Moving northwards is Altea where development, in contrast to the skyscrapers of Benidorm, has been more controlled - making for a quieter holiday.  Over 200 steps lead up from the main shopping street to the Old Town where art galleries and craft studios mingle amongst the whitewashed houses with more traditional bars and restaurants.  At the highest point of town, you will find the Plaza de Nuestra Senora de Consuela offering a rather interesting church and lovely views over the surrounding district.

There is a pretty waterfront promenade for a gentle stroll and a choice of local beaches, although most tend to be pebbly.  Albir beach to the south, is probably the most popular.

Approximately 25km inland lies the walled town of Guadalest, once insurmountable and protected by the 12th century Castle of Saint Jose and the 11th century Alcozaiba fortress.  Although these magnificent structures now lie in ruins, the village remains a popular excursion.

The village of Calpe lies next to the Penon de Ifach, a huge volcanic rock which thrusts out the sea.  Visitors can climb to the top of this coastal landmark for spectacular views and glimpses of local birdlife.  Calpe itself is a popular resort, due in part to its long sandy beaches, again bordered by a pretty promenade.  There is a busy fishing harbour and daily fish auction which serves the many local restaurants - shellfish are a local specialty.   A stroll around the Old Town reveals traces of the ancient city walls as well as a watch tower and traditional church.

The maritime town of Javea enjoys the protection of the Mount Montgo and is still popular with the waterfaring fraternity with a marina and working harbour. The town has a long and interesting history, depicted by the architectural styles of the Old Town.  But time has not stood still here - there is a modern urban centre next to the harbour and the Church of Santa Maria with its expressionist boat-shaped design provides and interesting contrast to the 16th century fortified church of San Bartome.

Close by the Montgo National Park is worth a visit for its whitewashed windmills and stunning views along the coast.

The welcoming resort of Denia offers a pleasing combination of long sandy beaches and small rocky coves.  The coast offers a wealth of water-based activities including sailing, fishing and scuba diving whilst further inland visitors can enjoy golf, horse riding, hiking and cycling.  The safari park at Vergel is popular with families whilst culture vultures will enjoy a visit to the Town Hall to see the remains of the Roman temple to Diana.  The castle in the centre of town was built by the Moors in the 11th century, but now houses an interesting archaeological museum.

There is a working port with regular ferries to the Balearic Islands and fishing remains an important part of the local economy with a daily fish market.