Finca Feliz Holiday home in Benissa, Costa Blanca, Spain

Holidays in Benissa, Costa Blanca, Spain

Introduction to Benissa

Benissa is a picturesque rustic village situated in the north of the Alicante province of Valencia, Spain. With a land area of only 70 km2 and a population of about 12,400, it is one of the oldest villages on the Costa Blanca. The village boasts a unique charm, surrounded by rolling vineyards, high mountains, and wide valleys in an unusually green landscape, with a 4 km long beautiful coastline and clear water.

History of Benissa

The village has a rich history, with influences from the Moorish occupation that can still be noticed in Spanish culture and tradition. Benissa was recaptured by Jaime I of Aragon in 1248 but suffered continuous attacks from Berber pirates during the 15th and 16th century, causing the population to remain largely Moorish until the final elimination of the Moors in 1609. Afterward, people from Catalonia, the Pyrenees, and Aragon settled in Benissa.

Landscape and Surroundings of Benissa

The landscape and surroundings of Benissa are breathtakingly beautiful, with the natural environment unforgettable, situated between the spectacular cliffs and rocks of the Costa Blanca and the high mountain range in the hinterland. A trip by car takes you past old fincas situated between spacious vineyards with panoramic views of the sea.

Beaches of Benissa

The village has four rustic bays with beaches along its 4 km long coastline, each with its unique charm. La Fustera, the most famous beach, has fine sand, a small harbor with a sailing school and a diving center, and excellent facilities for children. Cala Pinets and Cala Advocat offer a combination of sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, while the idyllic bay of Baladrar is admired for its deep blue clear waters surrounded by lazy pine trees. For complete peace and privacy, La Llobella is a secluded beach perfect for retreating.

Places to See in Benissa

A walk through the village takes you through the medieval center with narrow streets, churches, and balconies with typical ironwork and weapons that decorate the historic buildings. The Neo-Gothic church, Catedral de la Marina Alta, built in the 1920s by the rich freemasons of Benissa, is 59 meters long, 29 meters high, and has an imposing altar in honor of the patron saint of the village, Nuestra Purísima Xiqueta.

Sports and Recreation in Benissa

The village offers sports and recreation such as climbing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, and sea fishing.

Gastronomy of Benissa

For those who love good food, the village has a rich gastronomic heritage with traditional dishes such as Borreta de Melva, Mullador de Pelleta, Sang amb ceba, Putxero de polp, Mullador de sangatxo, and Coques al calf, and infinite varieties of rice dishes. A special mention goes out to the artisanal sausages, which are part of Benissa's gastronomic heritage.

Festivals in Benissa

Benissa is always in a party mood, with various activities organized throughout the year, such as exhibitions, conferences, theatre, music concerts, film, excursions, markets, and more. The village also celebrates several festivals such as Cabalgata de Reyes, Fira i Porrat de Sant Antoni, Semana Santa, Fiesta Patronales de la Purisima Xiqueta, Running of the Bulls, and Moros y Cristianos.

Holiday Homes in Benissa

To enjoy the unique charm of the village, holiday homes, luxury villas, and apartments are available along the coastline, rustic fincas inland, and apartments in the historic center for every taste and budget.