Javea Supplement March 2023 CBN Issue 102

PRETTY AS A PICTURE

The views of the Javea headlands have been mesmerising visitors since Joaquin Sorolla painted here at the end of the 19th century

THE majestic umbrella pines perfectly frame what must be one of the prettiest stretches of coastline in Europe.

The countless vistas of the cobalt blue sea and its coves, playing off perfectly against the honey-coloured sandstone headlands, have helped to make Javea famous.

Best viewed from any of the 15 viewpoints - collectively known as the Ruta de los Miradores - the coastline has somehow managed to survive the worst excesses of the construction boom.

While there are a few obvious exceptions, the majority of the rutted coastline and the nearby hills are blissfully still intact and perfect for a hike.

Javea’s rugged beauty holds enough hidden jewels to share all around, writes Jon Clarke

While some visitors attempt the Mirador challenge, taking in all viewpoints over 29 kilometres, my early morning stroll to one of them, Cap Negre, followed by a hike downhill to empty Playa Ambolo was by far the best start of the day this year so far.

I’ve known the coastline around Javea for decades and, in fact, many years before I even visited, thanks to the keen eye of Madrid’s astute 19th century painter Joaquin Sorolla.

It was at his former home in the capital, now a museum, that I used to marvel at

the colour and light of this marvellous region and its impressive geology. Sorolla was a massive fan of Javea (also known as Xabia in Valenciano) and would spend many of his summer holidays here, painting children on the beach or setting up his easel in the nearby headlands. To head to his museum in Madrid when I lived in the capital in the 1990s, was the best way to escape the frenetic pace of the

Continues overleaf

city and quickly find yourself transported to the seaside around Javea.

Forget long, white sandy beaches, like in nearby Benidorm or Almeria, say, Javea is all about its natural protected coves.

Once a remote beach, Conde Nast Traveler named Cala Barraca as one of the Mediterranean’s ‘most Instagrammed spots’, while award-winning Playa Granadella becomes something of a roadblock in summer.

Make sure you head here out of season and enjoy the resort, that half a century ago was only connected to the rest of Spain by dirt tracks.

In summer the town of 29,000 souls (around half of them foreign) swells to over 100,000 people, which is no surprise thanks to its frenetic nightlife, bustling gourmet scene and, of course,

Fending off pirates

fabulous weather.

Javea also has everything you might need for a holiday (or to relocate) from golf courses to bowling clubs and from a VO cinema to a sailing club.

“One of its best things is its Llebeig athletics and swimming club,” explains British expat Stella French, who moved to Javea with her husband Ed eight years ago.

“It’s like one big family and they organise daily runs, swims and cycles and swimming in the clear water here, with rays swimming around you takes some beating.

“While the Javea triathlon in Septem-

ber is amazing, if you can somehow manage to get in.”

She has been coming to the town for 23 years, while Ed first came on holiday in 1982.

“There was no running water back then and you got your drinking water, or ‘agua dulce’ from specific water deposits scattered around the town,” recalls the former Royal Navy avionics engineer, 77. “You needed to take buckets with you.”

While it hasn’t always changed for the better (‘we struggled to get a table at any restaurants at the weekend, even in March’), the pair were quick to commend the town’s excellent mix of Germans, French and British, plus many other nationalities.

Javea certainly has a very different mix of expatriates that you might find on other parts of the coast or down on the Costa del Sol.

Many are drawn to its atmospheric old town, which unlike many others, has been almost completely untouched and looks the same as it did a century ago.

Wandering its ancient narrow streets you can still feel the protection they provided from unpredictable attacks by Barbary pirates, while its 14th-century Iglesia-Fortaleza de San Bartolome was always completely siegeready.

Make sure to take a look around its cool municipal market full of morning-fresh sepia squid and crimson-red prawns, while marvelling at its local honey-coloured Tosca stone.

This is where the locals take their morning coffees with a ‘coca’ – a traditional sourdough flatbread topped with either chopped tomatoes and salted tuna or typically, a single anchovy.

Head off in all directions and up the main drag and you will find some funky local shops, not to mention plenty of good places to eat.

But Javea however is basically divided into three separate parts: the old town, its nearby port area and ‘el Arenal’, the modern beach area at the other end of the bay.

This is where the tourists head and where, predictably you find most of

FORTIFIED: Javea’s Iglesia-Fortaleza de San Bartolome, while (right) Stella and Ed French first visited Javea in the 1980s

FAMILY FUN: Surfing at Arenal Beach, while (below) enjoying the amazing views and (far right) the stations of the cross leading up to Ermita Cristo del Calvari

Javea has a very different mix of expats than you find along the coast

the nightlife.

However it does have a great natural sandy beach, which offers easy access to warm, shallow waters and sometimes when the waves are up, some excellent surf.

Near here, look out for David Ferrer’s tennis club, while one of the town’s famous Michelin-starred restaurants, Tula, sits pride of place, near the Parador hotel. The other, BonAmb, is a short five minute drive away.

If you are finding it all a bit hectic in the Arenal area and not a fan of the more rocky coastline between here and the port, you can take a 20-minute hike towards the San Antonio headland to Cala Tango.

This is a fabulous spot for kids with its 17 metre-high jumping platform and amazing crystal clear blue waters. Meanwhile, a 10-minute walk south of Arenal will take you to Cala Blanca, a lovely round cove, excellent for an evening dip.

From then on you are heading into the dramatic Cabo de la Nao headland with its many hidden coves, many of which are a real battle to reach on foot.

The ones you can reach more easily are the aforementioned Playa

Granadella and Playa Ambolo, while there are plenty of others, such as the little-known Cala en Calo that’s a genuine swimming secret. And finally, for those who like something pretty, but would rather drive there, head to Playa Barraca, also known as Portitxol, where you can find a local chiringuito, that hits the spot (sometimes). Or, as Joaquin Sorolla used to do on his regular painting days at the beach, you could simply bring a splendid slap up picnic, along with a giant parasol.

Matt Damon is a regular holidaymaker to Javea thanks to his Argentine wife, Luciana Barroso, whose brother lives in the area. Meanwhile various Hollywood films, like the Cold Light of Day, starring Bruce Willis and Sigourney Weaver, have been shot around Javea.

DID YOU KNOW?

Jennifer Cunningham didn’t plan to move to Spain…until she fell in love with Javea

BEST PLACE IN SPAIN

“I never tire of Javea,” insists local businesswoman Jennifer Cunningham. “I can sit on a terrace and gaze at the sea day after day. It’s wonderful at sunrise and sunset, spectacular, but it’s when the bay twinkles in the moonlight that Javea is at its most beautiful.

“Sitting with a coffee or a glass of wine and watching the world go by is one of my pleasures in life. Even in early March you can enjoy the warm sunshine on your face, look out over at Montgo, and see waterskiers in the bay.”

She insists that the town, where she has lived for over three decades, occupies a special corner of Spain with its ‘very own microclimate’.

“It’s a wonderful place to live and while it has changed a lot since I arrived, it has the old town with a marvellous market that still retains the feeling of the fishing village it once was.”

This however, is pushed to the limit during the summer when tens of thousands of Spanish swoop on Javea.

“Those of us who live here year round breathe a sigh of relief when September 1 comes and the multitudes go home.

But in truth, the tourists are needed to keep the local businesses, the shops and restaurants alive,” explains Jennifer.

Despite the pandemic not as many businesses closed as Jennifer feared and Javea is now thriving again. “There are new apartments going up everywhere,” she continues. “Little teeny patches of scrubland suddenly get snapped up and then there’s an apartment block.

“This isn’t always a good thing. Parking is a huge problem in Javea even outside the summer months but in peak tourist season, it’s impossible.”

She believes the town should introduce a ‘park and ride’ type system so visitors can leave their cars outside and catch a bus in.

“It’s hard seeing the town I know change so much and I wish there was more thought going into its development,” she admits. But on the whole the love affair with the town she first encountered on a holiday in the 1980s con-

GOLDEN FIND

A PAIR of snorkelers found 53 gold coins off La Cala Barraca, just beneath Portitxol Island, two years ago.

Local archaeologists reportedly ‘cried’ as one of Europe’s largest finds of Roman-era gold put their little bay in the history books (Portixtol comes

tinues.

She recalls the snap decision she made to move to Javea all those years ago.

“Here I was on holiday having a lovely time and I did everything you shouldn’t really do when making important life decisions. Just like that I saw a property I loved and put down a deposit, then went back and sold up in the UK,” she laughs. “I was ruled by my heart and not my head and that isn’t something that I would normally do. But if you asked me if I would do it all again I’d say yes, I absolutely love Javea and feel very safe here. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”

Jennifer Cunningham runs one of the most successful expat businesses in Spain, a giant insurance business, which began with one small office in Javea and has now grown to seven branches across the Costa Blanca and one in Lanzarote. For more information please visit www.jennifercunningham.net

Javea still retains the feeling of the fishing village it once was

VISTA: Towards the Montgo mountain, while (right) sunbathing in March and a line of towers windmills

TRULY SPECIAL

Grupo Garcia can guide you to the the best quality of life inland and on the coast

FROM the Granadella beach and national park to the south, passing the Arenal to the Port and Montgo National park in the North, Javea has an amazing coastline but it is not just the coast that makes Javea special to the people that live and visit here.

Grupo Garcia understands the unique quality of life available here and the property market that is unique to Javea. We have spent 25 years enjoying matching people with homes and we try to make it as enjoyable and as stress free as possible.

Grupo Garcia offers honest advice and guidance to both buying and selling your home and right now we have some very attractive offers for both buyers and sellers alike.

We have a portfolio of attractive properties - vendors have trusted us for years with their homes but now demand outstrips supply and we have a large collection of buyers, investors and developers who are constantly demanding more property.

If you have a property to sell in Javea or surrounding areas please contact us urgently via telephone, email or just pop into our office next to the Club de Tenis in Javea for a friendly chat - we look forward to helping you!

From more information, call 637 844 891 or visit www.grupo-garcia.es

THE year of 1908 marked the first time Londoners set eyes on Javea.

In an age where aeroplanes were still learning how to fly, and photographs still in development, the meeting inevitably came through the paintbrush.

But the exhibition at Grafton Galleries through May, June and July weren’t just any old paintings of Javea.

The posters put Javea’s name next to that of Joaquin Sorolla, calling him ‘the world’s greatest living painter’ following international success. Sorolla, born in Valencia in 1863, fell in love with the Costa Blanca fishing town of Javea during a visit in 1896. “Javea is sublime, immense, the best I know to paint. It surpasses everything,” he wrote in one of more than 2,000 letters kept by his wife, Clotilde. Sorolla’s obsession with the play of light and water in

A CENTURY OF

Artist Joaquin Sorolla hoped that his first UK exhibition featuring Javea would make him rich

Javea saw the town make up a large part of the 278 paintings he took to London in search of fortune.

Among these paintings include Cabo de San Antonio, Javea that captured the site of Javea’s iconic headland back in 1896. There was also Cordelores de Javea, Nadadores de Javea, El puerto de Javea, A child in Javea and countless others referencing the seafaring, sea-loving and golden-coloured moments Sorolla encountered. One of Sorolla’s most famous paintings known to have sold was Encajonando pasas from 1900, showing hundreds of women in Javea packaging raisins for an international trade of which Britain was one of Denia port’s largest customers. While London may have fallen in love with Javea and Sorolla at the exhibition, the opposite never happened.

Sorolla was disappointed with his reception in London.

He complained about the cold air, he complained about being lonely, and he feared the ‘polite’ upper-class English were too cerebral to appreciate his masterpieces of light and fresh air.

Worst of all, Sorolla sold few paintings in London in 1908. “I feel old, I can’t live alone, I’m emptier than you, for you at least have the children,” he wrote to Clotilde. “Today is a disgusting day, I’ve

BEACH LIFE

only just had my lunch with electric light and it’s already 2pm – I hate big cities, viva Javea.”

England later proved to be Sorolla’s lucky ticket, however, as it was there he met American philanthropist Archer Milton Huntington.

Sorolla soon received an invite to exhibit at The Hispanic Society of America in New York, where he sold 195 paintings.

The society later commissioned Sorolla to

paint a huge mural called Vision of Spain , that captured the Spanish nation in a series of works taking six years (1913-1919) to complete.

By the time Sorolla was done, he had earned enough money to buy a house in central Madrid that today houses his works as the Museo Sorolla.

When he died in 1923 Sorolla was already established as one of Spain’s all time greats. It took another 100 years – until 2019 – for London’s National Gallery to put on a British exhibition of Sorolla ( Sorolla: Master of Light ). Except that, this time, Sorolla’s painting of Javea had already become priceless.

BY DESIGN

Dumas Design offers a better experience tailored to all their customers

AT Dumas Design, we respond and adapt to living trends and tradition when it comes to outdoor design.

Through innovation and keeping up with current trends, Dumas Design aims to offer you a catalogue of different styles to suit the outdoor space you want to decorate.

The philosophy of the Dutch family-run brand recognises the importance of utility alongside aesthetics for furniture that allows people to escape the daily stresses of contemporary life in their own environment. Whether that applies to the lounge area or dining area or everything in between.

Here at Dumas Design, we want to offer the customer a different, better, experience than they are used to at other furniture shops and exterior design studios. It has to be enjoyable. And convenient.

This lofty goal is achieved by reflecting our team in our service. It is a by-product of our culture. After all, it all starts with an amazing staff that loves what they do. Dumas Design takes a more tailored approach to beautiful furniture and exterior design. With our beautiful styles, a range of great accessories and an abundance of cosiness, customers will be surprised every time they come back.

OUTSTANDING RESULT!

Fine & Country Costa Blanca North Award Winners for third year running

FINE & Country Costa Blanca North was presented with Spain Regional Winner at the brand’s annual conference and awards ceremony, held on Friday, March 10 at The Brewery in London. The event was attended by many of the brand's UK based agents, as well as those based in locations further afield,

including France, Germany, Hungary, Jersey, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Switzerland.

“We are elated to receive this award and be recognised for our hard work and dedication to our clients over the past year. This award is a culmination of our efforts throughout the last 12 months and a symbol of our commitment to providing exceptional customer service,” said Chris Hara, Managing Director of Fine & Country Costa Blanca North.

Opportunity

Titled ‘To stand out, be outstanding’, the conference focused on the fact that while 2023 is proving to be another year of unpredictability for the housing market, in the challenge lies opportunity for outstanding agents.

Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director of Fine & Country,

says: “While 2023 will be a more challenging year for the estate agency sector than what we have experienced in the past few years, we believe that with our experience, arsenal of technology, award-winning marketing and international network of like-minded, passionate people behind us, there is no reason why Fine & Country will not stand out from the competition and continue to achieve outstanding results for our clients this year.” The conference and awards event is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the agents within Fine & Country who had achieved remarkable results over the past year.

“Throughout 2022, many of the agents within the brand achieved some incredible results and truly are outstanding. Our awards ceremony is a celebration of their excellence, and an opportunity to recognise their achievements,” adds Stevenson. “Congratulations to those who won awards this year. We are extremely proud of the exceptional performance of the brand throughout 2022, and we are delighted to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of our network,” she concludes.

ELATED: Chris Hara

A South facing Bel Air inspired Mediterranean Mansion, Javea

2,150,000€

This is a palatial classically designed villa with Spanish colonial architecture known for its luxurious open-air style. Embracing natural surroundings with stunning views of the Montgó mountain while celebrating the finest elements of construction and décor with marble columns and floorings that are timeless in their appeal. The open concept interior flows from room to room, from the showstopping entrance hall with an imperial staircase to the impressive double height living room that takes you out to the terrace via the Palladian glass doors, stepping down to the lush verdant garden with lawn to the heated pool with water feature and slide, the arched riu rau inspired garden feature adjacent to the summer house with bar, kitchen, BBQ , relax/dining area and a separate bathroom with shower facility.

Numerous areas for sophisticated entertaining, to enjoy the most amazing parties and what are simply beautiful spaces that have even been used to host several weddings.

This villa is a virtual playground of amenities including its own wine bodega of 27.60m to proudly display any wine connoisseur’s fine collection and to entertain guests. An exceptionally private property designed for all occasions and to provide maximum versality with eight bedrooms, tailored to suit a multitude of lifestyles.

Step elegantly back in time into an exclusive property that is being sold fully furnished and only a short 5 minute drive to the beaches, yacht marinas and nearby golf courses.

If

you are looking for an exceptional real estate service here at Fine & Country Costa Blanca North we help “buyers” find the dream property to suit their lifestyle and “sellers” to find the right buyer wherever they are in the world. We don’t just sell properties; we sell the lifestyle.

Fine & Country Costa Blanca North - Regional Office: Marina de Dénia, Edificio E Bajo 2, Darsena de Babor, Puerto de Denia, 03700, Denia

IT’S JUST LOGICAL

Find out how award winning experts Logic Financial Consultants can help you

WHO ARE WE?

We are Logic Financial Consultants - an award-winning, financial-run IFA practice, based in Javea.

At Logic, we are proud to have two fully qualified, Diploma status advisers in Ian and George.

This provides our clients with peace of mind that we continue to build our family- run company for the long-term; to be sustainable, licenced and regulated moving through the generations.

Clients have certainty with who they are dealing with and know exactly who is going to turn up at every review meeting.

WHAT SERVICES DO WE OFFER?

We take a holistic approach to financial planning and can help clients in the following areas:

● Wealth Management

● Tax-efficient investment solutions for Spanish tax residents.

● Flexible pension product solutions.

● Cross-border tax planning.

● Highlighting differences between the UK and Spanish tax systems.

Through our professional connections, we are also able to assist clients with insurance products, residency applications and Wills.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

As part of one of the leading networks in Europe, we have freedom of market across Europe, thanks to our MIFID II and IDD licences. These licences are not easy to obtain but ensure that our company can always find the best solutions available for every one of our clients.

PROFESSIONAL, TRUSTED

Being a family-run business, client service is at the heart of everything we do and strive to deliver on as a company. This led us to our biggest achievement to date, winning the sought-after European International Adviser award for “Excellence in Client Service”.

For more information call + 34 965 02 04 44, email info@logicfc.com or visit www.logicfinancialconsultants.com

Jewels of the Costa

COSTA BLANCA is a region that is renowned for its spectacular coastline, beautiful towns, and rich cultural heritage.

The region is also home to numerous charming towns, each with its own unique character, but Javea and Altea stand out among them.

Javea is famous among international expats and visitors because of its vibrant lifestyle. With its natural beauty and lively cultural scene, Javea is one of the most sought-after places to live or visit.

The town's bustling port is a hub of activity and offers some of the freshest seafood in the area.

Javea's beaches are also a major attraction, offering crystal-clear waters and golden sand.

The town is becoming an increasingly attractive investment zone compared to the rest of Europe, offering numerous opportunities for real estate investment and development.

With its stunning natural scenery, excellent schools, easy access to airports, and

Javea and Altea stand out for their charm, food and culture

burgeoning investment potential, Javea is a truly special place to live, work, and visit.

Altea, the best-kept secret

The lesser known Altea, hides beautiful corners that are the delight of visitors who have the privilege of coming across this charming village. The old town of Altea features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional white-washed buildings, and quaint shops and cafes.

The area is a hub for artists and it is home to numerous art galleries. Visitors can explore the streets, admire the local artwork, and enjoy a glass of wine or a delicious meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

The gastronomy in Altea is also something to behold. The town is famous for its fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and tradi-

tional Spanish cuisine. There are numerous restaurants and bars in the town that serve up an amazing meal using only the finest ingredients.

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, Altea Hills is the place to be. This exclusive area with golf course and tennis facilities is home to some of the most stylish properties on the Costa Blanca. The hills offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, and they are a popular destination for those looking to buy a holiday home or investment property in Spain.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a luxurious getaway, these towns have it all. And if you're interested in buying property in the area, be sure to choose Lucas Fox as your trusted real estate agency. For more information and details of how to contact Lucas Fox international properties, please see the advert (right).

LUCAS FOX SPECIALISES IN MARKETING LUXURY PROPERTIES AND ARE LEADERS IN SELLING TO INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS.

WE GUARANTEE PROFESSIONALISM AND HIGHEST QUALITY SERVICE TO MAKE BOTH SELLING AND BUYING YOUR PROPERTY AS EASY AND TRANSPARENT AS POSSIBLE.

COAST WITH THE

Javea is one of Europe’s best places to locate in thanks to its climate and mountain backdrop

FOR a coastal destination like Javea it’s strange that a mountain means so much. The honey-coloured Montgo massif is only 753m tall. But that’s enough to make it a photogenic backdrop as well as giving Javea one of the best microclimates in the world.

According to one of the world’s first major microclimate studies conducted in the 1990s, Javea shot to number two behind Rio de Janeiro, also backed by its famous mountain. The Montgo blocks icy, arctic winds from ruining winter (20C days in January are common) while cool sea breezes keep scorching summer temperatures to between 23C to 27C. This geographical stroke of luck has turned Javea into a top retirement destination for expats from around the world.

And Javea understandably swells in summer as the well-to-do from Valencia and Madrid flock down to enjoy their well-earned holidays.

For them, Javea has become something of a status symbol thanks to the entrancing paintings of Joaquin Sorolla, as well as being the birthplace and home of Spain’s former world no.3 tennis player David Ferrer.

PRIME LOCATION: Stunning villas overloooking Cala Ambolo

MOST

IN DEMAND

Changing lifestyles mean more people than ever are looking to Javea

ARE you considering selling your property in Javea?

The recent changes in the way people live and work could make this an excellent time to do so. With many people looking to move to quieter areas for a better quality of life, the demand for properties in Javea has never been higher.

The property market has evolved in recent years, with many people reassessing their living situations and looking to move to areas that offer more space and better outdoor living options.

Javea is an ideal location for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, with its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and mild climate.

Javea also shares a bounty of fresh gambas rojas (red prawns) with its neighbour of Denia, one of the gastronomy hotspots of Spain.

According to popular local agency Blanca International, Javea has one of the largest concentrations of foreigners in Spain.

“With a reputation for stunning beaches and great food it’s no surprise that Javea has one of the highest expat populations, with 54% coming from abroad,” says Sigve Kommedal.

“In Valencia province, this is only beaten by Calpe, Altea, Teulada-Moraira and Rojales,” says Kommedal.

But this popularity comes at a price, with few places on Spain’s coastline having such high house prices.

With average prices in Javea at €2,438

MOST EXPENSIVE: Valencia region’s priciest street is Carrer Penaguila, which winds above Javea port (above), while (left) a unique villa on Cala Ambolo

per m2, it is the third most expensive municipality in the Valencian Community, after Alboraya in Valencia and neighbouring Teulada-Moraira.

On a par with Estepona and Nerja on the Costa del Sol, it is considerably cheaper however, than Marbella which averages out at €3,108 per m2.

Exclusive

While it is pipped by nearby Moraira for average price, Javea however has the Valencia region’s most expensive street to buy in.

According to Idealista, property prices in Calle Penaguila averaged out at nearly €2.7 million in 2020. And that’s no surprise with the amazing

road snaking up from the edge of the port into the nearby hills with incredible views. They say location is everything and this street is hard to beat with less than 100 houses, most of them large - but not outsized - with decent gardens and in easy reach of both countryside walks and the heart of Javea old town and the port, with its cinema and restaurants. Currently the most expensive home for sale in Calle Penaguila is at €4.5m, a four bedroom property with an infinity pool, while you can pick up a five bedroom further down the hill for €1.2m.

This has led to an influx of buyers from all over the world looking for properties in the area, which means there is a great opportunity to sell your property to an international buyer.

At Villas-Plots, we understand the market conditions and can help you navigate the process of selling your property in Javea.

We pride ourselves on delivering a professional and personalised service to all of our clients.

We understand that selling your property can be a significant decision, and we’re here to provide support and guidance throughout the process.

If you’re considering selling your property in Javea, now is an excellent time to do so.

Contact Villas-Plots today to find out how we can help you get the best price for your home in the current market conditions.

For more information, visit The Hub on Avenida de Libertad, 19, Local 5, Jávea or call + 966 468 474 / +34 648 100 615 or email info@villas-plots.com

Villa, Javea | 1.949.000€

SOLE AGENCY SOLE AGENCY

Expansive south orientated sea-views villa, the beautiful “Ca Lola” is an authentic Mediterranean design villa of 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms in natural light offering stunning views spanning from Ambolo to the bay of Granadella. Set for completion Autumn 2023 fully furnished, equipped and landscaped.

Ref. 007815

Old Town, Jávea | 360.000€

Meticulously refurbished townhouse of 156m² in the most emblematic street of the old town. South facing with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

Hot/Cold A/C.

BBQ and terrace with sea views and across Jávea.

Old Town, Jávea | 429.000€

South facing penthouse duplex of 167m² with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.

Hot/Cold A/C.

Roof terrace of 25m².

Sea, valley and Montgó views. Community pool & gardens. Elevator, parking and store room.

Arenal | 265.000€

Located just a few hundred metres to the Arenal and its sandy beach, close to all amenities, this ground floor 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment features a vast private terrace overlooking a pedestrianised boulevard. Hot/Cold A/C.

Community pool and gardens. The apartment possess a tourist license.

A walk through history

JAVEA’S old town is a perfectly preserved relic of the past, exuding a rustic charm that is all too rare in today’s world.

Dating back to medieval times, its buildings are a patchwork of historic architecture spanning seven

centuries.

Today’s old town is distinguished by its narrow lanes adorned with white façades and gothic windows alongside its distinctive tosca sandstone. The beating heart of the town was once dedicated to the rai -

sin trade, and its ornate raisin drying facilities still remain in the form of sandstone partitions and galleries with large ulls, which would shelter the grapes on thatched mats to dry. Indeed, to walk through the old town is to dip one’s toe into a rich mercantile history.

In the 13th century, Javea was but a small enclosure sealed in by city walls but the 16th and 17th centuries gave rise to the construction of Javea’s most inspired architecture, with gothic buildings such as the Palau dels Sapena and the Casa dels Bolufer.

There is a nice range of small shops and restaurants to stop at, including the excellent Irish-Romanian-run place, La Sucreria, right by the main church. Also look out for the recently opened Carniceria tapas bar, on the outskirts of the centre. Make sure to look out for its ancient market, now converted into a gourmet hall, perfect for lunch or supper. Needless to say Javea’s old town retains an allure that has wowed visitors for centuries and long may it continue.

PICTURESQUE: An old town street (far left) and ancient market are just some of the spots to see charming architectural details, while (right) townsfolk old and new and the impressive church

Old town stroll takes you through Javea’s past

VillaMia, established over 15 years ago, offers the complete property service. With an office in Jávea we cover sales, long term rentals, winter lets and property management in the coastal towns of Jávea, Moraira, Denia and the surrounding areas.

Villa Mia guides you to the top Costa Blanca weekly street markets

BUYING local goods and produce to support local traders is a very laudable reason to visit Costa Blanca street markets.

The chance to shop in the open air and the range of stalls selling everything from pottery to shoes are also super reasons to go to the weekly markets.

There are some great bargains to be had, and we always end up buying more than on our original shopping list.

Most towns and villages hold a weekly market, but these are our favourite Costa Blanca markets within a 30-minute drive of our Jávea office.

Most are open from around 8am to 1.30pm or 12pm. Go early to avoid the crowds and also the heat in the summer months.

Alternatively, head to the market for an early lunch, as traders often sell snacks, including churros with chocolate.

WEEKLY MARKET IN JÁVEA OLD TOWN

Where better to start than Javea’s very own market. From food to footwear, there are plenty of goods to be found at the Thursday market in the Plaza de la Constitucion. You’ll find more than 100 stalls selling fruit, vegetables, sausages, cheese, clothes, shoes, bags, belts, flowers and plants, household items, sweets and more.

You can easily make a whole morning of it because there are plenty of places to stop for lunch in the old town.

The indoor market is a few minutes away in a lovely old building in Plaza Celestino Pons for more fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, and bread.

MORAIRA MARKET

Every Friday morning, the large car park in Ctra Moraira-Calpe in the centre of town becomes a lively outdoor market. For the

SHOP TIL YOU DROP

weekend, you can pick up fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices, and cheese. There’s also a great selection of flowers, clothes, bags, handicrafts, etc.

DÉNIA WEEKLY MARKET

The Monday market in Dénia is held in the extensive Torrecremada car park. Much like Moraira´s market, it is full of stalls selling everything from crafts, pottery, clothes, bags, shoes, household items, goods, plants, flowers and fresh local food.

Calle La Vía, Dénia, is lined with stalls selling fresh fruit, locally-grown vegetables, spices, and plants every Friday morning. We love the variety of tomatoes you can get here and the sweetest oranges and grapefruits at a fraction of the price of the shops.

JESUS POBRE MARKET ON SUNDAYS

Jesus Pobre riurau - a traditional building used in producing raisins - has to be the prettiest spot for a market. This farmers' market is full of excellent local produce and crafts, including fruit, vegetables, bread, jam, cocas, olive oil, and wine. The Jesus Pobre market is held on Sundays from 6 pm to 11 pm from the end of June until mid-September and from 9 am to 2 pm during the rest of the year. Often there’s live music and a bar to have a drink while enjoying the views from the market.

JALÓN RASTRO OR FLEA MARKET

Many people - and some coach partieshead into the Jalon valley for the rastro or

flea market on Saturdays. If you’re a collector, it is worth a trip to see what antiques and second-hand goods are on sale. The market is opposite Bodegas Xaló so that you can pick up some wine and gourmet products such as olive oil, turrón and jam simultaneously.

PEDREGUER RASTRO

For a Sunday market on the Costa Blanca, the rastro in Pedreguer industrial estate is a very popular choice. There are plenty of stalls for picking up fruit and vegetables as well as second-hand goods, clothes, gifts and food.

BENISSA MARKET

You'll find fresh fruit and vegetables, typical food products from the Marina Alta region, clothes, shoes, plants and other goods at Benissa's street market. It is held every Saturday morning in calles San Jose, San Nicolas and Hort de Bordes.

IF YOU HAVE A PROPERTY TO RENT OR SELL, OR ARE LOOKING FOR ONE, CONTACT VILLAMIA ON INFO@VILLAMIA.NET OR CALL 965794139.

We have a multilingual, hard working and friendly team. We use our knowledge, experience and dedication to find you your perfect home with the best service in the area!

If you have a property to sell, we offer just 3% commission for exclusivity and free professional photography and matterport videos.

villa in perfect location with walking distance to Consum supermarket in Javea, a short 5 minute drive to the Javea Arenal beach, as well conveniently located only a short drive to the international schools.

Fantastic Villa in La Corona with panoramic sea views, located a short distance from the port of Javea and the old town. With South orientation enjoy the sun all day and also throughout the year, which makes this house and home.

Charming Spanish style villa with sea views in Balcon al Mar. This property has lovely designed terraces, arched windows, round walls, Mediterranean garden and large swimming pool. guarded by an amazing summer kitchen and living area.

Lovely 5 bed

DIVINE INSPIRATION

IT could well be the most quirky-looking church in Spain.

Sculptural Nuestra Señora de Lo -

The modern church that brings a new grace to the town’s architecture

reto rears up over its nearby buildings like an angry spider or a space-age creature from HG Wells’ War of the Worlds.

It was built on the site of an old fishermen’s church by

the port in 1967, designed by four architects.

An important example of avant-garde religious architecture, it stands out for its bold lines and its use of space.

AMBITIOUS GREEN EU GRANT BID

JAVEA council has applied for a €5.6m grant to reduce visitor saturation and improve facilities at popular tourist spots.

It hopes the EU Tourism Sustainability money will help to bring in capacity restrictions for the Els Orguens and Llop Mari caves.

A phone app will allow visitors to view in real time access availability and to make reservations.

Javea also wants EU cash to pay for the traffic controls it deploys every summer on access roads to the popular beaches of Granadella and Barraca.

The biggest spend would be on €2.5 million of improvements to busy Avenida Mediterraneo to convert it into a coastal path that would be safer for pedestrians.

Javea council also wants the EU to fund the €1.4 million conversion of the Cap de Sant Antoni lighthouse into an environmental and marine visitor centre.

A further €1.6 million would go towards energy-efficient lighting and installing information boards to raise awareness of the natural environment.

On the outside, its 12 slender pillars represent an allegory of the 12 apostles. Inside, its cement and red pine wood interior is said to represent a fishing boat, with the light penetrat -

ing through the skylights in the form of jets, sliding down the pillars and giving the building its boat keel shape.

It is a must visit from 9am to 8pm all year round.

Advantage Building Surveys

SAFE AS HOUSES

Better be safe than sorry by getting a proper structural survey done

THE Costa Blanca has stayed ever popular as an investment and lifestyle hotspot for buyers from both the UK, EU countries and the US.

Brexit and a pandemic have actually increased demand, and estate agents have a shortage of properties, with property values and speed of sale being greater than ever. Alternative investments like crypto currency and stocks have been performing badly, whilst bricks and mortar investments have proved to be literally ‘as safe as houses’. With increased newbuild costs, most buyers are still getting great deals on resales (at well under the true cost of the building and plot). Importantly however, they need to know what they are really purchasing and whether their chosen property has significant defects that could prove costly to correct.

A structural survey not only highlights defects, but will provide estimated costs of the works required, which can be used to negotiate the price. Typically this achieves a better deal for the buyer, which more than covers the survey fee.

If you are concerned about structural stability, damp, mould risk, concrete decay, termite attack, pool and retaining wall stability etc. be sure to include a professional structural survey when buying.

See advert below for more information and how to contact Mark Paddon about arranging a structural survey

Mark Paddon BSc Hons. MCIOB. CAAT. is a British Building Surveyor and Spanish registered Arquitecto Tecnico, insured via Lloyd’s of London. He has been working on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida for over 20 years carrying out buyers structural surveys and providing general property purchase and insurance claims. (Thermal camera inspection is also included).

Whether its an old town house, apartment or luxury villa every property purchase represents a considerable investment and deserves a close inspection for defects such as damp, termites, subsidence etc. Specialist structural assessment of problem retaining walls and swimming pools is also undertaken.

Fast turnaround video survey options now available.

FREE buyers guide available via website. Initial telephone and email advice is FREE.

Señora de Loreto brings a touch of the avant-garde

If you are buying property in Spain or have problems with a property you already own, a professional structural survey can help identify and record defects whilst suggesting remedial solutions and cost implications.

HASTA LA VISTA

La Granadella

THE challenge starts in the 700ha Granadella Forest Park, a scrubland still recovering from a forest fire in 2016 that decimated the area.

The most challenging partthe route, this walk through scrubland can be steep and rocky, though the lack of trees offers sublime views all the way down to Javea’s amazing Playa de la Granadella. (above).

After a short scramble up the hill from the beach the Mediterranean arrives like a balm for sore bodies out from Castell de la Granadella viewpoint.

CHALLENGE: The route takes in 15 viewpoints as it winds along the coast

La Falzia

THE woods around La Falzia viewpoint are the only forested area on this otherwise highly-developed coastline. But with sunrise views over Porticholl island, who can blame residents for choosing such an inspiring vista ear-

The

Mirador

challenge may be gruelling at 30kms long, but the views more than make up for it

VISTAS are places for dreamers as well as the adventurous, looking for something different.

They are also perfect places to show off on Instagram and Facebook - and to get in your minimum 10,000 steps a day.

The Mirador Challenge helps you with those… and a lot, lot more.

First created by British expats Mike and Fay Smith over a decade ago, it traces 15 viewpoints (miradores) along the dramatic limestone coastline cradling Javea.

The route covers 29km and promises some of the best scenery in Spain.You can of course do parts of it, or the whole lot in one day if you get your skates on early. Here, we pick out our favourite sections.

ly in the day.The water is so crystal clear you can almost see the fish, and you probably would quite rapidly if it wasn’t for wooden barriers keeping you from the sheer cliff-edge. A great place for walking, La Falzia is only a

Cabo de la Nau C

stone’s throw from the Playa de la Barraca, which offers a secluded bay for swimming in the summer months. From this, the seventh viewpoint, you drop down to Javea and along the coast to the port.

ABO de la Nau is the name given to this whole headland south of Javea.

The protruding cliffs here mark the closest point on the Costa Blanca to Ibiza, which can be seen on a clear day across the shimmering blue. But Cabo de la Nau also refers to a high, rocky outcrop boasting two restaurants, Cabo de la Nau and Mirador de Javea, with unbeaten views over the Med.

The viewpoint itself, the fifth on the challenge, is bejewelled with purple clumps of toothed lavender—a rare, endemic species that is separate to the more common English lavender seen in ornamental gardens.

Cala Ambolo

THE third viewpoint looks out over the Isla del Descubridor (Discoverer’s Island), allegedly named after a Javean sailor who accompanied Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to the Americas.

A more shocking discovery for anyone who decides to take a pair of binoculars, however, would be the nudist beach at the foot of this cliff. The real crown jewels is the dramatic coastline stretching east of the Ambolo viewpoint, locked in a perpetual battle with the sea that happily produces the shingled beaches enjoyed by the fully-clothed and nudist alike.

Cabo San Antonio

FROM the port you have the final climb up the winding footpath to the top of Cabo San Antonio which offers perhaps the most stunning, near-360 degree views on the Javea coastline. From Ibiza to the east, the whole of Javea beneath you, and the Montgo mountain to the west, this is a true dreamer's paradise. From here, you can see how the citrus groves just outside the old town of Javea find sanctuary in this valley from the hard limestones cliffs that confront the sea like a rampaging Spanish bull. And as you gaze longingly over the town, it won’t be long before you’re enticed back into one of its bars to remind your battered body why beer is best served ice-cold.

In expert hands

British education in an international familiar environment of academic excellence with incredible facilities to foster learning

FOR over 35 years Lady Elizabeth School has been offering British and international private education for children from 2 to 18 years old, with a unique educational experience in English through what we call ‘Amazing Learning’: learning based on discovery and growth, blending innovative methodologies with an international perspective. The goal of LES is to build a community of open-minded long life learners, ready to thrive and contribute in today’s global context: Innovative Learning & International Mindset. Independent, curious and active students who find their way within the multiple academic options we offer. Through constant immersion in English and in an environment of academic excellence, we prepare them to unleash their full potential and inspire them to grow globally. We use a curriculum based on UK national standards and define, design, deliver and demonstrate learning through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), our Key Stage 3 curriculum and then UK GCSEs and A-levels.

Broad GCSE and A Level offer to suit all academic paths

We have a wide range of over 20 subjects on offer - from the arts to the sciences with subjects such as Marine Science, Photography, Business, Graphic Design or Tourismfor GCSE and A Levels. Based on the British system, we also offer the Tests of Specific Competences (PCE) in Baccalaureate, thus ensuring access to the best universities in the world including Spanish ones.

Lady

Student life beyond class

We promote a student life beyond the classroom to extend the learning process. More than 40 extracurricular activities under our Plus Clubs - arts & crafts, sports, swimming, stock exchange, robotics, board games, filming and much more! -, business trips, sports and cultural activities, the Student Body, or awards such as Duke of Edinburgh Award. As part of the ISP group we also offer international opportunities for students within the ILOS program with 11 proposals such as ISP Virtual Buddy Exchange, ISP Maths Challenge, ISP Model United Nations or I am an ISP Scientist. We also offer ISP Future Pathways, a tailored career program for students ages 5-18 to support each ISP student in making informed decisions to succeed now and in the future.

Best in class facilities

Our 28,000 m2 campus includes 2 swimming pools, 2 libraries, 2 orchards, sections by educational stage, sports hall, basketball court, soccer field, playgrounds, digital whiteboards, 2 dining halls, computer classrooms, music classrooms, psychomotor classroom, childcare room, physics, biology/chemistry, food science and robotics labs, recording studio, theatre and dance room, photography studio, and auditorium with seating for 400 people. School residence (boarding school).

Amazing language offer

We offer English, Spanish, French, German with the option to study any mother language. Russian school on Saturday & active support of study groups for other mother languages.

JUST PERFECT!

No wonder so many people are attracted to Javea

WHY do people come to Javea? Why do they invest their money in property in this small Mediterranean town over many others? What is it about Javea that brings people here on holidays, makes them retire and invest here or to relocate here with families?

Julie Jones, the owner and founder of Alta Villas, a thriving and busy estate agency based on the Arenal beach in Javea, believes that the answer is simple.

“It is because Javea has it all.

Fabulous weather, gorgeous scenery, wonderful beaches, a rich history and culture, with the perfect infrastructure for foreign and local visitors and residents.

“I firmly believe that Javea deserves its reputation as the Costa Blanca’s ‘Jewel in the Crown’. It is for all of these reasons that I came here with my family in 2008, and I think it is the same for all the expat colleagues, friends and associates I have known over the years.

“At the time of writing this article, the weather is gorgeous, a balmy 25 degrees, sunny with clear blue skies – not bad for mid March!”

Julie adds: “It is perfect weather for horse riding in the beautiful Javea countryside. When I consider that in the UK it is snowing in most areas today, I appreciate Javea all the more.

“In the 14 years I have had Alta Villas, I am proud that my team and I have helped hundreds of people achieve their goals relating to buying and selling property here in Javea.

“I particularly like to help people to relocate here and always go that extra mile to support them in this.”

Julie continued: “Sometimes it is a buyers’ market, other times, such as now, it is more favourable to vendors, but always our job at Alta Villas is about helping people transition through this potentially stressful process. This is not just a job to us. It is the way we get to enjoy our perfect place in the sun.”

If you are looking to buy or sell property in Javea and surrounding areas or would simply like to talk to Julie and the team for advice, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Alta Villas.

Office: +34 965 796 311

WhatsApp: +34 635 720 355

Email: office@altavillas.com

Website: www.altavillas.com

Loyalty rewarded

Mark Petrie brings more than 50 years experience to his clients and a helping hand to Britons

MARK Petrie moved to Spain when he was just 11 years old and opened his first business here in 1977. Today he counts on hundreds of loyal clients from all over Spain and has rightfully been recognised in the UK with an MBE for his services to expats.

So, it's no surprise to discover that Mark is also Denia's Honorary British Consul - a

safe pair of hands to turn to in a time of crisis.

His company, Mark Petrie Insurance Brokers, brings more than 50 years of experience offering clients the best available policies tailored to their individual needs. With offices in Javea and Denia, his experienced team offers a wide range of insurance services from car, home, health and boat insurance, to legal assistance

policies.

Because the brokerage is not affiliated to any company, it can offer the most appropriate policies on the market to suit individual needs at the most competitive prices. His team of five works with all the leading agents such as Liberty, Allianz, Plus Ultra, Reale, Zurich, DKV, Salus and many more to offer a personalised service from day one.

“Each policy is tailored to what the customer needs and wants, and we are very expat orientated,” explained Mark. While we have many clients here, we have others from as far away as Galicia, Madrid, Sevilla and Málaga. By reducing response times and with an insurance programme run by professionals, our clients get the most out of any policy that they take out.

3 BEDROOM APARTMENT | JAVEA REF. AVS 55425

Fantastic ground floor garden apartment for sale in one of the best residential areas of Jávea only 400 metres from the sandy Arenal beach. 375.000€

3 BEDROOM VILLA | JAVEA REF. AVS 54094

Exclusive listing. Immaculate 3 bedroom villa for sale situated in the charming La Mandarina residential area overlooking Jávea Golf Course. 545.000€

3 BEDROOM VILLA | JAVEA REF. AVS 55364

A traditional and spacious front line villa with sea and mountain views and surrounded by green zones. In the residential area of La Cala. 799.950€

5 BEDROOM VILLA | JAVEA REF. AVS 54915

Large, private villa in the exclusive area of Cuesta San Antonio, close to the lighthouse and with spectacular views over the bay of Jávea.

2,490.000€

GOING SOLAR:Yourtop questionsanswered

SOLAR energy has been gaining popularity as an affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional electricity sources. But if you're considering going solar, you may have some questions about how it works, how much it costs, and what benefits you can expect.

In this article, we'll answer the top 10 questions people have about solar power, based on our expertise and experience in the industry.

Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or just curious about solar energy, read on to learn everything you need to know before making the switch to solar.

1 - HOW DO I KNOW WHAT SIZE SYSTEM I NEED?

Where possible, we like to start by looking at an electricity bill where we can see the last 12 month usage, combined with a discussion with you about your past and future energy needs. If a previous bill is not available or relevant, then we will use our experience and expertise during the survey process to provide the best recommendation to you.

2 - WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM?

Solar panels: These are the main components of the system that capture the sun's energy and convert

it into electricity. Inverter: This device converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used in your home or business.

Monitoring system: This allows you to track the performance of your solar panel system and monitor the amount of energy it generates.

Batteries (optional): If you want to store the energy generated by your solar panels for later use, you can install a battery bank to store the energy.

3 - HOW MANY WATTS DOES A PANEL PRODUCE?

The new generation of panels produces between 450w and 550w. We mostly use 550w panels to produce more energy, using less space, which makes future expansion possible.

4 - DO I NEED SOLAR PANELS FOR THE HOT WATER OR THE POOL PUMP?

The new solar panel systems supply the house with energy for everything that uses electricity, such as the hot water cylinder, the pool pump, the air conditioning, or electric heating.

5 - HOW DOES A FEED IN TARIFF WORK?

The system does this automatically.

There is a device called an energy meter that controls the energy flow in the installation. For example, if the system is producing 5 kW and the house needs 3 kW, it takes 3 kW to cover the consumption of the house and sends the other two to the grid. Conversely, if it produces 2 KW and the house needs 5 KW, the system consumes the 2 KW and imports the other 3 KW from the grid.

6 - DOES THE ELECTRICITY COMPANY PAY ME FOR THE ENERGY I PRODUCE AND DO NOT USE?

Yes. Electricity companies offer a program called "net metering" or "feedin tariff" which allows homeowners or businesses with solar panels to sell excess energy back to the grid. Under these programs, if you produce more energy than you use, the excess energy is sent back to the grid and you receive credit from your electricity company for the energy you produce.

7 - CAN MY ELECTRICITY BILL GO TO 0€ INCLUDING FIXED COSTS?

Yes, we work with a few electricity companies that use a mechanism called ‘virtual battery’. It is a kind of virtual wallet that accumulates credit from the sale of surpluses. At the end of the month, if we have

100€ and the bill is 60€, 60€ of the credit will be used to cover the total bill and we will have 40€ left for the following month.

8 - HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECOVER THE INVESTMENT ON SOLAR PANELS?

The time it takes to recover the investment on solar panels depends on various factors such as the cost of installation, energy usage, and government incentives. Generally, when we scale a system for our clients, their return on investment is between 4 and 5 years. That's not counting grants or surplus sales, which would make that return on investment even faster.

9 - ARE BATTERIES NEEDED?

Not necessarily. You can start with a system without batteries. Once installed, we can analyse the data, look at the production and consumption, and as the system is easily expandable, you can add batteries later if necessary.

Normally, the feed in tariffs from the electricity company covers a large part of the night-time usage.

10 - WHAT ARE THE SUBSIDIES IN SPAIN FOR SOLAR INSTALLATIONS?

Normally, each town hall offers a discount on the IBI.

Then, there are the subsidies from the European funds that offer 600€ per KW installed for panels and 400€ per KW for batteries.

If you're interested in going solar after reading this article, we have a special offer for Olive Press readers like you.

Simply use the coupon code ‘OLIVE 10’ when you contact us for a solar consultation, and you'll receive a free survey of your property's solar potential, plus a direct discount of 250€ off your solar installation. This offer is available for a limited time, so don't wait to make the switch to solar and start enjoying the benefits of clean energy for your home or business.

Solar Panels Systems | Air Source Heat Pumps Pool

Heaters

WHERE TO EAT

Javea is becoming a

THERE is a quiet revolution going on in the charming back streets of Javea.

Not content to count on its two Michelin-starred joints, BonAmb and Tula, the fast-growing resort is developing a food culture to rival anywhere on the Costa Blanca.

“It’s amazing how much it has changed in the nine years I’ve been here,” explains expat chef Robert Mcteague, who owns two restaurants in Javea old town with his wife, Andrea.

“There is so much healthy competition now and everyone is doing their own thing,” continues the Irishman, who ran restaurants back home and in Italy for over a decade before moving to Javea.

“It’s a really cosmopolitan place and best of all it is not expensive, even the Michelin-starred Tula, where we ate a lovely long meal with two bottles of wine for just €250 recently,” adds the father-of-two.

Sandwiched between sea and sierra, it is no wonder

Javea has the best of both worlds when it comes to ingredients.

Split between its three distinct areas, the port, the Arenal and the old town, you have everything from tapas joints to formal sit downs.

By a long way my favourite is stunning BonAmb (www. bonamb.com), which manages to combine the best quality local ingredients, with creative cooking and amazing ambience.

The two-Michelin star restaurant is an experience that any genuine gourmet will need to try out.

As well as its stunning architecture and

Dining revolution

grounds, the kitchen guarantees a journey through the senses, like nothing else on the Costa Blanca.

Creative and inspiring and continually fighting for its third star (which must be fast approaching), its head chef Alberto Ferruz does the Valencian community proud, showcasing mostly local dishes.

Having partly-trained in Paris and San Sebastian as well as nearby with Denia’s culinary king Quique Dacosta, you are in safe hands.

There is lots of fish and plenty of fruit and veg and the restaurant’s Maitre

Pablo Catala is one of the most interesting restaurateurs in Spain, having worked as a cameraman in war zones, including Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia, and then as an army press officer.

Its main rival is Tula, which has had a Michelin star since 2019 and is known for its simplicity and excellent use of local ingredients. Run by Borja Susilla and Clara Puig, it regularly changes its ingredients and is a breath of fresh air in the busy Arenal area.

Among other places you have to try are Robert Mcteague’s very own Carneceria tapas bar, on the outskirts of the centre.

This hip new joint is set up in a former butcher’s shop that first opened in the 1950s and

counts many of its original features, such as counter, floors and even its ancient walk-in fridge. The sign outside says it all, while Robert continues the authenticity, making his own bacon, ribs and sausages and featuring a simple menu to go alongside a nice array of tapas plates.

It’s a great place to while away a few hours and has plenty of local wines by the glass, as well as Guiness on tap, as you’d expect from a West Coast of Ireland native. Don’t forget ‘Taco Thursdays’, while there are other fun nights in the offing for the Spring.

His other place, mostly run now by his friendly Romanian wife Andrea, is La Sucreria in a prime location next to Javea old town’s main church. It has an excellent mix of dishes and is always busy. Among other exciting places to try out are Volta i Volta, run by a Valencian chef and his Italian wife Marguerita from Verona. Focussing on great local ‘KM0’ produce, expect plenty of pickles, conserves, syrups and marinades. Es Tapa Ti on the Arenal is also good.

In terms of country joints, El Campo, takes some beating with its charming garden and experienced local chef Amanda Trenco, 40, who knocks up a great mix of Asiatic twists and a solid a la carte menu, with such joys as shrimp gyozas with spinach and roast suckling pig with apple and red berries. There is even an occasional Mexican special menu.

Heading into Javea port you should look

Continues overleaf

As a private chef, my team and I offer catering services in your home, garden or place of business for all occasions.

In our shop in the Arenal, Jávea we have a fresh salad bar, ready-made meals and a list of other dishes that are posted daily on Instagram and Facebook such as vegan, vegetarian, meat, fish and seafood dishes plus a choice of desserts. We also make bespoke party and wedding cakes for those very special occasions!

We look forward to taking you on A Food Adventure!

Catering4u, Avda del Plà 121, Jávea/Xàbia

Tel / WhatsApp: +34 688 684 674

Facebook: Catering4UJavea

Instagram: afoodadventurejavea

Website: catering4u.es

Family friendly local bar under new owners Stephen and Christina as of 2019

English Fry-Up, Sandwiches, Wraps, Burgers, Salads, Pies, Fish & Chips

Weekly Changing Specials

Daily Baked Croissants

Fun Quiz Nights

Every Tuesday & Thursday evening Sunday Roasts twice a week!

Park your broom and sit for a spell

Check our Facebook page for more info

tel: +34 965 79 69 10

WhatsApp: +34 686 64 01 23

lancashirebrujajavea@hotmail.com

Carretera Cabo La Nao-Pla, 123 Urb Moreras del Saladar, local 24 03730 Jávea

WELCOME: To Jon from chef Alberto at BonAmb (right) and mushroom dish

real gourmet hive with a range of chefs vying for attention, writes Jon Clarke

Robert at Carniceria makes his own bacon, ribs and sausages

EXCITING: Robert Mcteague and his new bar Carneceria

WHERE TO EAT

FOOD TOUR

out for popular tapas bar, Andares Ibericos, opposite the cinema that specialises in excellent ham and cheeses and great light bites.

A friendly, family-run place it has real charm and an excellent selection of wines by the glass.

The best spot to enjoy wine is at the Bonapata, which describes itself as a ‘boutique bar of grapes and acorns’ just up the road, also in the port. There are around 70 different wines by the glass, not to mention an amazing selection of pates, cheeses and, best of all, the best Jamon Iberico, from the Val de Pedroches, in Cordoba.

The Spanish couple who run this place have just opened a new place up on busy Arenal, which will also likely do very well.

Another great spot, always busy, and an excellent spot for burgers and light snacks is Geographic, which always has all sporting events on a huge range of televisions.

BUSTLING: Andares Ibericos is always busy, while (right) tomato dish at Bonapata

And make sure you drop into the excellent Lancashire Bruja, just opposite the tennis club, where well established local expats Stephen and Christina serve up sell out roast dinners and all your British favourites including fish and chips and the classic English fry up, of course. The couple also organize the town’s popular New Years Day swim. Finally down on the beach there are two chiringuitos, one La Siesta that really gets going in the summer when it is

THE place to hang out and be seen and Thalassa, which sits halfway along the road from Arenal to Caleta de Dins. Named after the Greek word for ‘sea’ it is exactly that, dominated by the ocean, and with a seafood style menu to match.

WHERE TO STAY

The best places to stay in Javea, writes

Jon Clarke

UNWIND AND RELAX

AS one of Spain’s emblematic towns - like Ronda, Toledo and Santiago - Javea rightfully counts on a Parador.

Yet, surprisingly, the popular Valencia resort has a real paucity of good places to stay. Assuming you don’t have a few hundred euros per night to splash the cash, the 1969-built Parador is out of most people’s budgets.

By far the best value option is Javea Hotel (www.hotel-javea.com) in the heart of the port, next to the stunning Nuestra Señora de Loreto church and a short 100m walk from the beach.

While some of the rooms are small, it is stylish and friendly and counts on its own restaurant on the roof with a stunning sea view.

It is also next to the celebrated VO cinema and walking distance to a dozen good places to eat, not to mention with air-conditioning and WIFI in the room.

Another great value spot is Quinta la Sal (www.quinta-la-sal.hotel-in-valencia.com) that sits right at the other end of the town in the hills above the Arenal area.

Set in pine woods, full of red squirrels and birds, it is just a short walk from breathtaking Playa de Ambolo and a

five-minute drive to Granadella beach.

Each of its dozen or so casitas are well appointed and have plenty of outside space and shade, plus a nice pool to chill out by.

A step up in quality and a little bit in price is the stylish Ritual de Terra Resort and Spa (www.ritualdeterra.com), a hotel to cleanse your mind and unwind.

This dreamy spot is surrounded by nature and focuses on wellness, as well as making the most of its lovely views towards the sea and the faraway Montgo mountain. There are yoga classes twice a week, meditation classes, as well as wellness workshops and a fascinating ‘gong vibrational sound bath’ which is said to reduce stress, aid sleep and encourage creativity.

The spa counts on a massage suite, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, as well as an indoor pool and there are plenty of face and body treatments available. With quality linen, super king size beds as well as a great wonderful central pool area, tennis and padel courts, you should end up feeling both energised and pampered.Meanwhile its new restaurant MADRE serves Mediterranean classics, with mostly seasonal ingredients.

VISTAS: Ritual de Terra is incredibly well appointed

COMFORT: Quinta la Sal, while (top) Javea hotel