A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Santa Pola: A Mediterranean Paradise in Alicante

Santa Pola, located in the province of Alicante, is a Mediterranean gem offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. This charming fishing village is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant port, and rich history dating back to Roman times.

Beaches of Santa Pola

The beaches of Santa Pola are one of the main attractions of the town. With over 13 kilometers of coastline, Santa Pola offers a wide variety of beaches to suit all tastes. From the peaceful Tamarit beach to the lively Levante beach, all of them are perfect for enjoying the sun and the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, many of these beaches have the Blue Flag, a recognition of the quality of their waters and services.

The Port of Santa Pola

The port of Santa Pola is another point of interest in the town. This port, one of the most important in the province of Alicante, is the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the sea breeze. In addition, from the port, you can take a ferry to the nearby island of Tabarca, a small island with unique charm.

Historical Heritage

Santa Pola has a rich historical heritage dating back to Roman times. Among the historical places of interest is the Villa Romana del Portus Ilicitanus, an ancient Roman settlement that offers a fascinating insight into the history of the area. Another place of interest is the Santa Pola Castle-Fortress, an impressive 16th-century fortress that houses a museum and offers spectacular views of the town and the sea.

Natural Park of the Salinas de Santa Pola

For nature lovers, the Natural Park of the Salinas de Santa Pola is a must-visit. This natural park is an important habitat for a wide variety of birds, including flamingos. In addition, the salt flats are a place of great beauty, especially at sunset, when the sun tints the waters with vibrant colors.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another attraction of Santa Pola. As a fishing village, Santa Pola offers a wide variety of dishes with fresh fish and seafood. Among the most typical dishes is the arroz a banda, a delicious rice cooked with fish broth.

In conclusion, Santa Pola is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore local history, enjoy nature, or savor local cuisine, Santa Pola is the perfect place for your next vacation.

Gastronomic Products of Santa Pola

• Fresh Fish and Seafood

  Santa Pola, being a fishing port, is famous for its wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Local restaurants offer a large selection of seafood dishes, such as prawns, shrimps, squids, and various types of fish, all locally caught and served fresh.

• Rices

  The Alicante region is known for its rice dishes and Santa Pola is no exception. Local restaurants offer a variety of rice dishes, such as paella, arroz a banda and black rice, all prepared with fresh and local ingredients.

• Salazones

  Santa Pola is famous for its salazones, a method of preserving fish that has been practiced in the region for centuries. The most popular products include mojama, made from tuna, and mullet roe. These salted products have an intense flavor and can be enjoyed alone or in a variety of dishes.

• Elche Dates

  Although technically not from Santa Pola, the dates from the nearby city of Elche are a local product worth mentioning. These dates are known for their sweetness and are used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to savory dishes.

Sporting Activities in Santa Pola (Alicante)

Hiking

Santa Pola offers hiking routes along its coast and in the Natural Park of the Salinas. Visitors can enjoy stunning views and the opportunity to observe a variety of birds and wildlife.

Kitesurfing

Thanks to its weather conditions and its beaches, Santa Pola is an ideal place for kitesurfing. There are several schools that offer courses for all levels.

Diving

The crystal clear waters of Santa Pola are perfect for diving. Visitors can explore the underwater world and discover a wide variety of marine life.

Cycling

With a wide network of bike lanes and mountain routes, Santa Pola is a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the area at their own pace.

Places near Santa Pola

If you are in Santa Pola and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Alicante, a Mediterranean jewel in Spain, captivates visitors with its golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. The local cuisine, featuring paella, fresh seafood, and wines from the region, is a culinary experience not to be missed.

Elche, a Spanish gem, is famous for its UNESCO heritage, the Palmeral and the Misteri d'Elx. It is a gastronomic paradise, with delights such as the Ilicitana paella, dates and pomegranates, offering an authentically Mediterranean culinary experience.

Tabarca, the only inhabited island of the Valencian Community, Spain, is famous for its crystal clear waters, its rich pirate history and its exquisite cuisine, highlighting the Tabarcan cauldron, a traditional fish dish that delights all visitors.