Javea or Xabia is a gentle seaside resort in the province of Alicante. Nestled between Cabo de la Nao and Cabo de San Antonio. Overlooked by the Montgo mountain and with three main areas. The World Health Organization voted Javea close to perfect. There are no high buildings as new building restrictions are in place. On a clear day you can see Ibiza, which is 90km away. The population is international with many coming from the UK and Germany. 

The areas

Javea pueblo

The pueblo is the ancient heart and has a lot of history. Medieval aspects, sandstone buildings and narrow streets. Every Thursday locals and tourists visit the weekly market. Here you find stalls with fresh products, clothes, souvenirs et cetera. You cannot miss the impressive San Bartolome church in the centre. A Gothic building dating back from the 15th century. In the building next to the church is the covered market.

The port

The second main area is the harbour and its surrounding streets. Also known as Duanes de la Mar. This is a charming part of Javea. White fishermen houses, narrow streets and the blue Mediterranean Sea. Watch the fishing boats returning. And see the trading of their catch at La Lonja (the fish market). The Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Loreto is worth to visit. A church with avant-garde influences. It has a roof that looks like the hull of a ship. Best is to stroll around and absorb the relaxed atmosphere. There are many different shops, bars and restaurants. The Club Nautico is next to the harbour.

Arenal

The last area is Arenal beach. A lovely sandy bay with palm trees on the beach. Backed up with a modern promenade full of restaurants, bars and shops. In high season there is a night market every day. From here you can walk or cycle alongside the sea to the harbour. Stop at one of the various beach bars for a drink or a meal. Behind the beach is the main street where there are shops as well. Arenal beach has a blue flag.

History

In the 13th century King Jaume expelled the Moors. Two centuries later the economy started to recover. The population increased. They built fortresses and walls to keep the Barbarians out. In the 16th century the plague hit Javea which resulted in the construction of the town´s hospital. The chapel of Santa Anna is the only remnant from this period. In the 19th century Javea started exporting fruits. The raisin trade was very successful until the end of the 1800s. After that export concentrated on wheat, bread, olives and grapes. Agriculture was the main source of income for a long time. Now this is the tourist sector. In 1969 tourism in Javea started with the Parador hotel, the only one in the Costa Blanca.

Coastline

The coastline is rough with hidden coves and sandy beaches. Once used by pirates and smugglers. Now popular with sun lovers, divers and snorklers.

The Miradors

Fourteen viewpoints with breath-taking views. Well indicated and a must do if you want to experience one of the best views of the Costa Blanca. It starts at Cap San Antonio (lighthouse) and goes down to the South. Number 14 is around Granadella beach.

Golf

Javea has its own golf course. Club de Golf de Javea is between Javea and Benitachell. It has 9 holes.

Javea is a town that has much to offer. Both for tourists as for living the whole year round. There is a large amount of facilities, the nature is gorgeous and it has a relaxed vibe.

Interested in this lovely place? Here you can read more.