Benidorm

Half a century has not yet passed since the first summer visitors arrived in Benidorm, attracted by the obvious advantages of its long beach. Before the tourist wave began it was more or less impossible to imagine that the little village of fishermen and the peasants would be transformed within a few years into a cosmopolitan town, a summer holiday resort of international fame. Hotels, restaurants, apartments, amusement halls and fashion shops have changed the urban and essential profile of Benidorm at a breathtaking pace, and for the original inhabitants the traditional farming and fishing tools are a mere memory. Situated on a tiny peninsula in the middle of the bay, the old town reminds one of the places past, once walled and defended by a castle, which was fortified by Felipe II's military engineer, Anton Elli. Destroyed during the War of Independence, its site, still known as the castle, has been converted into a magnificent vantage point, opposite, which the often-mentioned island of Benidorm rises from the sea. According to old tales, this island owes its existence to a miraculous feat of the Corolegian knight Roland.

things to see and do

The mysterious rock off Benidorm's coastline is known as Peacock Island because of the birds there. It's only a10 minute boat ride from the port, and the waters around the island are a marine reserve where the Aquascope gives you a chance to look at the schools of fish and other underwater life. Aftewards, visit the bar or the peacock aviary or try the island trails. Boats return to Benidorm roughly every hour.

If you enjoy watersports, you've come to the right place. 'But-surf' has a large variety of windsurfing boards and equipment for hire (Avda Vicente Llorca Alos 22) or you can hire a boat from Carlos Lauch Rental at the port.

The Festilandia Park on Avda Mediterraneo 20 and Mediterraneo Park on Avda de Mallorca have funfair rides, while Festitron is a game arcade for grown-ups, find it on Avda Mediterraneo, next to Festilandia Park, Open daily until late.

on the beach

Benidorm boasts two of the best beaches in Europe and 3 miles of coastline. Playa de Levante (sunrise beach) is to the east and Playa de Poniente (sunset beach) is to the west.

Playa de Poniente is longer and less crowded so you'll find a bit more privacy. Playa de Levante has a promenade running along its entire length which is lined with bars and cafes.

Between the two, sheltered by the port and the cliffs of the castle, is the small beach of Mal Pas, where smugglers used to land their cargo.

in the shops

The shops along Avda Mediterraneo, and those around or near Triangular Square in the old quarter, are more orientated towards tourists. Avda Mediterraneo has several leather shops and the small shopping bazaars sell cheap T-shirts beachwear and sun dresses,

restaurants

Situated in the old town of Benidorm are a large range of cafes and restaurants - from typical Spanish Tapas bars to upmarket restaurants such as Two Palms, Vagabonos and the Secret Garden.

Magic Roundabout also offers British style food-very popular for Sunday lunch.