Javea is located between Denia and Altea, 80km north-east of Alicante. Holidaymakers can choose between Valencia or Alicante airports as it is equal distance (1 hours drive) from either. Javea boasts more hours of sunshine than any other Spanish resort (data from World Health Organisation) and is otherwise known as the "Jewel in the crown" of the Costa Blanca. Javea comprises three main areas, Javea Old Town, Arenal Beach and Port, each distinctly different but collectively offering something to suit all tastes.

Javea Old Town: A charming village with it's traditionally built houses & narrow streets which have helped it retain its Spanish feel. In addition surrounding developments have been carefully regulated to ensure no unsightly high-rise buildings. Javea's old town is about 2km from the coast and particularly busy on a Thursday when the towns market is held in the Plaza de la Constitucion!

Javea Port: To this day it is still a thriving fishing port which supplies local seafront bars, cafes and mainland Spain every day. After a bite to eat why not visit the marina with its variety of fishing boats and luxury yachts?

Arenal Beach: By far the busiest area of Javea, which isn't surprising with its beautiful sandy beach, hidden coves and promenade lined with bars, restaurants, cafes and gift shops. A huge variety of watersports can also be enjoyed here.

Activities: There is plenty to see and do, ranging from the beautiful 12th century architecture (church Iglesia de San Bartolome) to Javea's most distinctive feature, the mountain known locally as "Montgo". The Montgo is a prominent backdrop to the resort and features in the majority of holiday pictures at some point. Javea's residents think it looks like an elephant with its trunk dipping into the sea for a drink. Javea's Arenal area becomes a 24-hour playground during July and August. It can be noisy at night during those two months, but most of Javea's accommodation is located far enough away to relax in peace and quiet.

Restaurants: Javea's choice of restaurants is not just limited to Spanish tapas and Sangria. From pizzerias to indian, italian or chinese the choice is yours. Javea's port area is very popular, with restaurants offering anything from pizza to paella. The old town also has some restaurants which are cheaper than the more popular tourist areas. Arenal beachfront is where most tourists like to dine out and the choice is fantastic, from fast food to Indian.

Shopping: The port has a good choice of chic boutiques but for souvenirs it is best to head for the Arenal beach area with its many kiosks. In Javea's old town the indoor covered market opens daily and offers fresh produce. On Thursdays the weekly outdoor market on the Plaza de la Constitution is really entertaining, with street performers adding to the whole experience. Buy anything from fresh fish to leather sandals, toys to juicy Valencia oranges. It is important to remember that some shops tend to close for siesta from around 2pm to 5pm, but stay open late in the evenings.

Javea Accommodation: Accommodation is varied, with a large selection of villas and apartments and a selection hotels. Many Javea rentals are available for short and long terms lets. Properties can be found in central locations where a car is not required, or for a more peaceful holiday, a little further away from the main Arenal Beach area. Rent Javea villas beyond your dreams or opt for Javea apartment rentals near the beach in a central location.

Philip Buckland created spainrentalsdirect.co.uk 8 years ago. Javea accommodation is available for short and long term rentals http://www.spainrentalsdirect.co.uk/search/properties/list.c fm?TownID=11

Tags: travel, leisure