One of the most picturesque towns located on Costa Blanca is Moraira. The town is located 80km from Alicante City and 100km from Valencia City, and lies within a short distance from other popular destinations such as Javea and Benidorm. Moraira which was formerly a quaint fishing village has flourished into a popular tourist destination which still maintains its small town charm. Situated between the mountains and the sea the town boasts of natural beaches, rocky bays and enchanting coves to explore, and not to say the least one of the best climates in the world with over 300 days of sunshine with a average yearly temperature of 18 degrees.
Moraira is a wonderful holiday destinations as it still has kept its local charm and has not become exploited like many other areas. There are no big hotel complexes intended for mass tourism which makes the genuine Spanish lifestyle and culture become more visible and apparent than in other destinations. The perfect way to enjoy the beauty and the Spanish way of life in this fishing village is by renting a holiday home in Moraira.
Beaches
The beaches of Moraira.
There are four main beaches that you cannot miss when visiting the area. All beaches offer great facilities and services but best of all are the stunning views over the golden sand that then follows into the clear turquoise water. An excellent place to enjoy the sun and tranquility.
L´Ampolla Playa
L´Ampolla Beach is the most famous beach in Moraira and is the ultimate family beach. It is the only beach that is located within walking distance from the centre and is just at the foot of the Castle of Moraira.
El Portet Playa
If you are looking for a picturesque quiet cove with fine sand and crystal clear water then El Portet beach is where you should be heading. Located between the harbor of Moraira and the Cap d´Or tower this is one of the outstanding places to enjoy a tranquil day on the beach. Many cozy café´s overlook the nice views over both the beach and the ocean.
Platgetes Playa
Parallel to the coast road that goes from Moraira to Calpe lays the “cosmopolitan” beach of Platgetes. This sandy/rocky beach is a popular place for both the locals and foreigners. Along the beach there is a promenade that is ideal for relaxing walks or to try one of the many bars and restaurants for a bite to eat with a refreshing drink.
Playa del Andragó
Also known as L´Andragó beach. This beach is a pebble stone beach that is famous for being a quieter beach then the others on the coast. L´Andragó is a great spot for practicing water activities and the beach also has a parking area and various restaurants.
A Crystal Clear Water Paradise.
Attractions
Castillo de Moraira
The Castle of Moraira.
The Castle of Moraira was built in the 18th century and stands on the hill by the L´Ampolla beach, and was built for protection against the Berber pirates. The royal coat of arms of the Bourbons hangs over the entrance and states the year 1742, which is believed to be the year in which the construction work was completed. The castle is built in an unusual shape with one semicircular façade and another straight façade. This peculiar shape is known as “Pezuña de Buey” which mean ox hoof.
Torre de Vigilancia del Cap d´Or
The Watch Tower of Cap d´Or.
At the highest point of the Cap d´Or stands the watch tower reaching a height of 11 meters. Located at the edge of the rocky coastline stands the protective tower which was used to defend the town against Berber pirate attacks. An interesting aspect of the tower is that it is indeed solid and has no doorway. Back in the days a rope ladder was let down from above in order to ascend the tower.
The Local Fiestas
Spain is renowned throughout the world for their “Fiestas” and Moraira is no exception. The most important Fiestas in the area are without a doubt: San Vicente Ferrer and Moors and Christians. The place comes alive where the locals make fabulous costumes and organize large firework displays mixed with food, music and the lively Spanish spirit which allows everyone to join in and enjoy the celebrations.
The Moors and Christians
The Moors and Christians.
The Moors and Christians festival takes place every year during the second or third weekend in June. The Fiesta portrays the Moors invasion and occupation of Spain. During the fiesta the locals are separated into Moorish and Christian “Fila” (traditional groups) and hold marches and “battles” throughout the village dressed in spectacular costumes. One of the most anticipated events during the fiesta is the outstanding firework display and the procession on the last day of the event.
San Vicente Ferrer
San Vicente Ferrer takes place on the first Monday following Easter Monday and is a 10 religious fiesta in honour of the patron saint of Teulada, St. Vicente Ferrer , who was born and lived in the town. It includes street processions and participants in colorful traditional costumes, as there might not be that many tourists in the area around the time it is still a very traditional and local fiesta which makes it even more interesting to experience.
The Marina
The Moraira Harbour.
Moraira Club Nautico was built in 1985 and is one of the main nautical attractions in the Valencian Community. What makes a bit different is that it was the first to achieve the Blue Flag for the cleanest shorelines in Europe. It is a sport, leisure and social center which has a popular sailing school that opens in the summer, at Easter and on the weekends all year round.
Markets
If you like markets then there are three different ones that you should not miss during your visit in Moraira. At the markets you will find a great selection of fresh fruits and vegetables and also there are numerous stands selling different merchandise such as clothes, plants, bags, shoes, crafts, jewellery, toys and much much more.
The Local Markets.
Market in Teulada- Held every Wednesday morning this market is known as being a more traditional and local market, and does not get as crowded as the market of Moraira. Usually it tends to be the Spanish and the local ex-pats that buy at this market and the prices are lower than more touristic market of Moraira. The market is located in Calle Alicante from 08:00 to 14:00.
Market in Moraira- Held every Friday from 08:00 to 14:00. This market tends to get a little more crowded than the one held in Teulada, but there are still many great stands selling everything from vegetables to clothes at bargain prices. The market is held on part of the car park at Ctra. Moraira-Calpe.
Flea Market in Pedreguer- The flea market of Pedreguer attracts many visitors from around the area as there is a large variety of second hand items sold at this market at great prices. Stroll around and you will be fascinated by the variety of things sold to surprising prices.
Hi Louise,
You have done a very good job of creating the feel of Moraira!! It really is a beautiful place. I am biased of course, as I live here, but I am yet to meet a single person who comes here and doesn’t love it. Some say it is very similar to the South of France , but without the exorbitant prices for drinks and food. It has an up market feel but there is a terrific choice of accommodation, from luxury to basic, and bars/restaurants, shops etc available to suit all pockets.
There are no large holiday hotels or holiday complexes in Moraira, so people have to hire a privately owned villas or apartments, via companies like spain-holiday.com . In fact many of the holidaymakers renting here in the season, have discovered Moraira because they have family living here. . We have a really interesting mix of both residents and visitors- British of course, but also lots of French , Swedish, Norwegian, Danish and Madrilènes (Spanish from Madrid). It’s great for families and scenically romantic enough for a honeymoon or special anniversary. If you are ever in town please send me a message and I will buy you a glass of Cava at my favourite chill out bar, in our Marina.