granada and the Lecrín Valley. This region has a rich history of Moorish influence that is reflected in its buildings and outlook. The area is surprisingly fertile due to the number of rivers and the irrigation that they provide. So you’ll see vineyards and orchards of orange and fig trees along with chestnuts and almonds. This is not a dry, barren area but one full of lush vegetation, fauna and flora.
Take another direction and you reach the coastline of Granada scattered with Mediterranean towns such as Salobreña, Almuñecar and La Herradura. The mild temperatures here make them attractive to visitors throughout the year. All in all, you couldn’t wish for a better spot to enjoy this fabulous region or a warmer welcome than at Raro de Luna.
14 - Raro de Luna. The perfect place to stay in Granada - Cleartapas, objective - Going green energy 08 -14 Spanish the temptation in awith single bite
15% DISCOUNT for members ÁbacoClub
More Info: pedro.casamayor@gmail.com
Raro de luna
SomosFibra Group, Eastern Spain’s telecommunication company leader - 17
Discovering Spain
Michelin guide Our selection of restaurants Where do you like to eat when there’s a special occasion? We all have our favourite restaurants for those birthdays, anniversaries and occasions that we want to mark. In this article we share with you some of the finest dining experiences across the Costa Blanca – restaurants that have been given the highest accolade of a Michelin star. We’ve all Heard of Michelin stars and recognize that they mark a level of culinary excellence but how much more do you know about them? Restaurants can now be awarded either 1, 2 or 3 stars but the quality standard began with allocating only one star in 1926 as the mark of a ‘very good restaurant’. Later stars were added so that the distinctions came to mean: One star High quality cooking and worth a stop Two stars Excellent cooking that is worth a detour Three stars Exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey
The founding principle The original thought behind the Michelin Guide was to help those travelling for a living to find a good place to eat when they were out of town. This celebrated reference book has been published annually since 1900 and has grown in influence and reach. The criteria for being awarded a Michelin Star include:
• the personality of the chef as expressed in their cuisine • consistency over time and across the menu
Becoming a Michelin restaurant The Michelin Guide success story depends upon its objectivity. We have all been victims of recommendations made on the basis of vested interests. You read a review and are inspired to try its source only to discover that the restaurant is a medium-quality venue that happened to pay for its advertorial. Unfortunately, customer reviews, although possibly more reliable where there are many, can also skew you off course. The key to the validity of the Michelin star is that of its inspectors. These inspectors are given official training in France, are full time employees and are sworn to anonymity. It is vital that any restaurant they visit isn’t aware of who they are for obvious reasons. They have to have a keen interest in food and most of them have a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. It’s not just one visit that they base their award on. An inspector can return to a venue between three to six times and the decision about awarding a star comes from a discussion with other inspectors who have also been to the restaurant. Usually, inspectors dine alone but not always. They will sometimes dine together or even as a group and they don’t come with a name badge. One of the requirements of the role is the ability to blend in as a normal paying customer.
Dishes will be tried over the period of a year and at different times. So, for example, ins• the quality of the ingredients pectors will try the food at lunch time, dinner time, weekends and during the week • the harmony of flavours to check for consistency. This must be a • the mastery of techniques rigorous process to guarantee confidence. After all, gaining or losing a star can make a huge difference to your popularity! It is said that Gordon Ramsay was devastated when his New York restaurant lost its stars.
Other ratings The inspectors’ brief for a Michelin star does not include the décor of the hotel. It is purely focused on the food, its taste and the quality of the ingredients. However, acknowledgment is made of other aspects of the restaurants’ ambience using a rating of 1 to 5. One ‘fork’ re-
18 - Michelin guide , our selection of restaurants
presents a comfortable restaurant and five ‘forks’ a luxurious restaurant. Restaurants with interesting views are given a black symbol and those with magnificent views a red symbol. If you are reading this article and thinking that a Michelin Star restaurant is well out of your pocket then think again. The Michelin Guide also has a ‘Bib Gourmand’ award which it allocates to restaurants where the food is both very good and reasonably priced.
Award giants To gain one star is an incredible achievement but for these individuals and their premises – there was no stopping them: • Joël Robuchon – once held a total of 32 Michelin stars across his different restaurants • Tokyo has a staggering 161 restaurants with Michelin stars • La Gavroche was the first UK restaurant to achieve a Michelin Star in 1974 • The restaurant with the longest running three-star award is Les Prés d’Eugénie in France which was first awarded three stars in 1977
In Spain In 2021 it was recorded that there were 224 Michelin-starred restaurants in the whole of Spain with 253 restaurants being awarded the ‘bib gourmand’ for producing very good reasonably priced food of 35€ or less. In July 2021, the Spanish region with the most Michelin-rated restaurants was Catalonia with 51, followed by the Basque Country with 23, the Community of Madrid with 21 and then the Valencian Community with 20.
The Costa Blanca Alicante has more than its fair share of Michelin restaurants. It can boast 16 Michelin stars between 12 restaurants including one three-star restaurant in Dénia. It is here that we will begin. Quique Dacosta (Dénia) – 3 stars Quique Dacosta is considered to be one of the chefs with the most outstanding reputations in the world. Situated in Dénia, this restaurant provides an amazing selection of dishes including very special versions of beetroot, shellfish, prawns and many different kinds of rice dishes. It’s certainly got a list of special clients in-
Michelin guide , our selection of restaurants - 19
Discovering Spain
cluding the King of Spain and Robert de Niro and dining there would definitely be something to write home about. BONAMB Restaurant (Jávea) – 2 stars Opened in summer 2011 BONAMB achieved its first Michelin Star in 2013 and was awarded the second in 2016. The reasons why are quite plain to see. Alberto Ferruz is the inspiration behind the restaurant and head of house is Pablo Catalá. The restaurant has some stunning terraces, is beautifully positioned and oozes elegance. L’Escaleta (Cocentaina) – 2 stars The chef at this spectacular restaurant is Kiko Moya, who along with Alberto Redrado is responsible for the fine dining here. After receiving their first star in 2001 it wasn’t until 2016 that they were awarded the lucrative second star. You can feast on rice, meat and fish and enjoy the perfect wine to accompany your meal. Their menus are on the website and start from an affordable 29,50€. It is a family restaurant that prides itself on using local produce and, into its second generation of master chefs, is keen to maintain its excellent reputation. TULA (Jávea) – 1 star On the Playa del Arenal in Jávea you’ll find this little restaurant with its roots in the home cooking of the Mediterranean. The origin of this homely food is Borja’s grandmother, Tula. You can find her cooking encapsulated in dishes such as grilled croquettes with spring onion and goats cheese or parsnip and corn soup and, of course, the restaurant wouldn’t be complete without a selection of seafood. Casa Pepa (Ondara) – 1 star Take a look at your surroundings and you can be left in no doubt that you are enjoying the finest food on the beautiful Mediterranean coast. Head chef, Aina Serra Pedros, along with Francesc Llull aim to ensure that their menus reflect the olive and orange trees that you’ll find here and the flavour of the Mediterranean. On its website you can see some of its signature dishes. They offer three set menus ranging from 65€ to 107€ with between 4 to 7 courses along with appetizers and deserts. Casa Pepa is considered to be one of the leaders in contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. Orobianco (Calp) – 1 star This is the only Italian restaurant with a Michelin star in Spain. Its position overlooking Calpe from its hilltop perch, is the perfect setting. The food is a fusion of tastes and Chef Marco Tacchetto describes it as being ‘a restaurant with Italian roots but with a Spanish heart.’
20 - Michelin guide , our selection of restaurants
You can choose between five (60€), seven (85€) and eleven courses (120€) which feature local products used in classic Italian cuisine. It’s a seasonal menu and vegetarian and vegan versions of all the options are available. Audrey’s (Calpe) – 1 star Audrey’s was awarded its Michelin star in 2017 and is situated in the AR Diamante Beach Hotel. With two menus to choose from – Menú Terra (125€) and Menú Levante (95€), the chef Rafa Soler prides himself on being an ambassador of Mediterranean gastronomy using only the best ingredients. BEAT (Calpe) – 1 star Calpe is blessed with a high concentration of excellent restaurants. BEAT is the third restaurant in this area to boast a Michelin star. It is situated in the boutique hotel The Cookbook and chef José Manuel Miguel offers you a choice of three menus – Inspiration Menu (125€), Le Gout menu (95€) and La Nature Menu – the vegetarian option (95€). El Xato (La Nucía) – 1 star El Xato goes back to 1915 and is now into its fourth generation of the Cano family. Cristina Figueira is the master chef at work here. You can indulge your family and friends with a 6 Senses Experience Gift Box including one of the two menus – Temptations and Centenary. Their Centennial Menu, for example, includes six appetizers, six starters, a fish and a meat dish, a pre-dessert and a dessert for 89€. Baeza & Rufete (Alicante) – 1 star Located in el Cabo de la Huerta de Alicante, this extraordinary restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 2020. Chef, Joaquín Baeza, prides himself on the quality of the fish and seafood served here. Monastrell (Alicante) – 1 star María José San Román is the chef at this award-winning restaurant. You can choose from three menus – Alicante, Monastrell and Monastrell Expresión. The ingredients that are used here come directly from its own organic garden and sustainability is a high priority alongside María José’s dedication to flavour. Her ‘undercover’ menu includes six starters and is priced at 115€. La Finca (Elche) – 1 star This restaurant is very close to home for us and is owned and run by chef Susi Diaz. Here you can select from her menu including a range of traditional cheese and ham, caviar and white prawns. Take a look at the website to see the most amazing images of the food that she serves.
Wine lovers
Whether you are already a wine connoisseur or not, most people have their personal favourites when it comes to a
The ideal environment So why is the Costa Blanca so good for winegrowing? To begin with, there’s the 300 days of sunshine. Perfect for vineyards and grape growing. Secondly, there’s the tradition that goes back generations and brings knowledge and experience to the wine production business. Altogether there are 38 wineries or bodegas making up Alicante’s list of la Denominación de Origen Protegida Vinos de Alicante.
Wine lovers Enjoying wine in the Costa Blanca glass of wine. However, taking the trouble to find out more about what you’re drinking, learning to savour and recognize the differences and discovering new varieties can be a very enjoyable hobby. Oenology is the science and study of wine and winemaking. Unlike viticulture, which is the science of growing and cultivating grapes, oenology is more about the fermentation of grapes into wine. Believe it or not, it is actually a popular subject for study at university level – so wherever you are on the wine tasting spectrum there’s always more to learn. Most of us only want to delve so far into the science behind it. But it really can be an enjoyable and interesting hobby and living in or visiting the Costa Blanca gives you the perfect opportunity to indulge. In this article we’re going to introduce you to some of the most celebrated local bodegas and hope that you’ll take the opportunity to explore, taste and enjoy.
Altogether there are 38 wineries or bodegas making up Alicante’s list of la Denominación de Origen Protegida Vinos de Alicante
Most of these vineyards grow the Monastrell grape. Fondillón also features regularly. This is a fortified wine which is recognized by the European Union Commission as a luxury wine along with Sherry, Port or Champagne. It’s thought that the name has its origins in the Spanish ‘fondo’ which means ‘the bottom’ as this wine accumulated at the bottom of the barrels. Fondillón has no vintage. Each bottle includes a unique blend of wines from different years that have aged together for at least ten years to form the final product, ready for you to drink. Here you have our selection of some Costa Blanca vineyards and bodegas that will welcome you to visit.
Bodega Francisco Gómez Just imagine a 250-hectare estate complete with vineyards, Phoenician archaeology and even a labyrinth. The Francisco Gómez Bodega is situated in Villena and is renowned for its Monastrell grapes. It nestles between the Sierras del Castellar and El Serruchón and is considered to be a must to visit on the Alicante wine route. The estate is the home of much more than just hundreds of vines. It’s got a distinct archaeological past that includes a hermitage and an oil mill. Its labyrinth of narrow corridors within the wine cellar has to be seen. Altogether there are around 1,100 alcoves containing its very special wine selection.
Their collection of wines includes white, rosé and red, sparkling and sweet wines. They are all farmed in an ecologically friendly way and are suitable for vegans and those wanting kosher wine. The bodega has an online shop where you can buy their recommended wines and oils ranging from the fruto noble joven at 4€ to their Queen of Kings Sauvignon Blanc – especial caja madera at 134,90€. Alternatively, you can visit yourself and take part in one of their guided
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Wine Lovers
tours. They will organize wine tasting and you can also try their extra virgin oils. Their aim is to share with visitors their passion and enthusiasm for wine making and toast the trade with you. There are different routes to choose from starting at 20€ per person and the tour lasts 1 ½ hours. The Queen of Kings route (20€) includes a visit to their vineyards and cellars, the barrel room and hermitage. You can taste four wines and two types of oil and you’ll be provided with a selection of Iberian nibbles too. The number to call to book your visit is on the website: www. bodegasfranciscogomez.es The ’ruta enológica’ includes the same tour but you sample four wines instead of the sparkling varieties.
Finca Collado (Salinas) Fancy a picnic with an oenological twist? Then a visit to Finca Collado might be just what’s needed. The Finca is set in the Alto Vinalopó area and this bodega is proud to announce that they define their own path. It is an old farmhouse surrounded by vineyards, olive and almond trees and the area is not without its challenges. The soil has a high salt content and there is little rainfall. This has not stopped the proprietors from producing some amazing wines including syrah, merlot and chardonnay from monastrell and moscatell grapes. A visit to this bodega can include a tour of the wine cellar and wine tasting of three wines. There must be a minimum of 6 people and the visit will last one hour but only costs 10 euros per person. You need to book at least 4 days in advance. You can enjoy a longer tour of 1 hour 45 minutes which includes a tour of the vineyards, five wines to taste and you get a souvenir glass thrown in. This tour costs 15€. Another option to help you enjoy the bodega and its surroundings is their ‘picnic between vineyards’ option. You can visit the bodega, find out more about the wines created there and then take a picnic basket (including gourmet and vegetarian options) and choose your favourite spot with views of the Sierra de Cabrera and the Sierra de Salinas. They prepare the picnic basket (there is also a vegan option) and provide you with a map of the estate so you can find your way around. This will cost 45€ per person or you can opt for the gourmet picnic of
- The most coves on Costabite Blanca 08 -22 Spanish tapas,admired the temptation in the a single
60€ per person. Tasting five different wines is included in the price and you can then select your favourite wine following the tasting to enjoy with your lunch. Finca Collado’s website is in English so you can browse yourself to see what exactly is available.
Bodegas Monóvar Fondillón was traditionally considered to be the ‘wine of kings’ and this is the special product of the Bodegas Monóvar. It is made from Monostrell grapes and the winery boasts some of the oldest casks in Spain. A visit to this bodega could be combined with a stop off at Casas Sanchiz where you can try some delicious dishes such as grilled fish and meat and rice with octopus. Of course, you can also sample a fine selection of wines here too.
Las Virtudes The Villena area is well-known for its bodegas. Las Virtudes is one such establishment also responsible for the production of fondillón. It is part of a cooperative and boasts a barrel cellar including 300 barrels which they would be delighted for you to visit. The oil mill on site is a later addition but the tradition dates back to the Middle Ages. Every year they harvest around one and a half million kilos of olives which makes 300,000 litres of extra virgin olive oil. The bodega offers the opportunity to do both a little wine and oil tasting and is linked to La Teja Azul restaurant where you can enjoy a glass along with a delicious meal. The visits last for 1 hour and 30 minutes and can be conducted in both Spanish and English. For 15€ you can have a guided tour of the winery, taste 3 wines and 2 oils, enjoy traditional bread and cold meats and taste Fondillón ‘Tesoro de Villena’ with pastries. You can make this a family day out with discounts for larger bookings and the opportunity to host your special events there. There is a children’s area where they can play while you relax, an added bonus for busy families.
Wine and music It’s not just about enjoying fine dining, music can have an important part to play in the wine lovers calendar too. During the summer you can enjoy ‘Vino y Música’ thanks to the six celebrated bodegas of bodega Casa Agrícola, Bodega Les Freses, Bodega Riko, Bodega Teulada, bodegas, conciertos, Finca Agrícola Les Basses, M
de Alejandría, Melicatesen. Whilst listening to different musicians you can sample the muscatel wine and enjoy a selection of tapas. A perfect way to spend a warm summer’s evening. The evenings are held in La Marina Plaza during the months of May and June so if you’ve missed them this year, make sure to watch out on the website for their return.
Bodegas Volver Bodegas Volver in Pinoso in open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm. You can have a guided tour that includes an audiovisual presentation of the process from the picking of the grapes to the bottling of the wine. You have a tour of the vineyards and the cellars and of course, you get to taste three of their wines and nibbles too. The cost of the tour is 18€ and it can go ahead with a minimum of 4 people, lasting for one hour and 15 minutes approximately. If you want to go a little further and extend your stay then we recommend Jardín de las Eras in Algueña. From this overnight stop you can continue on your guided tour of Bodegas Volver where you can learn about
its vineyards and winery and, of course, taste the products.
Xaló The town of Xaló is the centre of mistela wine production. Mistela is a sweet wine that can come in white or red varieties. There are a number of different bodegas in this town and you can visit them and purchase directly from their shops. For example, Bodegas Xaló is proud of its Mistela Riu Riu which won the Gran Premio 2021 PROAVA for the best wine out of all the categories in the Valencian Community. Visits to this bodega cost 12€ for 90 minutes and are delivered in both Spanish and English.
Salinas de Torrevieja The vineyards of La Mata in Torrevieja produce a very special wine born from this unique salty environment. The Vino de La Mata is made from the muscatel and merseguera grapes and finding out more about this wine also offers the opportunity to explore the salt lake landscape with its pink laguna. Bodega Rodriguez de Vera invites you to hold your special celebrations at their bodega. A tour of the bodega costs 15€ and includes a tour of the vineyards and cellars in el Villar de Chinchilla (Albacete) and tasting of three wines. You can also visit the natural park in La Mata, this time sampling two wines, again for the cost of 15€. These are just a selection of the bodegas in the Costa Blanca area.
We invite you to try them but also to go a little further abroad and find ones of your own.
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The Natural Park of La Mata is a very special place. Caught between the two natural lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata, the cool shelter of its pine trees and its protected status make it an ideal place for wildlife and for those who enjoy a natural
La Horca La Horca is made from the Merseguera grape along with 16 other varieties. Four months in the barrel, this clear white wine has a slightly lemony appearance and is dry to the taste with flavours reminiscent of aromatic herbs and citrus. A total of 3,500 bottles are produced each year and it has been recognised for a James Suckling award of 92 points.
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world landscape. Perhaps what’s most surprising is that this very special area is on the doorstep of some of the most built-up tourist areas in Alicante. And yet, stepping from La Siesta or La Mata roundabout into this quiet sanctuary, you would never guess that. Nor would you guess that this location is also home to one of the oldest and most venerated vineyards in Spain. In ancient times 250 hectares of land was given over to wine production in this spot. Now it’s reduced to 35 but the good news is that the future of this industry is now protected by the determination and dedication of four friends. Pepe Rodríguez de Vera, Hilarión Pedauyé, Álvaro Ruiz and Alberto Soriano have joined together to ensure that the Valencian Community does not lose this special vineyard. Because there is something quite unique about the flavour of the wine produced here. Grown in adversity, the saline conditions of the soil mean that Sopla Levante wines have a quite distinct personality. Already there are six different varieties available from the vineyard and there are plans to extend the selection further. New plots of Monsatrell, Cariñena and Valenci Negre are being included in a work that is a labour of love more than a profitmaking concern. If you want to check out the variety of grape and how the wine is produced – visit their website https:// rodriguezdevera.com/en/sopla-levante/ . There, they also share with you the various awards and recommendations that their wines have received.
Blanco Also from the Merseguera grape is Sopla Levante Blanco. A dry, white wine, with a pleasant citric flavour, it has been awarded 91 points according to the Peñin Guide to wine. Pinomar This dry, white wine is made from the Merseguera and Moscatel grapes which are fermented in their skins in a clay jar. With an alcohol content of 13.50% it has been awarded 93 by James Suckling and continues to be a very popular lemon-tinted wine. La Molineta La Molineta is Sopla Levante’s rosé wine. Less of this wine is produced than some of the other varieties in the Sopla Levante stable. Along with the distinction of being rated 92 by James Suckling it has also been given 91.38 by WineUp. A well-earned accreditation for this delicate wine with a clean and elegant taste. Lomas del Polo Now we move on to the vineyard’s selection of red wines. Lomas del Polo has a small production quota of 300 bottles and has been awarded 90 by James Suckling. Again, a dry wine, it has medium body with hints of red berries and dried fruit. Algayat Finally, we would like to introduce you to the vineyard’s second red wine. This time with an alcohol content of 15% and made from the Monastrell grape. It has a 91,38 recommendation from WineUp and 400 bottles are produced each year.
This is a brief introduction to the current wines of the Sopla Levante, but we hope that you will find out more about them first Now, we’d like to introduce individually this hand by ordering a bottle from their website selection of established and well-received and trying it for yourself. They even have wines. their own ‘Confradía’ wine club you can join where you can access discounts and order one of their special selection of wines as a ‘diamond’, ‘gold’, ‘silver’ or ‘bronze’ member. Whether you are familiar with the Rodríguez de Vera winegrowers or not, you can expect a very special experience when you enjoy one of their beautiful wines from one of their handpicked vineyards under the Spanish sun.
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world - 25
Quirónsalud Torrevieja
Quirónsalud Torrevieja Traffic Unit Fast, efficient and free attention 365 days a year To access this 24-hour service it is not necessary to have medical health insurance, since the unit provides free assistance to everyone who has suffered a traffic accident Summer is here, and with long-awaited summer vacations, it’s the time of year for road trips. However, going on a trip can become a nightmare if we are involved in a traffic accident. Most frequent injuries in a traffic accident In Spain there are an average of 150,000 road traffic injuries per year. Dr. Carlos Israel Puell, a specialist at the Rehabilitation Service of Quirónsalud Alicante and Torrevieja, indicates that “cervical spine sprain is the most frequent injury seen in traffic accidents, followed by back pain and lower back pain.” The most frequent symptoms are “neck pain, headaches, limitation of cervical mobility, ringing in the ear and a feeling of dizziness”. All of these are if the accident vehicle is a car. On the contrary, when the vehicle is a motorcycle, the injuries that can occur are very different, due to the fact that there is no protective chassis and the type of injuries often depend on the way in which the motorcyclist falls. Most common rehabilitation treatments after an accident After a traffic accident, the most important
thing is to recover fully and properly from injuries in order to avoid sequelae. The main treatments in this case combine pharmacological treatment with rehabilitation therapy. Only early, professional and personalized attention helps the road accident victim recover quickly and completely. The assessment and establishment of early treatment is essential to minimize any physical repercussions. In addition, from a medical point of view, it is essential that everyone involved in a traffic accident attend an urgent medical assessment, regardless of the severity of the damage suffered. The Traffic Units of Quirónsalud Torrevieja and Alicante provide care to patients who have suffered a traffic accident 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is made up of a multidisciplinary team made up of specialists in orthopaedics, neurology, rehabilitation and physiotherapy, and has all the necessary resources to offer the best service. Your health care includes the first emergency visit, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, consultations with different specialists, rehabilitation doctor and rehabilitation treatment, intensive care unit and, if necessary, urgent surgery. In addition, professionals have quick access to support services for accurate diagnosis. How to act in the event of a traffic accident? We must remain calm and act according to the instructions of the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT).
“The first step is to check if there are injured people and help them as far as possible, but without moving them. If the accident has had a major impact or if we are in any doubt, we should call the emergency service (112). The next recommendation is to go or be taken to a medical centre to be assessed by a specialist and start the appropriate treatment as soon as possible,” concludes Dr. Puell. How to avail of this service in case of an accident? To be attended by this unit, it is only necessary to go directly to the
26 - Quirónsalud Torrevieja Traffic Unit
emergency department of Quirónsalud Alicante or Torrevieja, where the administrative team will be in charge of carrying out all the procedures with the insurance company of your vehicle and will make complete medical attention available to you. You can also call the number 966 92 63 63 or write to trafico.torrevieja@quironsalud.es. Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital Emergency Service: 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. The Emergency Department at Quirónsalud Torrevieja is staffed by highly qualified professionals with the capacity to attend to general emergencies and paediatric emergencies with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. How does the Emergency Department work? The Emergency Department has a computerised prioritisation system (triage), where patients are attended according to the seriousness or urgency of their pathology. Emergencies in specialities such as: Ophthalmology, ENT, Dermatology, etc., are dealt with by the general emergency doctor and are referred to the specialist if deemed necessary during the hospital’s consultation hours. If doctors from other specialties are needed, they will be notified if their immediate assessment is considered necessary. Paediatric emergencies: close, warm and personalised care The paediatric daytime emergency service provides urgent care for children’s conditions (from birth to adolescence). It has facilities adapted to the tastes and needs of the youngest children. This allows for a more personalised and careful attention for parents and children. Quirónsalud Torrevieja has the most advanced treatments and techniques. These include: emergency laboratory, ultrasound, MRI and other complementary diagnostic tests. Quirónsalud Torrevieja also has its own ambulance service. Quirónsalud Torrevieja Emergency Direct Telephone: 966 925 779 About Quirónsalud Torrevieja International medical team. Free translation team. Quirónsalud Torrevieja Traffic Unit
Quirónsalud Torrevieja Accident and Emergency
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Quirónsalud Torrevieja Traffic Unit - 27
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Whether it’s a short or a long-stay holiday, securing the best car hire package is an important feature. Lara Cars is a family-run business that have stood the test of time and have adapted to provide their customers with the best terms and conditions
card deposit. These are just some of the ways in which we ensure that you receive the best package possible. In addition, we can guarantee that there are no hidden costs or extras and that the price you pay on reserving your vehicle will be the same as when you collect it.
Lara Cars Car hire that you can trust and a transparent service. In this article we hear more about what they have to offer and how they’re keeping staff and customers safe. Lara Cars is a family business that’s dedicated itself for many years to delivering a personalised car rental service. Established in 1989, we focus on the needs of our clients during their holidays in the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions. There are two very important aspects to this. Firstly, that we have a wide and varied fleet of waiting vehicles and secondly our working day-today ethics. Our guiding principles include those of honesty and transparency and we make sure that our clients understand our terms and conditions and that there are no hidden surprises or extras. We are a highly professional team who dedicate themselves to providing the quality service our clients deserve. The Lara Cars team consists of professionals of different nationalities with great experience in the sector. For more than 30 years we have addressed any worries that clients, from over 60 different countries, might have. During this time we have listened to their requests and preferences and we pride ourselves on offering a service that goes beyond that of other car rental businesses. We know, for example, how important car insurance, mileage allowance and credit card deposits are for people looking to hire a car. These parts of the rental process can cause concern but we offer a refreshing alternative to our customers. All our rentals comprise full insurance without excess, unlimited mileage and we never take a credit
Most of our customers have been renting from us for many years. Some for more than 20 years. They’ve continued to come to us as their trusted car rental business for short or long-stay holidays. For us, this is the greatest endorsement of our service – satisfied clients who return again and again whilst enjoying the Costa Blanca and Murcia. Our customers also recommend us to family and friends across the years. Their loyalty reflects our commitment to them. At Lara Cars we speak directly to our customers. There’s no middle man just a personal service that can tweak the offer when needed. This means that if there is a problem it can quickly be resolved. For example, our emergency service is available outside normal office hours. All day, every day, 24x7 we are there to assist you so that you can continue with your holiday, uninterrupted. If there is a sudden change in arrangements we can accommodate you. Don’t worry, we understand and we won’t apply charges in extenuating circumstances. You can use our drop off and pick up service from Alicante-Elche airport car park and also from Alicante train station. From the airport you can collect and return your car quickly and avoid the queues and waiting times of some other operators. We also have two offices where you can be attended to personally. One is in Los Altos urbanisation in Torrevieja and the other is at La Marina in San Fulgencio. In the current climate you can rest assured that we are taking all the necessary hygiene measures and have done so since the beginning of the pandemic. Following the advice of the health authorities we have adopted methods of ensuring that our customers and staff are protected. The measures we take have been recognised with the FENEVAL quality assurance guarantee ‘Espacio protegido COVID-19’ (premises protected from COVID-19). To receive this certificate we were inspected by TÜV SÜD as part of an external audit.
The audit included the protocol recommended to the transport industry and detailed in the ‘Guide to reducing the spread of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.’ This guide was published by the Secretary of State for Tourism in coordination with the Health Ministry and with the help of the Quality Tourism Institute. This stamp of approval is yet another indication of our commitment to a safe, secure and trusted service.
Lara Cars - Car hire that you can trust - 29
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Situated in the heart of Torrevieja, you’ll find Habitus – a unique place to dine and relax. You enter our restaurant through what was originally, a traditional fisherman’s home capturing the very essence of Torrevieja.
Our menu is carefully planned to ensure the best dining experience. To begin with you can choose from our selection of cold and hot starters. Why not try one of our specialities – ‘bolitos de queso’ or our carefully selected and prepared artichokes with clams – they are delicious.
Welcome to the flavours and aroma of the Mediterranean. Discover the true essence of Torrevieja What better way to dine than soaking up the ambience of this special restaurant in a popular coastal town. Welcome to the flavours and aroma of the Mediterranean. Every detail is attended to in our carefully created dishes – recognised for their quality and the love that has gone into their preparation. We want your visit to our restaurant to be special from the moment you set foot inside. Our dedicated front of house staff have one goal – to make you feel comfortable. Then our chefs and sous-chefs set to work to create the dishes that will delight you.
When you have finished your meal – there’s no rush. You can relax and unwind on our patio and secluded terrace
Now for the main course. What can we say about our fish? To begin with, you can be assured that it is fresh and that we have selected only the finest to serve on our tables. Alternatively, if you prefer a meat dish we can recommend our T-bone steak. Our spare ribs are mouthwatering and have been cooked at a low temperature – tender and tasty.
And, of course, no meal is complete without its sweet. At Habitus it’s home-made desserts which are our speciality. How about a melted chocolate coulant with maple ice cream and pecan nuts? Or perhaps a creamy caramel dish or an oreo cake? No meal is complete without the wine to accompany it. Sharing a bottle of wine with family or friends is a treat that many of us have missed. We can tempt you with some classics such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero or you can try some locally produced wines specially served at your table. The regions of Valencia, Murcia and Alicante are renowned for their vineyards. Why not try a truly Costa Blanca wine made from Monastrell and Sirah grapes. When you have finished your meal – there’s no rush. You can relax and unwind on our patio and secluded terrace. To a background of gentle music our service of ‘customer first’ continues. And if you have something to celebrate? We have a very special VIP room where you can create those unforgettable moments on your important days. This room is private, air conditioned and you have your own dedicated waiter to make sure that you and your guests are perfectly catered for. You can even choose your own music to dine to. Perfect for birthdays, executive dining, bachelor or hen parties – we will decorate the room for your celebration.
And finally, we’d like to share with you why our restaurant was named ‘Habitus’. It comes from the Latin for ‘attitude’ and having a positive attitude is the foundation for everything that we do. Every member of staff is a crucial and valued member of our team. We all have one ambition – to create for you a delightful evening to remember.
30 - Discover the essence of Torrevieja
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The end of 2021 saw the pound to euro exchange rate trend higher, bolstered by the Bank of England’s (BoE) surprise move to
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How might the GBP/EUR exchange rate move in early 2022? raise interest rates, as well as by the UK government’s resistance to tightening Covid restrictions. This positive trend has persisted in early 2022, with the GBP/EUR exchange rate climbing past a key barrier of resistance to strike a 23-month high. But how might the pairing move through the remainder of the first quarter? Currencies Direct looks at what might influence the GBP/EUR exchange rate in early 2022. Potential catalysts for currency movement in Q1 While concerns over the Omicron variant continue to fade it seems safe to assume Covid developments will continue to influence GBP/EUR at the start of this year.
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Elsewhere, tensions between the EU and Russia and the threat of a war in Ukraine might also drag on the euro.
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How might the GBP/EUR exchange rate move in early 2022? - 33
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How many islands can you name in the Mediterranean Sea? Chances are you know of Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca – perhaps Formentera too? Barcoaventura would like to introduce you to the known and less wellknown secrets of the Pityusic Islands.
To approach one of these islands by boat is to see it as those first captains of the sea would have seen them. In many cases, little has changed. You can still approach some of these islands in such a way that the evidence of tourism is minimal and you can feel that you are discovering them for the very first time.
Explore the islands by boat You may never have heard of the Pityusic Islands but may well have visited at least one of them. This is the name given to the islands of the Mediterranean Sea. The word ‘pityá’ is actually a Greek word that means pine tree and is thought to date back to the time of Ancient Greece. Perhaps the most well-known of these islands is Ibiza, but the neighbouring island of Formentera is also on the ‘to visit’ list of many people. It’s not surprising either as its water and sand is likened to coastline in the Bahamas. Crystal clear water, clean, white sand – it’s a paradise that you’ll want to return to again and again. Of a similarly transparent blue and a treasure trove for divers and snorkellers, is Tabarca island. Just a short journey from Torrevieja, you can visit the island as part of a day trip or you can stay over in a boutique hotel if you prefer. Either way you’ll find a vacant cove, even at the height of the summer season. Another hidden secret of the Valencian Community are the Islas Columbretes which are considered to be an outstanding area of beauty protected as part of a natural park. They are volcanic islands and form one of the largest marine reserves n Spain. Visits to the islands are tightly controlled but there are opportunities to swim in its clear waters. But it’s impossible to fully introduce you to the delights and variety of the islands of the Mediterranean on paper. They have to be seen to be believed, and we believe the best way to reach them is by boat. The history, geography and pulse of these little islands is founded in their relationship with the sea. Long before people were flying, these islands were part of the regular route of seafarers, and sometimes pirates. Tabarca in particular, has a history of buccaneers and brigands and you can still see the evidence of this.
Of course, once you land there are plenty of opportunities to also enjoy the luxuries of the 21st century. You are not expected to catch your own fish, of course. Although you can if you want to. All the larger islands benefit from excellent seafood and fish restaurants and, the pleasures of Ibiza do not need to be repeated here. Some lucky people have their own boats or even supersized yachts from which they navigate around the islands. It is not uncommon to see a ‘listed’ yacht shored up just off the coast of Formentera. However, even their riches cannot buy exclusive rights to these beautiful shores and the coastline is accessible to everyone. If you’re looking for something special and want to explore by boat, Barcoaventura can provide your very own customised access to these islands and beyond. You don’t need to be a multimillionaire to benefit from your own crew who can take you and your party (big or small) to one of these very special locations. Barcoaventura was established in 2012 as a means of introducing people to the Pityusic Islands in the way that they should be approached – from the sea. We were already familiar with the uniqueness of each island – its people, its food and its special customs. Now we wanted to bring people there by boat. We organise all kinds of nautical events, routes and crossings to the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formantera, Tabarca and Columbretes. Our main base is in Torrevieja but we can set sail from other ports such as Denia and are happy to tailor our pick up and drop off points according to your preferences. We’re planning crossings now to the Greek Islands, Croatia, Sardinia, the Norwegian Fjords, Brazil and even Bali.
Each trip is an adventure and we can show you the most secret coves, spectacular sunsets and amazing marine fauna. We can take you diving in crystal clear waters or to practice more rigorous nautical sports if you prefer. We can provide music and mojitos for those who want to party, or a more relaxing and layed-back trip if you wish to disconnect. Not sure if we can accommodate your needs? Just ask. We provide exclusive and personalised attention, matching your ambitions and interests to the vast and varied resources of these truly beautiful islands.
34 - Explore the islands by boat
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A PARADISE ON THE COSTA BLANCA La Finca Resort is an irresistible invitation to enjoy your time and reconnect with your essence. A privileged space that faithfully represents Mediterranean identity with a five-star hotel, two of the best golf courses in Spain, spa, gym, tennis, High Performance Centre and paddle courts, and several restaurants to delight the most demanding palates. A dream environment where to rest and rejuvenate.
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La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf and gastronomy resort with double award win Luxury Spanish destination, La Finca Resort, has fought off its opposition to cap another year in style, being recognised as “Spain’s Leading Sports Resort” by the World Travel Awards and “Spain’s Best Golf Hotel” by the World Golf Awards for the second consecutive year. After claiming a double victory in 2019, the resort embarked on a multi-million Euro
Spain’s Leading Sports Resort by the World Travel Awards and Spain’s Best Golf Hotel by the World Golf Awards
renovation project which saw the golf courses and gastronomic offerings undergo major redevelopments. Often considered the Oscars of golf, these awards were created to recognise and highlight excellence within the golf tourism world. General Manager of La Finca Resort, Brendan Dwyer said: It is an honour to be recognised with these prestigious awards for the second year in a row. This achievement pays testament to the incredible work that has taken place at the resort over the last 18 months and the hard work that has been put in by all staff members. “We are extremely pleased with the results of our redevelopment. Since completion, the venue has moved from strength to strength and we are constantly striving towards improvement to solidify La Finca Resort’s position at the forefront of golf and gastronomic excellence in Spain.”
The venue has been a regular haven for golf enthusiasts due to its three prestigious golf courses, La Finca, Villamartin and Las Ramblas. All three layouts have undergone extensive enhancements in recent months with a number of green complexes relayed, a large-scale bunker renovation and the restoration of the 16th hole on the La Finca course. The five-star La Finca Hotel boasts 120 guest rooms, 40 of which have been recently renovated to ‘club level’ which entails a contemporary and sophisticated design. Also new is an exclusive hotel bar and terrace which will offer guests a leisurely environment to relax and dine throughout the day. Known for its gastronomical prowess, La Finca Resort has supplemented its dining offering with a signature paella and brasserie restaurant as well as a new Mexican and Italian fusion restaurant. The all-new La Finca Bodega Winery is ideal for group or individual wine tastings, offering up the very best local and international wines.
The hotel facilities include La Finca Spa as well as a brand-new sports complex which combines nutrition, sports and well-being. There has also been a renovation of the resort’s tennis and paddle areas which was key in cementing La Finca’s position as the leading Spanish sports resort.
La Finca Resort solidifies position as leading Spanish golf - 37
Torrevieja | C/ María Parodi, 8 - 3º • ES-03181 Torrevieja (Alicante) - Spain Alicante | Plaza Calvo Sotelo, 12 - 2º • ES-03001 Alicante - Spain Marbellla | Urb. la Alzambra, Local 3-1 • ES-29660 Marbella (Málaga) Spain
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