For more than 60 years, Spain's Costa Blanca has been one of the top sun and beach destinations in southern Europe. The first British tourists flew in during the late 1950s, and ever since UK holidaymakers have been surrendering to the charms of this stunning stretch of coastline. Covering more than 120 miles in the eastern coast of Spain, Costa Blanca is home to top-class attractions and has become the main asset of the sun-drenched Alicante province, where fragrant pine tree forests add a verdant touch to the landscape and contrast with the intense blue of the Mediterranean sea and skies. For the most part, tourists come here to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and to recharge their batteries with the region's world-famous sunny weather, but Costa Blanca caters to all traveller types, from families with young kids to couples on their honeymoon and including history buffs, gourmets, and those interested in an active holiday. The Costa Blanca's charm and natural beauty never get old, and the varied range of entertainment options on offer ensure that your holiday here will never get boring.

When to Go

The Costa Blanca's semi-tropical weather has turned this coastal region a favourite among sun-starved British holidaymakers. You can fly into the area anytime of the year and enjoy average temperatures that stay at a pleasant 20ºC, but Costa Blanca is especially popular during the summer. Between June and September, the most popular beaches fill up with tourists looking to soak up the sun. During the hottest summer months (July and August) daytime temperatures can reach the high 30s, but there is nothing that a dip in the sea cannot fix. Need more reasons to visit Costa Blanca? 300 sunny days every year (with some months offering up to 11 hours of bright sunshine a day) and sea temperatures in the mid 20s will surely be enough!

Where to Stay

Glitzy and cosmopolitan Benidorm is one of the most popular places to stay along the Costa Blanca thanks to its excellent selection of all inclusive resorts, which range from self-catering studios and one-bedroom apartments to the most luxurious beach hotels. Overall, the city's resorts are the best bet if you are looking for the best deals on a cheap family holiday during the peak summer season. Also ranking high for its cheap package holiday deals is Calpe, a mid-sized town that is favourite for off-season escapades. Mid-range and upscale accommodation tends to be clustered around the eastern side of town. On the other hand, if busy resort towns are not your kind of thing, your best choices are Altea and Albir. The former is just right if you fancy a change from staying in hotel chains or large resorts, as there are several boutique and 4-star hotels along the waterfront and in the old town. The latter is only a 10-minute drive from Benidorm, so you will have access to all the city amenities while staying in a much quieter environment. Generally speaking, the further south you go in Costa Blanca, the less crowded the resorts will be. Accommodation options in this medium-sized resort include apartment-style units overlooking the sea and 4-star hotels with full spa facilities and a choice of buffet and a-la-carte restaurants.

Attractions & Events

If you've come here with the intention of lounging on the beach, you will be spoilt for choice in Costa Blanca where more than 74 Blue Flag beaches await you. To help you choose, may we suggest the white sand beach in Albir, El Arenal beach, and the bustling Levante beach. Costa Blanca is also home to 22 golf courses (including the world-famous Real de Faula course, designed by Jack Niklaus) that attract over 1 million golfers every year. Other must-see attractions include:

• Calpe's Ifach rock (the region's most iconic landmark), which offers excellent panoramic views that are specially stunning at sunrise.
• Altea's pedestrianised old town, packed with beautiful architecture, whitewashed buildings, and cobbled streets.
• The Serra Gelada (Frozen Mountains) Natural Park, located within easy reach of Albir and perfect for a refreshing break from the midday heat.
• The medieval castle at Conde de Alfaz, near Altea.
• A of family-friendly attractions like the theme parks of Terra Mitica, Terra Natura, and Vergel Safari Park and the Aqualandia waterpark in Benidorm.

Key events not to be missed include Calpe's very own Oktoberfest, the medieval tournaments that take place at Conde de Alfaz castle, the Low Indie Music Festival (held every year around mid to late July), and the Costa Blanca annual fancy dress party, which takes place in mid-November and is set to become one of the largest events of its kind in Europe. Just like in other parts of the Valencian region, Costa Blanca is big on its Fallas, the world-famous festival that fills the streets with stunning firework displays, live music, and parades featuring giant papier-mache statues that are burnt as the celebration comes to an end.

Why go to Costa Blanca

Only 2.5 hours away by plane from the UK, there is a glorious stretch of coastline that offers a relaxing environment, affordable hotel accommodation, and sunny weather throughout the year. Costa Blanca is the place to go for the perfect holiday bliss under the Mediterranean sun. Now is the right time to book your trip, whether you have been planning your escape for months or are interested in a last minute holiday by the beach. To make sure that your holiday goes smoothly, book with Jetline to enjoy first-class service delivered by travel specialists, as well as ATOL protection on your next holiday to Costa Blanca.