Moraira, Spain: Costa Blanca’s Most Exclusive Resort

Discovering Moraira, Costa Blanca (Spain).

Moraira is one of the Costa Blanca’s most exclusive resorts. The picturesque, small coastal town is tucked away in the foothills of the Marina Alta, a wine growing region to the north of Alicante province.

Moraira Old Town

In 1744, the Castell de Moraira tower was built to defend the area from the continuous attacks by the notorious Barbary pirates.

A small fishing community grew under its protection, which has grown into the Moraira we know today. Go down to the harbour, around 9.30 am and you can see the trawlers come in and watch the fascinating fish auction.

Moraira ‘old town’ is just behind the leisure harbour and nautical club. There’s a quaint church hidden away among the pretty cobbled streets, which also feature an array of smart pavement cafés and restaurants.

As you’d imagine, local cuisine includes the fresh fish from the bay, which are the main ingredients in a number of delicious rice dishes. Several local restaurants are recommended in the Michellin Guide. The main seafront leads on from here, where you’ll see the emblematic ‘castle’ watchtower.

Best Beaches in Moraira

Playa l ‘Ampolla beach

Playa l ‘Ampolla is the adjacent wide stretch of sand, a popular beach in a magical setting backed by a natural area of marshes; the Marjal del Senillar is a haven for wildlife, ducks and a variety of seabirds.

Les Platgetes

Walk along the coast a bit further and you’ll come to Les Platgetes, which means ‘little beaches’, attractive sand coves with rock pools which children just love. There is ample free-of-charge parking space in the vicinity, as there are in various points of Moraira, a real plus for local residents and visitors.

Cala L’Andragó cove

Cala L’Andragó is just a short drive south; a photogenic rocky cove with crystal clear water, it’s great for swimming and snorkelling in summer. Once again there’s a choice of restaurants with sea view patios and a tropical ‘chiringuito’ beach bar / eatery.

Cala Cap Blanc and Cala Llebeig

Cala Cap Blanc and Cala Llebeig are secluded rock coves which can be reached on foot. Together with Cala Portitxol (near the Nautical Club), these are ideal places for diving and snorkelling as the sea is so clear.

Playa del Portet beach

Cap d ‘Or peninsula juts out into the Mediterranean Sea to the north of town, protecting the sandy little bay below, Playa del Portet, which is a wonderful suntrap all year round.

There are three or four restaurant terraces on the unpretentious promenade where you can dine-out alfresco or sip a glass of wine, relax and enjoy the privileged beachfront position.

If you’re feeling more energetic, there’s a stiff walk up to a XVI century watchtower at the top of the headland which continues along the cliffs.

How to Get to Moraira

Nearest airports: Valencia 130 km; Alicante 95 km;
By car: N-332 or AP7 motorway (exit 63 Benissa) turnoff to Teulada;
By bus: ALSA Alicante-Denia.

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