The Costa Blanca is famous with travelers for its sun, sea, and long stretches of sandy beaches. Popular towns like Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Alicante draw millions of visitors every year. But if you venture beyond the busy beach promenades, you’ll soon discover that this region has so much more to offer than just coastal resorts.
Just beyond the coastline, a world of rugged mountains, green valleys, and unexpectedly remarkable places awaits. Imagine hiking through dramatic gorges, spotting flamingos at pink salt lakes, exploring cave homes carved into cliffs, and discovering hidden coves with water so clear it takes your breath away.
It is these lesser-known treasures that make a journey through the Costa Blanca truly memorable. Often, it takes just a half-hour drive into the mountains to find yourself in a completely different world.
In this blog, we will guide you through 18 of the most beautiful and surprising spots in and around the Costa Blanca, perfect for anyone who wants to experience the region in a fresh and exciting way.
Costa Blanca Off the Beaten Path: 18 Hidden Gems
#1 Guadalest
Guadalest is without a doubt one of the most remarkable places on the Costa Blanca. This small mountain village sits dramatically atop a rocky outcrop above a deep blue reservoir, almost as if it belongs in a movie. To reach the historic center, you pass through a tunnel carved straight into the rock. Step through, and you’ll find yourself wandering a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and scenic viewpoints.
The true highlight is the castle perched at the very top of the rock. From its fortress walls, you can take in sweeping views of the turquoise reservoir below and the rugged peaks of the Sierra de Aitana beyond. The panorama alone makes the climb more than worthwhile.
#2 The Pink Lake of Salinas de Torrevieja
The salt lakes near Torrevieja are some of the most striking landscapes on the Costa Blanca. Within the natural park Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja lie two vast lagoons, one of which is famous for its vivid pink color. This unusual hue is caused by algae and tiny microorganisms that thrive in the highly salty water.
The area is not only incredibly photogenic but also an important nature reserve. Large flocks of flamingos and other water birds make their home in and around the lagoons. Walking and cycling paths allow you to explore the peaceful landscape of salt flats, reed beds, and shimmering waters at a relaxed pace.
Swimming in the pink lake is a popular activity as well. It is a stunning sight, not just because of the unique color, but also because the high salt content allows you to float effortlessly on the surface. Official signs warn that swimming is strictly prohibited to protect the algae and microorganisms, yet many visitors seem to ignore these rules.
#3 Pasarela de Relleu
The Pasarela de Relleu is one of the most breathtaking hikes on the Costa Blanca. This suspended walkway clings high along the walls of the Río Amadorio canyon, giving you the exhilarating feeling of floating through the gorge. The hike begins in the small mountain village of Relleu and winds through a dry, rugged landscape dotted with rocks and Mediterranean shrubs. You can also start closer to the canyon, where a small parking area is available. With our little children, we preferred this option.
Most of the trail leading to the canyon is scenic but not especially dramatic. The real thrill comes in the final stretch through the gorge itself. First, you reach a small ticket booth, where you pay a few euros for entry and borrow a required helmet. Then you walk along the hanging path hugging the cliff, passing glass viewing sections that allow you to look straight down into the narrow canyon dozens of meters below.
The Pasarela is relatively new and still little known among international visitors. The trail is also not yet fully finished. It is fairly short and ends rather abruptly, with clear signs that construction continues beyond the last glass platform.
#4 Elche
Elche is one of the most fascinating cities in the region, yet it is surprisingly often skipped by travelers exploring the Costa Blanca. That is a real shame, because here lies Europe’s largest palm grove. The Palmeral de Elche is even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is made up of tens of thousands of palm trees, many of which were originally planted by the Moors.
In the city center, you can enjoy relaxing walks through lush parks and palm gardens. The Huerto del Cura is particularly stunning, with its unique palms and quiet paths winding through the greenery. The contrast with the dry surroundings of the region gives the landscape an almost tropical feel. Beyond the palm groves, Elche also boasts a charming historic center filled with lively squares, outdoor terraces, and the impressive Basilica de Santa María.
Just outside the city, you will find the Embassament d’Elx dam, a truly scenic and peaceful spot. You can continue walking along the reservoir itself, soaking in the calm waters and the natural beauty of the area.
#5 Isla de Tabarca
Just off the coast of Alicante lies a small island that feels worlds apart from the rest of the Costa Blanca. Isla de Tabarca is the only inhabited island in the region and is well known for its crystal-clear waters and charming historic village. From the ports of Alicante or Santa Pola, it takes about an hour to reach by boat.
The island is small enough to explore in just a few hours. Behind the old city walls, you will wander through narrow streets, past whitewashed houses, and across quiet squares where the pace of life instantly slows compared to the mainland. On the other side of the island, rugged coastlines and tiny hidden coves beckon visitors to swim or snorkel.
Tabarca is also a protected marine area, which keeps the water exceptionally clear. On a sunny day, the island shimmers with colors that almost feel Caribbean, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
#6 Cañón de Mascarat
Between Altea and Calpe lies one of the most striking natural passages on the Costa Blanca: the Cañón de Mascarat. This narrow canyon cuts straight through the mountains and has served for centuries as a natural route connecting the coast with the inland.
Starting from Playa Mascarat, you follow the gorge as it gradually narrows and the steep rock walls rise dozens of meters on either side. The three bridges that span the canyon are particularly impressive and make for some of the most photogenic spots along the trail, adding an extra sense of drama to the landscape. For those seeking even more excitement than a canyon walk, bungee jumping from one of the bridges is also an option.
After crossing the bridges, continue walking and scrambling a little further until you reach the point where the canyon is at its narrowest, with two enormous stones balancing above the gorge and marking the canyon’s end. The entire walk is just over a kilometer, making it easy to enjoy even with small children, as we discovered ourselves.
#7 Cuevas del Rodeo
In Rojales, you’ll discover a place that might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of the Costa Blanca: a neighborhood of cave homes carved directly into the rock. The Cuevas del Rodeo were once lived in by local families, but today many of the caves have been given new life.
Many of the old dwellings have been transformed into small art studios. As you stroll among the whitewashed caves, you will encounter ceramics, paintings, and handmade creations at every turn. It almost feels like a tiny open-air art center, but set in an extraordinary and unusual environment.
Perched on a hill above Rojales, the area also offers beautiful views over the lush Vega Baja valley. Sundays are particularly lively, as artists open their studios and small markets or cultural events often take place, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
#8 Polop de la Marina
At the foot of the mountains behind Benidorm lies Polop de la Marina, a village that still feels wonderfully authentic. The houses climb the hillside, crowned by the remains of an old castle. After we walked up to the highest point of the castle, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline, the surrounding villages, and the mountains of the Marina Baixa. A path with lookout points winds around the castle, giving visitors the chance to admire the panorama in all its glory.
The true charm of Polop, however, is found in its cozy village atmosphere. Whitewashed houses with flower pots at the door, quiet squares, and narrow streets create a peaceful, inviting feel. On the Plaza de los Chorros, you will find a remarkable fountain with dozens of spouts carrying clear mountain water. An information board explains how villagers once depended on this fountain for their daily water needs.
#9 Mud Baths at Mar Menor
On the edge of the Mar Menor lagoon, you’ll discover one of the region’s most unusual and entertaining experiences: the natural mud baths. In the village of Lo Pagán, it is common to see people completely covered in dark mud along the shore, letting it dry in the sun. It may look a little strange, but this has been a beloved tradition here for many years.
The mud from the lagoon is rich in minerals and is thought to be good for the skin and joints. The ritual is simple: scoop mud from the bottom, cover your body with it, let it dry for a while in the sun, and then rinse off in the lagoon’s water. Signs clearly remind visitors to rinse off in the mud baths themselves and not in the surrounding Mar Menor waters.
Because the Mar Menor is a shallow inland sea, the water here is often several degrees warmer than the Mediterranean. This makes it feel almost like a natural spa, right in the middle of nature, offering a relaxing and playful experience unlike anywhere else in the region.
#10 Santuario de Santa María Magdalena
Just outside the town of Novelda stands a church that feels more at home in Barcelona than in the province of Alicante. The Santuario de Santa María Magdalena is adorned with rounded shapes, colorful tiles, and a striking tower that clearly evokes the style of Gaudí.
Built in the early twentieth century, the church sits on a hill just beyond the town, offering lovely views of the Vinalopó valley from the surrounding grounds. Inside, the most remarkable feature is its unique interior, including an altar crafted entirely from marble. It is a short stop, but one that many travelers do not expect when exploring the Costa Blanca, making it both surprising and unforgettable.
#11 Desierto de Abanilla
The landscape around Abanilla feels almost otherworldly. Here, you will find a vast expanse of dry hills, deep ravines, and rolling clay formations sculpted over time by wind and water. With the pale tones of the rock and its jagged shapes, it can sometimes feel as if you are driving through a miniature desert.
The area is also known as the Abanilla badlands. Along the A-21, there are some truly spectacular viewpoints where the scenery stretches endlessly in every direction. The combination of dry hills, sharp erosion edges, and flowing shapes makes the landscape surprisingly photogenic. For the best views, we recommend stopping at a nearby parking area and taking a short walk along the path that heads north.
Although this area remains relatively unknown, it is perfect for a scenic hike or a leisurely drive to soak in the striking terrain. As a fun extra, be sure to snap a playful photo at the Route 66 sign located along the road just north of the desert-like landscape.
#12 The Waterfalls of Fonts de l’Algar
Tucked away in the mountains behind Benidorm is a lush valley where the waters of the Algar River tumble down in a series of sparkling waterfalls. The Fonts de l’Algar are one of the most stunning natural spots on the Costa Blanca, offering a refreshing contrast to the region’s dry coastline.
A walking path runs alongside the river, guiding you past multiple waterfalls and natural swimming areas. The water is crystal clear and delightfully cool, making it the perfect spot to take a refreshing break on a warm day. In several spots, you can even swim in natural pools nestled between the rocks.
The landscape here is far greener than you might expect in this part of Spain. Palm trees, fig trees, and other Mediterranean plants create an almost tropical feel, adding to the charm and tranquility of this serene valley.
#13 Voltereta Tanzania
In the heart of Alicante, you’ll discover a restaurant that transports you to another continent. At Voltereta Tanzania, the experience begins the moment you step inside. The themed restaurant is fully styled in African safari fashion, with warm colors, wooden accents, and an atmosphere that evokes the feeling of a lodge on the savanna.
Even before you take a seat, the adventure begins. You wander through several rooms, each telling its own part of the story, making it feel almost like stepping into a movie set. It is clear that every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to create a memorable experience. Thanks to its unique concept, the restaurant is very popular, so reserving a table in advance is highly recommended.
#14 Playa de la Granadella
Along the coast near Jávea lies one of the Costa Blanca’s most stunning coves. Playa de la Granadella is a small pebble beach framed by high cliffs and pine forests. The water here is a vivid turquoise, making it one of the top spots in the region for snorkeling.
The cove is hidden between cliffs, giving it a much more intimate feel than the long beaches found elsewhere along the Costa Blanca. From the surrounding hills, you can also enjoy spectacular viewpoints overlooking the bay and the Mediterranean Sea.
Because the beach is fairly small, it can get busy in the summer. The best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the atmosphere is quieter and you can fully appreciate the beauty and charm of this special spot
#15 Cala del Moraig
Cala del Moraig is one of the most breathtaking coves on the Costa Blanca. Nestled beneath towering limestone cliffs near the village of Benitachell, the beach is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and rugged, natural surroundings. From the parking area, you already get a stunning view, but the full magic reveals itself once you make the steep walk down to the bay.
The pebble beach is surrounded by dramatic rock formations and nearly vertical cliffs rising straight from the sea. This creates a wilder and more dramatic atmosphere than many other beaches in the region, making it feel like a hidden natural gem.
Next to the beach, within the cliffs, is the Cova dels Arcs, a natural rock arch with sea water flowing through it. This is one of the most photogenic spots on the Costa Blanca and is ideal for photography, snorkeling, and short coastal walks, offering a perfect combination of adventure and natural beauty.
#16 Barranc de l’Infern
The Barranc de l’Infern is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular hikes in the province of Alicante. Its reputation comes not only from the dramatic scenery but also because it is the most challenging trail in the region. This deep gorge, nestled in the Vall de Laguar, is often called the “cathedral of hiking.” The route is especially famous for the thousands of stone steps carved centuries ago by farmers and shepherds, which have stood the test of time.
Along the trail, you cross several ravines via ancient paths and terraces carefully built into the steep mountain slopes. The landscape is rugged yet peaceful, surprisingly green, and offers breathtaking views of deep gorges and distant peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The complete hike, known as the PR-CV 147, features more than six thousand steps. This makes it an incredibly demanding journey, yet also immensely rewarding. For many hikers, the Barranc de l’Infern ranks as one of the most unforgettable trails on the entire Costa Blanca, combining a true sense of adventure with stunning natural beauty.
#17 Cova Tallada
Between Dénia and Jávea lies one of the Costa Blanca’s most extraordinary spots: the Cova Tallada. This enormous sea cave was once a working quarry, leaving behind a stunning labyrinth of carved rooms, arches, and tunnels that stretch partly into the cliffside and partly above the water. The combination of rock and sea creates a dramatic and unforgettable setting.
The cave is reached via a hike along the cliffs of Montgó Natural Park. The trail meanders along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean at every turn. The final approach takes you over rocks right along the water’s edge, adding a sense of adventure before you even step inside. Once within the cave, its vast scale is immediately apparent. Sunlight filters through openings in the ceiling, casting a brilliant turquoise glow on the water below.
During peak season, it is essential to register or book in advance through the official website, as failing to do so can result in a fine. Since 2022, a reservation system has been in place to protect this natural wonder from overcrowding. Entrance itself remains free, and the website provides clear guidance on which months require mandatory registration, ensuring that visitors can enjoy this magical place responsibly.
#18 Forat de Bernia
One of the most spectacular hikes on the Costa Blanca is tucked away in the mountains of the Sierra de Bernia. The trail to the Forat de Bernia winds along rugged cliffs and scenic viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramas of both the Mediterranean Sea and the inland valleys. Yet the true magic of the hike reveals itself halfway along the path.
Here, you come to a natural tunnel that cuts straight through the mountain. You crawl through a narrow opening in the rock and suddenly step out into a completely different landscape on the other side. From this vantage point, the view over the coastline is stunning, like discovering a hidden balcony perched high above the sea. It is a spellbinding spot that makes every step of the climb worthwhile, leaving you with one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences on the Costa Blanca.
