Best Road Trips on Costa Blanca
Costa Blanca is one of the most picturesque coastlines in Spain, and it is best experienced from the road. Traveling by car gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves, scenic viewpoints, mountain villages, and unique natural areas that are difficult to reach by public transport. In a single day, you can swim in the warm sea, stroll through the narrow streets of historic whitewashed towns, and watch the sunset from a rocky promontory. The routes below are designed for independent travelers who wish to see the “real” Costa Blanca without strict tour schedules. All routes are conveniently aligned along the main roads N-332 and AP-7, as well as local routes leading to the mountains and natural parks. Each route includes approximate distance, road conditions, key stops, and tips for planning your trip. Most locations are easy to find in a navigator by name, but for your convenience, we have added short Google Maps links that can be inserted into a blog or opened directly on a phone.
Classic Route: Alicante – Santa Pola – Guardamar – Torrevieja
The perfect route for exploring the southern part of the coast. Here, you will encounter fishing towns, salt lakes, sandy dunes, and the famous Pink Lake of Torrevieja. The route is simple to navigate and suitable even for those who rarely drive, as most of the journey takes place along the well-maintained coastal road N-332 with wide shoulders.
Route Description
It is most convenient to start from Alicante. Depart early in the morning toward Santa Pola via N-332 to avoid traffic near the beaches. The first stop is the town of Santa Pola, with its old fortress and waterfront. The town center can be easily located – view on the map. Then head to Puerto de Santa Pola – a fishing port with a promenade, boats, and cafes along the waterfront. This is an ideal spot for a coffee while enjoying views of Tabarca Island and the lively atmosphere of the port – view on the map. The next stop is Gran Alacant and the viewpoints above Carabassí Beach, offering one of the best panoramas of Alicante Bay, the dunes, and Tabarca Island. Park at one of the lots near the beach and walk a few minutes to the viewpoints.
Key Stops
- Santa Pola – a 16th-century fortress, narrow streets of the old town, and family-friendly beaches. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the promenade; during the day, have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants by the port.
- Santa Pola Salt Lakes – on the way to Guardamar, you will pass lagoons where flocks of flamingos are often visible. Stop briefly at one of the observation points for photos.
- Guardamar del Segura – a natural park with pine forests and dunes. The main beach, Guardamar Playa, can be found here. Walk along the wooden paths through the dunes and swim on the wide sandy beach.
- Torrevieja – the final stop. Be sure to visit Laguna Rosa, the famous Pink Lake. A convenient spot for photos and a walk along the shore is here. Afterwards, return to the city center and end the day at Playa del Cura.
Practical Information
Distance: ~65 km one way; with detours to beaches and viewpoints, expect around 120–140 km in a day. Difficulty: Easy. Mostly flat sections. Suitable for family trips and first-time exploration of the region. Tip: In high season, plan beach stops before 11:00 or after 17:00, as parking near the sea fills up quickly, especially in Carabassí and Guardamar.
Mountain Route: Benidorm – Guadalest – Alcalá del Júcar
One of the most spectacular road trips in the Valencian Community. In a single day, you can see Benidorm’s skyscrapers from above, the fortress of Guadalest overlooking the emerald reservoir, and the Júcar River canyon with houses built into the cliffs.
Route Description
Start in Benidorm, where it is worth visiting the viewpoint La Cruz de Benidorm. The road winds through the Sierra Helada residential areas and ends at a small parking lot near the cross, offering a stunning view of the city and the bay. Convenient reference: La Cruz de Benidorm view on the map.
Next, take CV-70 up to the mountain village of Guadalest. Park at a paid lot at the entrance and explore the old town on foot. The fortress, museums, and reservoir views create the atmosphere of a small “mountain Belém.” Reference point: El Castell de Guadalest view on the map.
In the afternoon, continue inland toward Castilla-La Mancha, reaching Alcalá del Júcar. The road here is winding with hairpins, but well-paved. The village appears embedded in the canyon wall, with houses and viewpoints on multiple levels. The village center can be found here.
Highlights
- Mirador de la Cruz (Benidorm) – perfect for seeing the contrast between the modern resort and surrounding mountains. Best visited in the morning.
- Guadalest – besides the fortress, explore unique museums (miniatures, vintage cars) and enjoy the lake and valley views from viewpoints.
- Alcalá del Júcar – one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Walk from the river level to the upper quarter with the castle, explore cliffside bars carved into the rock.
Practical Information
Distance: ~155 km one way; a full circular day totals 250–300 km. Difficulty: Moderate. Many mountainous sections with turns and elevation changes. Beginners should drive slowly and use lower gears on descents. Tip: Bring a light windbreaker, as it can be noticeably cooler in the mountains, even in summer.
Coastal Cove Route: Calpe – Moraira – Jávea
The most “postcard-like” route along the coast: turquoise coves, the Peñón de Ifach, white houses on slopes, and winding coastal roads. This area is particularly popular with photographers and drone enthusiasts.
Route Description
Start in Calpe, walking at the base of the famous Peñón de Ifach. Nearby is the cove Cala el Racó, a small gravel beach with clear water and a path along the breakwater. Navigator reference: Cala el Racó, view on the map.
Drive along the coast to Moraira, stopping at scenic viewpoints. Visit Cala Moraig, one of the most striking coves on the coast, with high cliffs, an arch cave, and vivid blue water. Navigator reference: Cala del Moraig view on the map.
Finish in Jávea at Cabo de la Nao, with several viewpoints overlooking the sea and nearby Moraira. Main viewpoint: Cap de la Nau view on the map.
Key Stops
- Cala el Racó (Calpe) – small tranquil cove at the base of Peñón de Ifach, ideal for snorkeling.
- Moraira – charming port town with a promenade, a small castle, and beaches. Perfect for lunch with sea views.
- Cala Moraig – dramatic cliffs, pebble beach, and Cova dels Arcs cave. Arrive early during peak season due to limited parking.
- Cabo de la Nao (Jávea) – cliff-top viewpoint, visible Ibiza on clear days. Classic spot for sunsets and panoramic photos.
Practical Information
Distance: ~45 km straight, 80–100 km including detours. Difficulty: Easy to moderate due to winding access roads. Exercise caution on narrow sections. Tip: Bring coral shoes for safe entry into rocky coves.
Historic Route: Elche – Orihuela – Altea
This route combines three different worlds: the palm groves of Elche, the medieval center of Orihuela, and the white artistic streets of Altea by the sea. Ideal for travelers who want a cultural focus in addition to beaches.
Elche: City of Palms
Start in Elche, exploring the UNESCO-listed Palmeral de Elche. Walk the well-marked trails shaded by tall palms. Navigator reference: park entrance view on the map. Afterwards, visit the historic center, the Basilica of Santa María, and the Vinalopó River promenade.
Orihuela: Cathedrals and Old Town
Continue on A-7 or local roads to Orihuela. Main point: Orihuela Cathedral. Surrounding streets feature historic houses, monasteries, and small squares. Navigator: view on the map. Park nearby and explore on foot.
Altea: White Town of Artists
End at the sea in Altea. Explore Casco Antiguo, with white facades, blue church domes, and panoramic views. Navigator reference: Altea view on the map. Climb stairs to the church square. Evenings are vibrant with artists’ exhibitions, open terraces, and coastal lights.
Practical Information
Distance: ~110 km, depending on approach roads. Difficulty: Easy. Mostly highways and urban streets, minimal elevation changes. Tip: Combine with a beach day; stay overnight or arrive late afternoon to watch the sunset in the old town.
Panoramic Route: Benidorm – Calp – Fonts d’Algar
For nature lovers and those who enjoy mountain views and freshwater swimming. The route goes from the coast into the mountain valley toward waterfalls and natural pools.
Route Description
Start in Benidorm. If you missed La Cruz, visit again in the morning. Continue via CV-70 to Calp d’en Sarrià, a traditional mountain town surrounded by citrus and almond groves. End at Fonts d’Algar, a natural area with cascades, emerald pools, and well-maintained paths. Paid entrance; facilities include parking, cafes, and picnic areas. Navigator: Fonts d’Algar view on the map.
Highlights
- Calp d’en Sarrià – typical inland town with narrow streets and stone houses. Good for coffee and a short walk.
- Fonts d’Algar – the main attraction, ideal for cooling off after a mountain drive, especially spectacular in spring.
Practical Information
Distance: ~40 km one way; day trip around 100 km including return and detours. Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Winding but not extreme. Tip: Bring swimwear, suitable water shoes, and towels. Surfaces can be slippery; avoid smooth-soled sandals.
Viewpoint Route: Jávea – Dénia – Jávea
A loop for lovers of vistas and short walks. Every few kilometers, you will find viewpoints, cliffside trails, and sea panoramas.
Cap de Sant Antoni and Montgó Natural Park
From Jávea, ascend to Cap de Sant Antoni. Multiple parking lots and viewpoints near the lighthouse offer views of Dénia and the bay. Navigator: Área recreativa Cap de Sant Antoni view on the map. Surroundings are part of Montgó Natural Park (Parc Natural del Montgó), connecting Dénia and Jávea. Short marked treks are available; park reference here.
Dénia and Las Rotas Coastal Route
Descend to Dénia and Les Rotes, a scenic coastal area with rocky shores, small coves, and a walking path along the sea. Reference: Cala Les Rotes view on the map. Park and walk along the coast for a swim or aperitif at a seaside terrace.
Return to Jávea
Return via interior roads or the Montgó serpentine, depending on your time and desire to enjoy the views again. Optionally extend the route to Jávea port and old town for dinner on the promenade.
Practical Information
Distance: ~55 km, full day with stops. Difficulty: Easy to moderate due to mountain roads. Tip: Bring a windbreaker and closed shoes; stones can be slippery, and wind can be strong at viewpoints.
Tips for Driving on Costa Blanca
- Best time to travel: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer comfortable temperatures, warm sea, and lower traffic and prices.
- Roads and parking: Main routes: N-332 and AP-7. AP-7 is partially free and partially tolled, but saves time. In towns, look for blue zone and municipal parking, which is cheaper than private lots near beaches.
- Fuel: Gas stations on highways are usually more expensive than in towns. Fill up before long mountain trips.
- Mountain roads: Use lower gears on descents and avoid constant braking to save brakes and ensure safety.
- Navigation: Save key points in advance: viewpoints, beach parking, and park entrances. Short links maps.app.goo.gl are convenient to store and share.
- Car Rental. For these routes, a compact car of class B/C is sufficient. It is important to check whether full insurance without a deductible is included in the rental, and to photograph the vehicle upon pick-up and return.
- What to Bring. Sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, a light windbreaker for the evening, and comfortable footwear for short walks along trails and over rocky surfaces.
Conclusion
Costa Blanca is literally made for road trips. In just a few days behind the wheel, you can experience dozens of different landscapes: turquoise coves, whitewashed towns, palm groves, rocky headlands, mountain valleys, and waterfalls. Having a car gives you the freedom to stop wherever you wish: turn off to a small viewpoint, linger on a beach you like, or visit a tiny village along the way.
Save your routes, plan your day with extra time, and do not be afraid to improvise. Almost every turn along Costa Blanca reveals a new panorama, and the best memories often come not from the most famous spots, but from small stops along the way — at an unnamed cove, in a family-run mountain restaurant, or on a quiet viewpoint overlooking the sea.
