This little fishing town in Valencia is home to some of the most popular, award-winning beaches on the Costa Blanca. But in recent years, it’s become most recognisable for its rainbow-painted houses.
The Spanish province of Alicante is home to some of Spain’s best coastal towns and resorts, but this might be the prettiest of them all. Alicante is home to the Costa Blanca (White Coast) that encompasses over 124 miles of stunning Mediterranean coastline.
Some of the most popular destinations on the Costa Blanca are Benidorm—the seaside resort town famous for its palm-lined promenades and British pub experience—and Calpe, which is easily identified by the Mediterranean’s most famous geological feature, the Rock of Ifach.
Villajoyosa offers a quieter but equally stunning alternative to the resort towns of the Costa Blanca. Situated in the Marina Baixa region, Villajoyosa (La Villa Joiosa, in Valencian) is home to award-winning beaches, as well as rows of colourful houses and a rich fishing heritage.
The town is said to have been coveted by Aragonese and Arabs in the Middle Ages, which is the reason for its defensive urban layout. There are sections of a medieval defensive wall that can be found in Villajoyosa and the town’s old centre has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.
The famous Levantine Wall is recognisable from its large tower and runs along the Calle Costera de la Mar which connects the city and central beach. Another historic landmark of the town is the church and fortress of Nuestra Senora de L Asuncion, notable for its impressive high walls and Gothic style. In addition to these historic landmarks, the town’s Aresenal district is beloved for its rainbow-coloured houses. There are duelling theories about the origin of the coloruful fishermen’s houses, some saying the bright colours were meant to guide fishermen home while others claim it was simply a way to use leftover boat paint.
In any case, the houses have become beloved by tourists and represent Villajoyosa’s fishing heritage. If you want an even better understanding of modern fishing life, head to the town’s port.
From the port of Villajoyosa, travellers can relax by the water and watch the fishing boats that arrive and depart every day, some from far out in the sea. Travellers, can also experience the fishing goods for themselves at the port’s fish market.
The beaches of Villajoyosa are one of the biggest draws of the town. There are plenty of beaches and coves to explore, five of which were awarded Blue Flags for their water quality and commitment to environmental protection.
Just past the port sit the giant La Vila beach (also known as Centro) and Paradis beach. Both beaches have been awarded Blue Flags and occupy a combined stretch of 2.5 kilometres of sand. A few other popular beaches include Varadero beach (also awarded a Blue Flag) and Esparrello Beach. Most Villajoyosa beaches offer modern amenities such as sunbed and parasol rental as well. The Racó del Conill cove on the eastern edge is another tourist favourite. Though keep in mind it is also beloved by nudists for its relative seclusion.
Alicante airport is Villajoyosa’s closest airport, 50 kilometres from town. Villajoyosa is also just a 50-minute tram ride from Alicante’s Luceros station, in case you’re interested in making it a stop on your next Valencian holiday.
