SPECIAL OFFER ÁBACOCLUB MEMBERS
By being a ÁbacoClub and Mapfre client you can enjoy the best conditions to acquire the SECURITAS DIRECT Alarm.
· Sentinel anti-jamming system with ambient quality control
· Control Panel with talk-listen module
· 2 Photo Detectors with image verification
· 1 Magnetic shock sensor with early detection
· 1 Intelligent key Reader
· 6 Encrypted keys
· 1 High power siren
· External deterrents
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
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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,
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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.
ÁbacoClub Magazine is a free magazine for ÁbacoClub members.
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ÁBACO ADVISERS
Ábaco Asesoría Legal y Fiscal, S.L.U.
María Parodi, 8 - 3º 03181 Torrevieja (Alicante) Spain
ÁbacoClub Magazine
Issue 10 - September 2024 magazine@abacoclub.es www.abacoclub.es
QuirónSalud Torrevieja
ÁbacoClub – Welcome!
Currencies Direct
Celebrating Oktoberfest in the Levante region
Moors and Christians in Benidorm
Torrevieja - Welcome to the tapas route
The top golf courses in the Alicante province
Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca
Lara CarsCar hire that you can trust
Mora SolutionsSmart Mobility, Smart Solar
Explore the islands by boat
The Medieval Market of Orihuela
Market guide of Torrevieja and surroundings
Welcome to our September issue of the ÁbacoClub magazine. As always, we’ve brought together a range of different articles aimed at helping you to enjoy Spain
ÁbacoClub –learning and enjoying
even more. It was a busy month of June for ÁbacoClub members with two opportunities to get together. We explain more about them and following the hot summer, we’re looking forward to more activities during the autumn months. Finally, a reminder – it will be Ábaco’s quarter of a century celebrations in October, onwards to the next 25!
The region of Valencia is by no means only sandy beaches and coastal resorts. Head inland and you can be in for a treat. This time, ÁbacoClub was off to Novelda to do some sightseeings and to find out more about this interesting Alicante town. Novelda, dates back to the Romans and Greeks and grew in reputation due to its quarries and mines. It is still a major centre of the marble industry and an ideal place for ÁbacoClub members to enjoy a beautiful day out.
If you have ever used saffron in your cooking you will know what a magical ingredient it is and we were delighted to be able to visit Verdú Cantó Saffron company in Novelda, to find out more about it. Juan Luis told us the fascinating story of how the company came to be. More than 130 years ago, in 1886, Mr.José Verdú set off on horseback to select the best batches of saffron and market them. Since then the company has gone from strength to strength being celebrated by the well-known chef María San José Román.
It wasn’t just culinary tips we received but also we could gaze in awe at the CasaMuseo Modernista. As its title suggests, this house is a monument to modernist decoration ad we were treated to examples of carved wood, ceiling paintings, murals and, of course, marble.
The Castillo de Mola was another treat on our itinerary. Located 360 metres above sea level it was originally an Islamic fortress but was subsequently taken over during the Christian conquest and was renovated during the 14th century. Our sightseeing was rounded off with a visit to the Santuario de Maria Magdalena.
After our busy but enjoyable day we were ready for our lunch at Casa Sicilia Bodegas.
The restaurant here is blessed by being situated amongst vineyards and we were treated to a tour of these and enjoyed some wine tasting. Altogether it was a fabulous day out and we really appreciated the hospitality of our hosts. We would thoroughly recommend a visit to Novelda if you haven’t been already. It is certainly a destination that we would love to visit again.
Our next event was more informative than relaxing. How much do you know about how to save a life? This time we were invited to Hospital Quiron in Torrevieja where Ron and Vera took us through an interesting and extremely important course on Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation. We were shown how to put our hands on a patient’s chest and to make compressions to the rhythm of ‘Staying Alive’! Who would have thought that this Bee Gees’ classic could have such potential as a life saver?
We also had opportunity to meet the Quirón personal advisor for ÁbacoClub members. If you are interested in how you can best benefit from what’s available at Hospital Quiron, then Evi Gielens is the person to speak to. She is your contact and can explain about the new agreement between the hospital and ÁbacoClub members. She will be happy to answer any questions you might have and can be contacted on evi. gielens@quironsalud.es.
So now you are up-to-date with our latest activities, it’s time to read the magazine. As usual we have tried to cover a range of topics and you can find out more about celebrating Oktoberfest in the Costa Blanca, the Moors and Christian re-enactments in Benidorm, the Medieval Market of Orihuela and the tapas route in Torrevieja. So there is no excuse for not knowing what to do in the next few months!
Finally, we hope you will join with us in celebrating 25 years of Ábaco Ádvisers
Yes, it’s Ábaco’s quarter of a century birthday in October and we are all excited to break open a bottle of bubbly and wish Ábaco Advisers another 25 years of helping people to make their dreams come true in Spain.
Scan this QR code to join.
October in Spain can be a beautiful time of year. Gone are the scorching months of July and August and the autumn has arrived but without the nip of winter. So, why not make the most of it? In case you have never heard of it before, we introduce you to the festival of Oktoberfest and some of the main towns in which you can celebrate it on the Costa Blanca.
‘But isn’t that a German tradition?’ you might be asking. The answer is ‘yes’, but all countries indulge in a little sharing of traditions nowadays and this one, after all, is a
from. There are two main beaches which are both suitable for families and on Fridays you can enjoy the local market situated adjacent to the beach.
October in Spain Celebrating Oktoberfest in the Levante region
great opportunity to eat, drink and celebrate – something that we very much like to do in Spain. More and more Spanish towns are taking up the opportunity to welcome in the autumn and take pleasure in some rousing music, cool refreshing beer and some sausages!
You will see it spelt in a number of different ways including with the German ‘Oktober’ or the English ‘October’. As something of a hybrid event, you can probably take your pick when it comes to the spelling but not when it comes to the main core activities you can expect from the event itself.
Although each area has adapted the festival to suit, generally you can expect to find a certain range of ‘non-negotiables’. On the menu you’ll find grilled mackerel, smoked fish and many different types of sausages, served with spices and pickles. You can try pork knuckles and krauti and frankfurters served with bread, mustard, horseradish and potato salad. There’s likely to be German beer to wash down the German food and you’ll also have opportunity to hear live music.
We’ve selected a few of the main towns that celebrate this festival in our region. We’d like to introduce you to them and some of their key attractions whilst also keeping you informed of their particular brand of Oktoberfest party.
Moraira
Moraira is a small coastal town in the north-eastern Costa Blanca. Although there is plenty of unspoilt countryside, this is no longer the small fishing village it once was. There’s a bustling marina and plenty of local shops and restaurants to choose
Moraira’s OktoberFest actually takes place in the public car park in a specially constructed marquee. The consumption of German beer rivals any of its competitors with more than 5,000 litres passing through the pumps. Of course, not on an empty stomach! There’s plenty of typical German food served up with live music to entertain participants too.
It’s a carefully planned celebration, organized by a committee together with the local town hall and is now considered to be an established annual event. In 2024 the fourth Oktoberfest party will be held between October 14th and 16th.
Calpe
If you’ve not visited Calpe then it really is time to make the detour and put it on your list of places visited. You’ll know you’re there when you spot the distinctive rock of Ifach which is part of a natural park of the same name. The rock is actually made out of limestone and although you may not want to go all the way to the top, the tourist centre and a 13th century medieval settlement (La Pobla d’Ifach) are well within most people’s capabilities.
If you prefer something a little more relaxing you can choose from one of Calpe’s glorious beaches or coves or take a gentle stroll along Calpe’s promenade. You might visit the fish auction at the port’s fish market or visit the salt flats and the Baños de la Reina which are roman ruins.
Here is the origin of what is today a peculiar tradition in the Levante region.
Then again, you might just prefer to take part in a very special Oktoberfest.
Calpe claims to be the original setting for the Oktoberfest in Spain. The event takes place over 11 days and dates back to 1988 when it was first organized by a group of German residents. Now, it is planned by Calpe Carnival Club and the proceeds help to finance the carnival that takes place in February. It is estimated that the event plays host to around 10,000 people who enjoy plenty of German products washed down with traditional German beer. For entertainment there are folklore shows, competitions and lots of German and Bavarian music.
There are certainly some interesting activities that you’re unlikely to find elsewhere or at any other time of year. One of the most popular competitions involves lifting up pitchers of beer and another consists of mastering the art of sawing tree trunks. Something for everyone! But it’s not all German food, drink and entertainment, a paella competition has cheekily become one of the activities on the annual menu.
La Nucia
Only 10km away from Benidorm, La Nucia is a perfect place to visit due to its quaint historic quarter with picturesque streets and whitewashed houses. There are some good walking routes to follow here with stunning scenery that are easily accessible and perfect for those wanting to enjoy the surrounding mountains.
However, don’t expect it to be quite so tranquil when it comes to October. In La Nucia, Oktoberfest also takes place in a car park – Estadi Olímpic Camilo Cano. There’s a huge tent with multiple rows of benches so that as many people as possible can take advantage of the 11 day event. You can enjoy wurst and sauerkraut whilst tapping away to the free entertainment provided by German folk groups. The celebration usually takes place in the afternoon and evening and is a total exploration of German culture and folklore.
Jávea
Xàbia or Jávea is a town that combines the best of what we love about the Costa Blanca. With its coves and beaches you are spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying the coastline. Its most famous beach is playa de Arenal which stretches to 300 metres of sand with lots of bars and restaurants close by too.
The town centre is also a definite place visit. Like many Spanish towns you will find
an old quarter with quaint streets and houses but also a more modern shopping area for those looking for some retail therapy. There are plenty of buildings to visit if you are prone to sightseeing including the gothic church of San Bartolome. The port area is a bustling place that still operates as a traditional fishing port and includes a promenade perfect for an after-meal stroll.
The town is host to plenty of fiestas and festivals across the year. In June families celebrate the ‘Fogueres de Sant Joan’ when people congregate on the beach around their bonfires to dispel the problems of the past and enter the spring. The Moors and Christians parade takes place in July and is quite a spectacle. You’ll need to get there early to secure a prime spot to watch the colourful processions pass by. Celebrations and music festivals continue into August and September and then just when you think the heat, passion and noise of the summer is over – there comes Oktoberfest.
In Jávea it takes place over three days on Friday 20th, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd October. It includes games and live music and is situated at Isla Bonita which is an open air entertainment area with restaurants and a swimming pool at an ideal location close to the beach.
Jávea’s celebration of this lively autumn festival, provides opportunity to try authentic German dishes and enjoy music played by a number of different DJs. Children aren’t forgotten either and there is entertainment for them too including bouncy castles and entertainers. In previous years, entry was free before 9.00pm with a 3€ charge after this time.
Some details of charging policy in 2024 have yet to be decided but what is certain is that you won’t go hungry! On the menu you can expect frankfurters, bratwurst and bockwurst sausages or why not try all three? For desert you can fill any space you have left with Appelstrudel!
Watch this space
Here, we have featured some of the most well-known towns in the Valencian region hosting this international festival. However, it’s fair to say that its popularity is gaining strength and new venues are popping up along the Costas each year. Look out in your own area to see if there’s likely to be one near you, or perhaps even start one yourself!
It’s a night out and you’re in the mood for a little exploration and trying something different. Then why not join in with Torrevieja’s tapas route and discover some new places to eat and drink? This ruta de la tapa is ideal for bar hopping and tasting some traditional and novel Spanish dishes on the way. Organised over two weekends it has become a very popular event that widens your bar and restaurant horizons without spending a fortune. So, when is it taking place and how can you join in? Read our article to find out more.
The ruta de la tapa takes places usually twice a year. Spread over two weekends it’s organized by the Asociación de Hostelería de Torrevieja and applies to the food and drink served after midday.
Torrevieja Welcome to the tapas route
The prices vary but you can expect your drink and tapas to cost between 3€ and 6€ with a slightly higher charge if you’re going for a more up market drink than wine or beer. It doesn’t have to be an alcoholic drink either. You can choose from lemon, orange or cola options too.
The bars taking part are usually located round the centre of Torrevieja town so you can wander from one to another, sample their options and then move on. With a refreshing stroll in between that’s just enough to help clear your palette and find space for one tapas more!
Increasingly, over the years, there have been opportunities to take part in raffles and competitions too. The most recent ruta took place from 8th to 21st April and was entitled ‘A todo tren’ which means ‘Full speed ahead’. Prize draws included the opportunity to win a ham (the full Spanish version that you see in Carrefour), your own weight in beer and a mobile phone. You were asked to place a picture on the Facebook page TorreviejaGastronomica. This is a useful source of information, not only about tapas events in Torrevieja but other gastronomic opportunities.
You’ll notice, for example that croquettes are a favourite nibble and are often served free of charge with a drink in bars and restaurants. From 13th to 19th May Torrevieja hosted its own ‘Croquete ando’ which consisted of – yes you’ve guessed it – croquettes being served in 17 establishments around the town. These little novelty evenings encourage us all to try something different.
Another favourite gastronomic event is rice week (arroces de Torrevieja) which usually takes place in early spring. A selection of restaurants in the town serve a set menu that includes a starter, typical
rice dish, dessert and drink. The prices for this vary from anywhere between 22€ to 50€ and again, you can expect some imaginative dishes. What you can’t do with this event is move between restaurants – one meal will be quite enough!
Which was your favourite
A particular feature of the ruta is the opportunity to choose your own personal favourite from those you try. Each establishment offers two tapas – different ones being served each weekend (so four altogether). One of these is a traditional tapas that you might find on display across the year in hot tapas cases. Examples such as Russian salad (ensaladilla rusa) or meatballs (albóndigas con tomate) are perhaps given a slight tweak but stay pretty much authentic. The other is the bar’s own innovative creation. For example, creamed aubergine (berenjena a la crema) or ceviche with mango and avocado (ceviche de corvina con mango y aguacate).
To win one of the prize draws, you usually need to vote for your favourite tapas. The prizes for most innovative and most tasty traditional are coveted in the industry and there is plenty of competition so bars are determined to make sure that you enjoy their tapas most.
This ruta de la tapa is ideal for bar hopping and tasting some traditional and novel Spanish dishes on the way
Get ready for November
The next tapas event is planned for the 7th to 17th November 2024 but if you’re looking for some special tapas before then there is also the ‘International Tapas Day’ coming up on Saturday 28th September. Again, with this event, you can expect local bars and restaurants to be displaying their talents. Why not join in?
Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca
Come to know the most popular fiestas and festivals on the Costa Blanca from September 2024 to February 2025. Enjoy the Costa Blanca!
24th August 8th September 2024
JÁVEA
Fiestas de Loreto en Jávea “Mare de Déu de Loreto”
The Javea Fiesta “Festes Mare de Déu de Loreto” / Virgen de Loreto runs from the last week in August to the first week in September in Javea, Spain. The Celebration is in honour of the patron saint of the sea: “La Mare de Déu de Loreto”. During this fiesta the residents and visitors of Javea meet to celebrate their local identity, traditions, religion, neighborhood, sports, and culture. This is a vibrant, colourful, inclusive & creative fiesta that is open to the public and promotes respect for all.
1st September 9th September 2024
MORAIRA
Dolia Muestra de Enoturismo y Gastronomía (wine and food exhibition)
Dolia, the Wine and Gastronomy Fair that is held in the TeuladaMoraira auditorium, opens its doors in September to present in the Ruzafa market, a new edition of an event that is committed to quality and the importance of preserving the value of the region’s cultural and natural heritage, through its wine and its gastronomy.
5th September 2023
CALPE
Romería Virgen del Rocío (Virgen del Rocío Pilgrimage)
The House of Andalusia in Calpe
is one of the biggest in Spain, and its “Hermandad Rociera”, the “Fellowship of the Pilgrimage”, one of the most active. During the second fortnight of Septemberevery year since 1996 - it organizes a highly successful “Romería a la Virgin del Rocío” in Calpe, a “Pilgrimage to worship the Virgin of the Rocio”.
15th September
17th September 2024
BENISSA
Alternative Fair in Benissa: Natural balance.
If you believe in a better life through being in contact with nature and in developing your mind, then Benissa’s Alternative Fair is for you. It is expected to take place around the end of September.
22nd September
26th September 2024
BENISSA
Patron Saint and Moors and Christians Festivals in Altea.
The fourth weekend in September, is when Altea celebrates its festivities in honour of the Most Holy Christ of the Sanctuary (el “Sagrario” in Spanish), alongside the Moors and Christians festivities in honour of Saint Blas, the Town’s Patron Saint. These festivities have been held since 1979 and include proclamations, missions, reveilles and parades.
29th September
30th September 2024
BENIDORM
Iberia Music Festival: The best of spanish pop-rock.
Take two days with more than 20 hours of the best national pop and rock of recent decades, 150,000 watts of sound and a stage that grows in size each year and you have the next edition of Benidorm’s Iberia Festival.
30th September
1st October 2024
BENISSA
Biennial Festival of Culture in Benissa.
Benissa welcomes the autumn in a very special way, when multiculturalism and new arrivals join together to celebrate the Benissa Cultural Festival. 12 countries are represented in this festival that takes place every two years on the first weekend in October. The objective is to show off the different cultures that live in harmony in Benissa. A trip around
the world without leaving home.
30th September
2nd October 2024
BENIDORM
Moors and Christians in Benidorm: invasion of Levante beach.
The invasion of the Levante beach by the army of the Crescent Moon begins a battle that is only the start of four days of fighting between Moors and Christians. The grand entrance, the parades, the mission or the parley and the disembarkation are the most representative activities during the Moors and Christians festival in Benidorm, a typical Benidorm festival in which music and fireworks are also to the fore.
7th October 8th October 2024
ALTEA
EcoAltea Alternative fair
A meeting point for artisans, visitors and neighbors, who have the opportunity to attend lectures, workshops and activities related to health, organic farming, ethical banking.
7th October 10th October 2024
CALPE
Oktoberfesters in Calpe: The Spanish-style beer festival.
One of Calpe most emblematic and entertaining festivities takes place over eleven days in October: the Oktoberfest. In actual fact, the Calpe Oktoberfest holds the distinction of being the largest and also the first such event ever to be held in our country. Back in 1988, a group of German residents in Calpe got together.
8th October 2024
MORAIRA Gourmet Race in Moraira.
An original and enjoyable regatta is held in the Moraira Marina in October, one in which many end up licking their fingers - the Gourmet Race Week Teulada Moraira.
14th October 16th October 2024
MORAIRA Oktoberfest in Moraira.
At the beginning of October, just at the start of the autumn, Moraira takes on a distinctly German feel as it celebrates its very own Oktoberfest. Nowadays, this extremely popular and traditional
the great Parade are the highlights
7th November
17th November 2024
TORREVIEJA
Ruta de la Tapa Torrevieja.
Of course you will discover new bars and restaurants in the town and if you have a little luck, you can win the cell phone raffled by the Hotel Association of Torrevieja.
18th November
11th December 2024
TORREVIEJA
Patron Saint festivities in honour of “La Purísima Concepción” of Torrevieja.
The commitment to a festival focused on all audiences, but with special care for children and their families, mark a program with a hundred events.
27th January 2025
3th February 2025
BENIDORM
Tapas Benidorm Fest.
The second fortnight of October is
Coinciding with World Tourism Day on the 27th of September, Benidorm will be holding its “Tapas Week”, a successful event that in previous years has attracted numerous participants. Thanks to this promotion and during the seven days of its duration, anyone can try the best morsels on offer in lots of restaurants for only 2€.
31st January 2025
2nd February 2025
ORIHUELA
Orihuela Medieval.
Throughout this weekend, attendees have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of shows and recreational activities suitable for all ages.
The offer includes music, dances, puppets, theatrical animations, workshops of ancient crafts. In addition, the market has numerous artisan stalls, where visitors can enjoy the aroma of spices and incense and discover a variety of foods for all tastes. Is currently the largest Medieval Market in Spain.
10th February 2025
XALÓ
Land Market in Xaló.
On the first Saturday of every month, the Jalón Town Square hosts its traditional earth market, which strives to make the region’s traditional home-made foodstuffs more appreciated: marmalades, sweets, cheese, fruit and vegetables, meat products…
Festivals and popular fiestas on the Costa Blanca -
We all know that doing the best for mother earth isn’t the job of one person. However, most of us feel the need to do something and, hopefully, at the same time improve life for ourselves. In this article we have two sugges-
Mora Solutions Smart Mobility Smart Solar
tions for ways in which you can make an effective contribution to protecting the environment whilst also saving money.
So, you are already a regular visitor to the bottle bank and carefully sort your rubbish. Well done – we’re proud of you. But most people are looking for more ways to both save money and help the planet but just aren’t sure what direction their efforts should take. If this sounds like you then we have two suggestions for you to put on your list of ‘to dos’.
Invest in electric
That is, when it comes to cars. We all know the disastrous impact of using fossil fuels as a source of energy. Firstly, they are not replaceable and have an expiry date. Secondly, they release dangerous carbon emissions into the environment with the result that we are experiencing global warming. But there is a general feeling of angst for many people when it comes to replacing their diesel or petrol motor with one that relies on electricity or is a hybrid of both.
Concerns include – is this a fad that will simply disappear in a few years’ time? Will my car still be as powerful and nippy as I’m used to? Will I be able to find sufficient charging points to be able to get from A to B? Now, to answer these questions, let’s begin with the fact that electric cars have actually been around for a while, with the first electric car making its debut in 1890. Whilst it’s true that following this there were a few stops and starts and it wasn’t until the late 1990s that they truly became established, I think we can see that they’re not a flash in the pan.
Electric vehicle users who charge at Iberdrola stations do so with 100% clean energy, with a renewable Guarantee of Origin (GdO) certificate. Likewise, they have green certification from GAdvisory, which has issued its second party opinion.
Iberdrola currently has more than 7,000 charging points, increasing by more than one hundred new chargers per month during 2023. The main objective is to be able to install 110,000 high-efficiency charging points by 2024. The total investment is budgeted at 150 million euros and It will serve to help electric cars have a charger every less than the current 50 kilometers.
Worried about how you charge your car and ensure that it’s always roadworthy and ready for the journey? Mora Solutions – affiliated to Iberdrola – are happy to talk to you about the installation of an electricity charging point for your car. This is no hard sell but information you can trust from people who know about electricity. They will provide you with everything you need to charge your electric vehicle’s battery. There is also a Smart Mobility app from which you can control the entire charging process.
Invest in solar
Solar power had a rocky start in Spain but we are delighted to announce that some of the disadvantages that we saw with the so-called ‘sun tax’ are now truly dead and buried. Solar power counts as an efficient way of saving money and is also good for the planet. Some people are hesitant because they don’t know who to ask and are put off by the initial cost.
Don’t be. To begin with we can recommend Mora Solutions to provide advice on the viability and installation of solar panels. Mora Solutions are keen to point out that you can make a possible saving of up to 70% - a saving that we could all do with during this time of increasing prices for basic items.
Smart Solar is the name of their solar solution ensuring that solar panels installed at your property save you money. The panels can be placed on the roof of your house and can generate the electricity you need. Mora Solutions can also help you to search out the best way of financing your new panels and can help you manage any subsidies you receive.
Whatever your home is, at Mora Solutions we offer a complete solution that adapts to you with the peace of mind and guarantee of Iberdrola.
• Personalized study for your home.
• Custom installation.
• Process management: licenses, authorizations...
• Information on available grants.
• Financing based on your needs.
We are all guilty of thinking too long about whether our little bit will make a big difference in the long run. Whatever your motivation, these two options provide you with not only a sustainable commitment to securing a healthy planet for future generations but also saving you money now. What are you waiting for?
As a member of AbacoClub you have privileged access to Mora Solutions’ quality service: online.abaco-asesores.com/en/abacoclub/ personal-energy-advisor-who-will-optimizeyour-current-electricity-contract
Orihuela The Medieval Market
Find yourself wandering in narrow streets between ancient stone buildings, smelling the incense of candles and watching street entertainers. You could have been transported back centuries if it wasn’t that you can see the odd car in the distance and spy some, who are more fixed on their mobile phones than on the market stalls and traders. Welcome to Orihuela medieval market, let’s guide you around.
Medieval markets are now a popular, regular event in many Spanish towns. Held in parks, car parks and the streets themselves, they are a place to browse and, to be fair, probably buy items that you never would otherwise. There’s usually a selection of street food to keep up your energy levels as you wander through the stalls and find your pocket money diminishing.
That said, the medieval market of Orihuela has to be one of the best and most popular in the region. Orihuela itself commands a lengthy and varied history. It is, in fact, the central administrative area for Orihuela Costa too. You can be forgiven for getting the two confused name wise but not in appearance.
Orihuela Costa is a length of coast that boasts some fabulous blue flag beaches and the usual tourist centres with restaurants and bars. Venture inland to Orihuela itself and you are immersed in a traditional Spanish city which perhaps casts a rather snooty eye on its more commercial neighbour. However, you’ll find many Costa residents flooding to the market to enjoy the contrast with their namesake neighbour.
How it all started
Believe it or not, the fair dates back to 1310 when it was originally given the go ahead by King Alfonso X El Sabio. In those days it was less of a tourist attraction and more of an opportunity for local tradespeople to buy and sell and advertise their wares. There were certain concessions for those attending –they didn’t have to pay tolls and were allowed to keep their profits.
Markets were part of everyday life but fairs were an annual event which lasted several days and attracted the participation of craftsmen and sellers from other areas as well as
the home town. These tradespeople would travel several days for the opportunity to take part in as grand event as the Orihuela fair.
The market in modern times
Now, the medieval market is held at the beginning of February each year – just as the Spanish winter is receding and residents look forward to the brighter spring months ahead. It lasts for three days and is one of the largest medieval markets in Spain. In fact, over half a million visitors are said to flood its ancient streets and enjoy the entertainment, market stalls and atmosphere.
There is plenty to see. Step back into the middle ages and take time to linger in Orihuela’s narrow streets. Set in the oldest part of the town you can be forgiven for thinking that you’ve travelled back in time as you gaze at the backdrop of ancient buildings. Altogether there are around 400 market stalls set up throughout the streets, covering an area of around 4 kilometres.
It’s an artistic event too. The market traders dress up in medieval costumes and the stalls sport awnings reminiscent of a previous age. Entertainment is around every corner with mock battle scenes and medieval tournaments. It is worthwhile checking out the day’s itinerary and building your tour around the shows that you want to see. There are also more impromptu demonstrations of street entertainment with, for example, stilt walking and puppet shows that children, in particular, will enjoy. Exhibitions of weapons, armour and falconry provide an authentic taste of times long gone.
It’s not just a case of window shopping, there are also lots of activities for you to try out as well as watch. There are workshops demonstrating special crafts and skills that you might have thought were no longer practised. You can watch skilled craftsmen carving wood and stone and making their mark with calligraphy and cartography.
You won’t go hungry either. There are plenty of opportunities to buy fruit and vegetables and bakery products and if you fancy something warm to eat you can choose from the cooked food stalls, selections of pig roasts, paella and there’s plenty of beer to wash it down.
The three zones
The market is in fact divided into three areas that represent the feuds of Spain’s past. As you might expect, there is a Christian and Arab zone following on from the tradition of Moors and Christians which is such as feature of the summer fiestas. In addition, there is a leisure zone and maps are provided which show the different areas and a list of the entertainment and associations you can find there.
However, this is only a very brief outline of the rich variety of spectacle that you can see. Be prepared for acrobats and drummers, camels and donkeys, belly dancers and perhaps, you’ll even catch site of a dragon!
The centre of it all is probably the Plaza de Santiago where the first zone extends to Calle Colón. In 2024 this area played host to a dragon village, a bird of prey display and other children’s games and workshops. Zone two extends from Calle Mayor to Plaza de Santa Lucía and includes a children’s play area in Plaza del Salvador. The Arab section is in the third zone from Plaza Santa Lucía to Santo Domingo. In 2024, there was a tournament held here as well as plenty of live music and dance performances.
Medieval market 2025
The 2025 medieval market will be held starting on 31st January and is an important birthday for the market as it reaches its quarter of a century – 25 years old!
On a practical note, if you are coming by car you will need to park in one of the specially designated parking areas. The streets of the town are not conducive to parking and after all, they are full of market stalls!
There are also free buses available from Orihuela Costa’s Playa Flamenca over the three days, which removes any worry about where you left the car. In order to take advantage of this you need to make a reservation on the official website. These buses are available each day setting off at 11am in the morning and leaving Orihuela at 6.00pm. If you are planning to visit the market then why not make it into an exploration of the ancient town of Orihuela too.
A brief history of Orihuela
In 1969 the town of Orihuela was declared an Historic and Artistic Conservation Area because of its outstanding culture, history and tradition. Orihuela is a settlement that can be traced back 20,000 years! Of course, most of what we can see nowadays has its origins
much later than that and there is evidence of people from different parts of Spain as well as overseas, making their contribution to the culture of this interesting and charismatic town.
Back to the beginning and perhaps particularly notable was the Roman influence on the area. The Romans were responsible for naming and developing Orihuela or ‘Orcelis’ but were then ousted by the Byzantinians and later Visigoths. In 711 it was the Moors and Berbers that took charge and a truce was arrived at that allowed relative peace for a time. By now Orihuela was ‘Uryula’ and was in fact a centre for Arabic culture.
If you visit the Museum of La Muralla you can still see parts of the city walls that have survived from this period. Evidence of the Moorish influence include the palmeral which is thought to go back 1,000 years and is the second largest that remains in Spain. It was the Moors who were responsible for the construction of the narrow streets that you can see today and explore during the medieval market.
The next stage in its history was spearheaded by the Christian force of the Reconquist and King Alfonso. If you want to experience some of these turbulent times then come to a Moors and Christians festival and parade where you will see parts of the story played out. In around 1300 Orihuela became perhaps the second most important city in Valencia and was a sought after location for military and religious leaders. From this period you can still see the church of Santa Justa and Santa Rufina with its outstanding Gothic tower.
Internal fighting continued with feuds between the kings of Castile and Aragón but eventually Orihuela was declared a city in September 1437. At this point there were about 10,000 inhabitants, most of whom were Christian and Orihuela benefitted from a period of stability until 1521 when division between local powers again created havoc in the city.
The subsequent years saw changing fortunes for Orihuela. Outbreaks of the plague had an impact on the population between 1648 and 1678 and up to relatively recently, part of what had been Orihuela land became designated as their own individual towns with their own governance. Both Guardamar del Segura and Pilar de la Horadada had originally been governed by Orihuela.
In the early 18th century its fortunes began to look up with the development of the silk industry. This led to a building bonanza and many iconic monuments were erected during this period including the convents and palaces. What was less fortunate in its dura-
bility was the local language of Valenciano which completely disappeared from official documents around this time.
At the end of the 18th century Torrevieja was split from Orihuela which meant that the city council no longer had control of the salt mining industry there. La Mata lake retained its title but the lake of Orihuela became the lake of Torrevieja instead. The city was demoralized following the loss of many of its inhabitants due to warfare and subsequently cholera (1834) and flooding (Riada de Santa Teresa).
It was the poet Miguel Hernández who brought fame back to the city once more and with the expansion of tourism in the coastal areas the population found itself again on the way up. Whilst Orihuela Costa continues to grow and offers its own blend of internationalism, Orihuela itself retains its historical roots, much of which is on full show during the medieval market.
Buildings to stop by
Combine your medieval market adventure by taking a look at some of its city centre attractions. To begin with, take note of the River Segura and the Viejo de Poniente bridge. Take in the medieval buildings of Las Santas Justa y Rufina and the Catedral del Salvador y Santa Maria.
The Palacio Episcopal de Orihuela is also worth visiting and you might want to pause and take a break in the Santa Lucia Square. If you have time you might also like to find out more about Miguel Hernández by visiting the museum which is housed where he used to live.
The Colegio Diocesano Santo Domingo is an incredible building with many interesting architectural features. Work started here in the 16th century on a convent and college and later it became a university. Of particular interest is the blend of different periods that you can identify including baroque and renaissance.
Other buildings that are recommended for a visit include the Museo de la Muralla. as mentioned previously, it includes parts of the original Roman city walls. More information about places of interest and other attractions locally can be found at the Oficina de Turismo.
So, we hope to have convinced you that whether you live 5 minutes or 5 hours away, a visit to Orihuela’s Medieval market is well worth the trouble, not only for the atmosphere, activities and experience but also to see some of the foundations and fabric that make Orihuela such a noteworthy city in Spain.
Quirónsalud Torrevieja
Quirónsalud Torrevieja, the first private hospital in Alicante to have an Advanced Robotic Surgery Unit.
The goal is to offer your patients more precise surgeries, with less postoperative pain and a much faster recovery than the rest of the surgical techniques.
The Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital has launched the first Advanced Robotic Surgery Unit in the private health sector in the province of Alicante, incorporating the most advanced model of Da Vinci robot. The hospital has extensive experience in robotic surgery, since 15 years ago it was one of the pioneering hospitals in Spain in implementing and training its surgeons in the use of this technology.
The Da Vinci robotic surgical system is designed to offer minimally invasive surgery of the highest level in the approach of complex pathologies in the area of specialties such as Urology, General and Digestive System Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Oncological Surgery and Gynaecological Surgery.
The robotic surgical system has a camera arm and 3 mechanical arms, and surgical instruments mounted on them that are controlled by the surgeon while sitting in front of a computer console within the operating room itself.
The system also has a vision tower that processes the image, providing a real, magnified and 3D view of the surgical field that allows the surgeon to perform more complex procedures with greater precision, flexibility and control compared to conventional techniques.
As Dr. Rosa Mª Cañón, medical director of the Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, points out, “the incorporation of the Da Vinci robotic system represents a great qualitative advance in the hospital’s surgical services, thanks to which we can offer the best quality of care and experience to our patients, who will benefit from less invasive surgeries with less risk of side effects such as infection, minimal scarring and shorter admissions”.
Urological Robotic Surgery in Alicante
Thanks to the Da Vinci robotic surgery system, Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital offers the best treatment and results for patients with prostate cancer who require a radical prostatectomy. “To perform it,” explains Dr. Sven Petry, head of the Urology Service at the Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, “only small incisions in the skin of 0.5 to 1 cm in length are necessary through which we can perform, guided by the high-definition camera, the complete removal of the prostate with an optimal level of precision.”
Regarding the many advantages offered by robotic urological surgery, Dr. Sven Petry highlights a greater recovery of urinary continence, whose success rates thanks to the robot reach 97% compared to 88%, as well as a complete recovery from erectile dysfunction of traditional surgery. Another benefit is the rapid recovery of the patient who, after discharge, can lead a completely normal life, four weeks after the intervention.
The specialist in urological robotic surgery at Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja also recommends this technique for the treatment of bladder cancer, kidney cancer or genital prolapse due to its excellent results and postoperative advantages.
Advanced Robotic Surgery for Malignant and Benign Pathologies
The Da Vinci robotic surgery system has proven to be the best instrument for the multidisciplinary treatment of benign or malignant pathologies. These surgeries include hepatobiliary surgery, oesophagealgastric surgery, colorectal surgery, metabolic surgery for obesity and abdominal wall surgery.
Within this section of robotic surgery, Dr. Pedro Bretcha, head of the General Surgery and Digestive System Service at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, highlights the results achieved by this technique in the treatment of colorectal cancer. As Dr. Bretcha explains, “thanks to robotic surgery in the treatment of colorectal cancer, we can perform a much more precise resection of the tumour while maintaining the principles of proper cancer surgery and preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. In addition
to achieving less blood loss, a lower risk of infections due to the small size of the incisions made, as well as less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay and a quick return to daily activities.”
Better preservation of pelvic structures thanks to robotic surgery
Another area in which robotic surgery has proven to be the best ally is in the surgical treatment of gynaecological pathologies such as hysterectomy, myomectomy, endometriosis or genital prolapse, in which it stands out “for facilitating more precious movements in narrow and delicate areas such as those that make up the female sexual and reproductive system”. says Dr. Rodolfo Martín Díaz, head of the Gynaecology Service at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital. The benefits of gynaecologic robotic surgery include, but are not limited to, better preservation of pelvic structures, a very significant improvement in urinary incontinence and bowel and bladder control, as well as a much earlier return to daily activities.
Thoracic surgeries with less hospitalisation thanks to the Da Vinci
Thanks to the minimally invasive approach assisted with Da Vinci robotic surgery, interventions that previously required long hospitalisations for patients with pulmonary pathology can be performed on an almost outpatient basis, with hospital discharge in just 48 hours. “In addition,” says Dr. José Belda, head of the Thoracic Surgery Service at Quirónsalud Torrevieja, “the great precision of the Da Vinci’s interventions allows the treatment of benign and malignant pulmonary pathologies such as lung cancer, including lobectomies and sublobar resections, all without any detriment to oncological radicality”. Other advantages pointed out by the Quirónsalud Torrevieja specialist are less blood loss and a lower risk of postoperative infections.
Learn more about robotic oncology surgery
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If you’re retiring in Spain, chances are you’ll need to transfer your pension, either in full or as monthly payments.
Saving money when transferring your pension to Spain
There are a few different ways to achieve this and finding the right method for you can save you significant time and money.
Your pension options
Broadly speaking, there are two main routes you can take. Note that it’s always best to speak to a pensions expert who specialises in moving pensions overseas, as they’ll be able to offer you tailored advice.
The initial option involves transferring your pension into a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). Opting for a QROPS can yield potential tax advantages, and it allows you to manage your pension in a currency of your choosing. However, it’s important to note that certain pensions, such as UK state pensions, are not eligible for transfer to a QROPS.
Moreover, while you can currently transfer pensions into EU or European Economic Area (EEA) QROPS without tax implications, transferring funds outside this zone may incur a 25% Overseas Transfer Charge (OTC) from the UK. Although there have been no changes to this regulation thus far, there is a chance that EU/EEA QROPS might also be subject to this charge in the future.
Alternatively, you can keep your pension in the UK and transfer the funds overseas, typically on a monthly basis. The downside here is that fluctuations in the exchange rate can affect how much you receive for each transfer. Additionally, some providers charge transfer fees, which diminish your funds. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect against currency volatility and get the most out of your money transfers.
Cost-efficient overseas transfers
If you want or need to keep your pension in the UK, then you’ll need to find a cost-efficient way of moving that money to Spain, as fluctuations in the currency market can have a big impact on your funds.
For instance, in the second half of 2023
GBP/EUR moved between a high of €1.17 and a low of around €1.14. Say you’re transferring £3,000 a month from your UK pension to Spain, that three-cent difference amounts to a €90 fall in your monthly income. Additionally, some banks charge transfer fees of up to £30 per transaction, further chipping away at your money.
The best way to get the most from your overseas transfers is to work with a specialist currency provider. With competitive exchange rates and expert guidance, they can help you to navigate market volatility while getting a great deal on your transfers. That means you’ll have more certainty when budgeting and more money in your pocket.
Just ensure you are working with an EU licenced currency provider like Currencies Direct. In a post-Brexit world, your money could be at risk if you use an unregulated provider.
Why Currencies Direct?
Currencies Direct offers all of the above –excellent exchange rates, expert support, and a range of transfer options. We also have an exclusive deal with CaixaBank –one of Spain’s largest banks – which means you’ll never pay receiving charges in any Spanish bank.
Spanish banks tend to charge a 1% fee for processing large payments and anywhere from 0.75% to 1.5% for raising a banker’s draft. When making regular payments this can quickly add up.
With Currencies Direct, you’ll also get a dedicated Account Manager – a friendly currency expert whose job it is to help you make the most of your money. They’ll work hard to understand you and your unique situation, providing guidance and support.
We’re one of the longest-standing currency specialists in Europe, having helped over 500,000 happy customers since 1996. We pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service, having won MoneyAge’s ‘Money Transfer Provider of the Year’ award four times and holding an Excellent rating on Trustpilot, with thousands of five-star reviews.
As a Currencies Direct client, you can speak to your Account Manager over the phone, move money 24/7 online, or even pop into one of our 20+ local branches scattered across Spain and speak to a currency expert face to face.
Create a free account today – it only takes a couple of minutes – and talk through your needs with one of our friendly currency experts.
Benidorm Moors and Christians
If you know anything about Spain you know that it has a rich heritage of mixing different cultures. Over thousands of years it has been visited and invaded by different nationalities – some of whom have stayed for centuries and left their mark.
Perhaps the most significant of these has been the Moors or Moros. Invading Spain from Africa they brought with them not only the Muslim religion but also incredible skills and new knowledge that, at times, sat comfortably with those already existing here. However, there were also times of conflict and it is these periods that the processions and parades of the Moors and Christians represent.
This is a story that spans the 8th to the 15th century and can be seen in the bricks and mortar of many religious buildings – a mixture of Muslim and Christian traditions with minarets converted to steeples and vice versa. Eventually the Reconquista saw the Christians gain the upper hand, but the Muslim legacy lives on and we are reminded in celebrations such as this.
Re-enactments of these tumultuous times can be seen in many towns across the Valencian community during the summer and early autumn period. The tradition is well-established and provides entertainment as well as the opportunity to dress up and engage in a little friendly warfare. You can expect an array of costumes as the ‘comparsas’ or groups and clubs show off the results of their artistry and fundraising over the previous year.
Wherever your base is in this region, you can expect there to be a Moors and Christians event nearby at some point during the summer. As with many Spanish traditions, the daytime and evening activities continue long into the night with music, feasting and carnival type celebrations that can involve the whole family.
The Moors and Christians in Benidorm
The town of Benidorm needs no introduction but whatever associations you link with this classic tourist town, you’re unlikely to immediately think of processions and parades. Especially one so rooted in Spanish tradition as the Moors and Christians.
So why is it so special here? Every town
will boast about the supremacy of at least one of its annual traditions and we’re not maintaining that the Moors and Christians celebrations in Benidorm are the only ones worth a look at. Far from it. However, it really is worth a visit if you want some theatre without venturing inside.
This year the event will be held from 30th September to the 2nd October - just as the heat of the summer is beginning to ebb a little. Over these few days you can see displayed the efforts of contributors who have been planning for months to put on a show like no other. This year it is down to Verónica Rebelles Sellés and Arnau Brotons Ribelles to represent the Moorish King and Queen and Antonio Jesús Díaz Serrano and Marifé Montoya who will head up the Christian side.
Over the three days the filàs or battalions parade through the town and take part in mock battles. They are divided into the Bando Moro and the Bando Cristiano with each group having a strict order with which they present themselves. It’s fundamentally a story which is retold through the events of the next few days and begins with a celebratory meal.
The first major performance is staged on Benidorm’s famous Levante beach. Usually home to sunworshippers, the beach comes alive with a pirate attack. The Moors have arrived and Christian troops have been notified by the Viceroy of Valencia. Their job – to repel the attack. After a heated conversation the exchange becomes warfare but the bandits are successfully resisted and Benidorm remains intact. The marauders withdraw but the fight isn’t over.
On the following day the two sides meet again, starting in the Plaza de la Hispanidad. This is a spectacular parade as the Moor and Christian troops march through the main streets of the town and approach the castle. Here the Parliament of Peace takes place as the Christian warden of the castle argues with the Prince of Kairuán about the castle’s legitimate owner.
Eventually agreement is reached that the castle is a Christian fortress and the Moors are persuaded to withdraw peacefully. Flowers are offered to San Jaime Apóstol (Patron of the Association of Moors and Christians of Benidorm) and this is followed
by a solemn mass. In the evening there is a final parade of floats with the traditional throwing of confetti and streamers and opportunity to reflect on the spectacle.
For those of you who are a little anxious about the aggressive and conflict- focussed nature of this festival, be reassured. Benidorm has done its best to emphasise the positive that came from the blend of Arab and Spanish and the mutually agreeable terms that they frequently did manage to come up with.
A slice of history
The Moors and Christians re-enactments may not be entirely accurate but they do reflect Spain’s chequered history of cultures and religions jostling for supremacy. Visit any historic Spanish town and you will find evidence of the mix of cultures but perhaps Córdoba and Granada best showcase the deep-rooted impact of the Moors in Spain.
You know where the Moors have been through the tell-tale signs such as the geometric patterns on walls that were once mosques. But it wasn’t only through their architecture that the Moors left their mark. They brought with them new strands of philosophy, methods of cultivation and scientific progress.
Whilst in Benidorm
Benidorm has staged its own ‘reconquista’ in recent years and has shed much of the image of simply being a tourist town with a New York skyline. Its skyscrapers provide an imposing welcome and you can only marvel at how this relatively small area of land can so casually provide for such an array of nationalities.
Look beyond the international hotels and you can find quaint, authentic Spanish streets that attract as many, if not more, tourists than their more raunchy neighbours. The beach front of Levante and Poniente are stunning and you are always only a hop, skip and a jump from somewhere to dine.
Slightly out of the town centre you have other attractions that mean every age in your family is catered for. Aqualandia is a celebrated water park and Terramitica continues to provide theme park attractions that will satisfy the thirst for thrills of your most adventurous family members.
So, whilst the Moors and Christians provides a very good reason for making Benidorm your destination at this time of year, don’t neglect its other attractions. With the peak summertime trade over but the warm weather remaining, you can enjoy a bustling promenade or retreat into its more laid back interior and relax.
ALICANTE
Comunidad Valenciana SPAIN
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.
The top golf courses in the Alicante province
The good weather, rich culture and history of Spain makes it the paradise of golf playing and unique for golf courses, If you plan to have a golf course package at Spain then Alicante province would be your perfect destination, the province is located in Valencia south east Spain, it has a stable sunny weather around the year, even in winter rains are less and temperatures have only slight changes, this lovely weather attracts golf players and champions from many countries, the easy transportation with plane or boat allows Alicante to be on the top.
The province of Alicante has wide natural green areas, magnificent beaches, this is why Golf players always choose Alicante for their courses, and there are about 18 golf courses available in Alicante for beginners and experienced players, what all you have to do is to choose a convenient course that goes along with your skills. In the province of Alicante there are many services and agencies to help you plan and book your golf course and to customize your favorite one according to your time schedule, your perfect package and your golfing skills at decent prices, I advise you to book your favorite slot at least six months in advance, some players pay their slot one year in advance to be able to play at any time in their preferable area, this is why in Alicante golf courses are always booked quickly. Here is list of the recommended top golf courses in the province of Alicante. They offer you high quality services rated from 4 to 5 stars; they usually have wide green areas suitable for all levels of players:
• Alenda Golf in Monforte del Cid (Alicante) began since 1999 beside the sea with 18 holes, the first 9 holes are for beginners they are easy and fun, the last 9 holes are for the more experienced players and it will upgrade your golfing skills, the lanes are wide and surrounded by carob
• La Sella Resort and Spa in Denia the resort is surrounded by Montgo natural park with 27 holes allows three different nine holes to test and upgrade your skills
• Hotel Alicante Golf it’s five minutes away from Alicante and is located beside the Mediterranean sea, it’s suitable for all levels of players but it’s a little bit crowded, it has 16 holes and it’s the main golf course for the city
• La Finca Resort in Algorfa it has three 18 holes started since 2002 the course is long and designed to challenge your skills so it usually attracts the best players from around the world, although it matches the beginners too, the resort is famous of natural running water and great natural green areas
• Fond del LIop Resort in Aspe witihn 20 km radius around Alicante, it has plenty of green spaces and every green space has its own unique features, the resort has 18 holes with an American layout
• Olive Nova Beach and Golf Resort in Oliva has 18 holes,if your stroke is good you will be rewarded and bad strokes will be excluded, has a high technical layout and a modern design, the resort hosted many official competitions
• Villaitana Resort is located on the hills and offers two golf courses: the 72 par Levante championship course, this course has an American style, perfect views and wide fairways on Benidorm, you will view the Mediterranean sea and the Sierra de Finestrat mountains, the other golf course is the 62 par Poniente executive course, in this course you will enjoy the same magnificent view of the sea and the mountains, the duration of this course is from three to four hours and you are done
• El Plantio Golf Resort, the resort is a 4 stars resort, you will enjoy an excellent service while getting a golf course that is perfect for different levels, it has 18 hole par 72 course and a bonus of 9 other hole course, this resort is near Alicante and has a forest of 45.000 trees which makes it perfect for playing at summer
• Las Colinas Golf and Country Club, this Resort is located in San Miguel de Salinas beside the Torrevieja beach holiday resort and the Zenia Boulevard shopping center, you can enjoy a full relaxing beach holiday while taking your golfing skills to the next level and enjoying a 71 par, 18 hole championship course in the vast green areas between the hills, please note that this course is considered one of the top 100 courses in Europe
• Bonalba Golf Resort and Spa in the Sierra of Bonalba it offers a charming nature, the resort has five lakes, wide fairways and bunkers, what makes this course different is it matches even people who start to play golf and are not very skillful yet
To get more than a golf course, book your slot today in the province of Alicante golf courses and enjoy cuisine, culture and weather, you will enjoy a royal service in resorts and country clubs while joining your favorite golf course.
The Natural Park of La Mata is a very special place. Caught between the two
Sopla Levante – wines that are out of this world
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 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 profit-making concern. If you want to check out the variety of grape and how the wine is produced – visit their website: rodriguezdevera.com/en/sopla-levante. There, they also share with you the various awards and recommendations that their wines have received.
Now, we’d like to introduce individually this selection of established and well-received wines.
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.
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 hand by ordering a bottle from their website and trying it for yourself. They even have 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
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 condi-
Lara Cars Car hire that you can trust
tions 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 dayto-day 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 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.
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.
Lara Cars has a large and varied fleet of vehicles, small and manageable for getting around the town, medium ones, family models, automatics, minivans and large capacity vehicles for larger groups. Every year we add and renovate vehicles within our fleet. We’re sure to have the car you are looking for.
Before each hire, all our cars go through exhaustive checks and a tune-up. This way, when you hire with Lara Cars you hire a car that is safe, economical and which meets your needs.
We focus on the needs of our clients during their holidays in the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions
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.
selected and prepared artichokes with clams – they are delicious.
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.
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.
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
When you have finished your meal – there’s no rush. You can relax and unwind on our patio and secluded terrace.
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.
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
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
well-known secrets of the Pityusic Islands. 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.
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,
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.
The most popular local markets of Torrevieja and surroundings
Torrevieja Market
Frequency: Every Friday (holidays or not).
Hours: Mornings
Location: Nueva Torrevieja Urbanization Points of Sale: 700
Torrevieja Handicraft Market
Frequency: Daily
Hours: All day Location: Paseo Marítimo de la Libertad Points of Sale: 300
If you are looking for markets in Torrevieja, there are two major markets. One is the Hippy Or craft market and you can find this on the promenade by the port. The other market you can find here is one of the biggest in Spain. In this market, you can easily grab some bargain as well for clothing, vegetables, fruit, leather, handbags, shoes, bedding, curtains, etc. There are a lot of weekly markets in Orihuela Costa.
La Mata Market
Frequency: Every Wednesday
Hours: Mornings Location: Canal del Acequión Points of Sale: 250
Orihuela Market
Frequency: Every Tuesday Hours: Mornings Location: Around Duque de Tamames street
Orihuela vegetable market
Frequency: Every Friday
Hours: Mornings Location: St. Lucia Square
Orihuela Costa Market
Frequency: Every Saturday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Behind the City Council of Orihuela Costa (Vía Park)
Guardamar del Segura Market
Frequency: Every Wednesday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Behind the church
Market of Moncayo in Campo de Guardamar
Frequency: Every Sunday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Guardamar Field. Alto del Moncayo. GuardamarMontesinos Highway Points of Sale: 1000
Albatera Market
Frequency: Every Thursday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Next to the Market Square
Algorfa Market
Frequency: Every Wednesday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C / Fernando de Rojas
Almoradí Market
Frequency: Every Saturday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Constitution Avenue Points of Sale: 600
Market guide of Torrevieja and surroundings
Benejúzar Market
Frequency: Every Friday Hours: Mornings Location: Plaza de España
Benferri Market
Frequency: Every Sunday Hours: Mornings
Location: C / Féliz Rodríquez de la Fuente, 25
Benijófar Market
Frequency: Every Tuesday Hours: Mornings
Location: C / Corazón de Jesús (Behind the Church)
Bigastro Market
Frequency: Every Thursday Hours: Mornings
Location: C / Purísima (next to the Church)
Market of Callosa de Segura
Frequency: Every Wednesday Hours: Mornings
Location: In front of the House of Culture
You can also see some in neighboring areas. You can find a wide range of goods in these markets. You can find food, shoes, and clothes. You should visit these markets and you will definitely find the best goods here.
Catral Market
Frequency: Every Saturday Hours: Mornings
Location: Behind the Church, next to the House of Culture.
Cox Market
Frequency: Every Monday Hours: Mornings Location: Glorieta Square
New Daya Market
Frequency: Every Tuesday Hours: Mornings Location: Next to the Town Hall
Daya Vieja Flea Market
Frequency: Every Friday Hours: Mornings
Location: Provincial Provincial Avenue
Dolores Market
Frequency: Every Friday Hours: Mornings
Location: Avda. Mayor José Rodríguez
Market of
Formentera del Segura
Frequency: Every Monday Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ Italia and C/ Joaquín Canales Mora
The most popular markets
Rocamora Farm Market
Frequency: Every Monday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ Obispo Rocamora
Jacarilla Market
Frequency: Every Friday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ Alicante (Next to the Town Hall)
Los Montesinos Market
Frequency: Every Friday
Hours: Afternoons
Location: Behind the promenade, next to the church
Pilar de la Horadada Market Frequency: Every Friday
Hours: Afternoons
Location: In front of the Town Hall
Rafal Market Frequency: Every Thursday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ El Molino and C/ Prince of Asturias (Behind the Town Hall)
Redován Market Frequency: Every Saturday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Town Hall Square
Rojales Market Frequency: Every Thursday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Avda. Justo Quesada (Fairground)
San Fulgencio Market Frequency: Every Tuesday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ Gabriel Miró (after passing the medical center)
These markets are considered as an alternative for all kinds of traditional trade. You can visit these markets if you are interested in buying decorative items, clothing, textiles, crafts, interior design, footwear, and garden products at affordable prices.
These markets are authentic Arab souks and they have reached great popularity among Spaniards and they are also popular among Europeans who visit Torrevieja.
La Marina Urbanization Market Frequency: Every Thursday and Sunday
Hours: Mornings
Location: C/ Justo Antonio Quesada
San Isidro Market Frequency: Every Wednesday
Hours: Mornings
Location: San Isidro-Albatera Highway
Market of San Miguel de Salinas Frequency: Every Wednesday
Hours: Mornings
Location: Juan XXIII Street and adjacent
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