Welcome to the Vega Baja area of the Costa Blanca, Spain. With an area covering 950km sq. It would be impossible to write about this eclectic mix of attractions from Guardamar del Segura down to Pilar de la Horadada in any detail. However, here is a taster of what you can find within this popular area of the Costa Blanca.
The rural area travels along the banks of the Rio del Segura where citrus trees grow in abundance. During the Spring the wonderful scent of the orange blossom wafts through the air, with the everpresent humming buzz of the bees collecting nectar for their future honey supplies it is an experience that signifies the Vega Baja. Also grown in abundance are artichokes, potatoes, brasicas and other fruits such as melons.
Surrounding the Vega Baja are outstanding mountain ranges one in particular known as the Sierra de Callosa, which people say looks like a sleeping elephant, is stunning and memorable in itself. There are hiking routes to the top which offer amazing views.
Some 27 villages and cities make up the Vega Baja Torrevieja being probably the most well know due to its popularity with holiday makers. It is a lowkey family resort with some great sandy beaches and an unusual but attractive sea front. Rock pools can be accessed with ladders which reveal all sorts of tiny marine life for all the family to explore. The salt lagoons on the outskirts have been designated a Natural Park who very often host a cloud of pink flamingos enjoying their favourite foods of algae, brine shrimp and aquatic plants.
For those nature lovers amongst us the nature reserve at La Mata is home to a wide variety of bird life where if you are lucky will catch a glimpse of the colourful bee eater flying over the grass land. Alternatively, La Embalsa de Pedrea in Torremendo offers wildlife walks and fishing.
The white, sandy beaches of Guardamar del Segura and Mil Palmeras are popular for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts and of course sun worshippers. There are many hidden coves along the coastline for those quieter moments of reflection or just to gaze out at the blue mediterranean losing yourself in the peace and tranquillity.
Cabo Roig and Punta Prima offer closed in beaches, which can be busy during the Summer months are great for swimming and the beach bars are handy for refreshments after a cooling dip or recovery from the evershining sun.
The history buffs amongst us will love the capital Orihuela City. Magnificent churches, monasteries and palaces attest to Orihuelas distinguished history. Set back from the coast this ancient capital can tell many tales where Spaniards have fought numerous battles on land and sea to protect their country through the centuries. The narrow streets are lined with little bars and restaurants and shops interspersed with faded palaces countless fine churches and other historical buildings that have since been turned into offices or requirements related to the modern world.
For the sporting enthusiasts there are lovely walks and countless cycle routes all around the Vega Baja and as cycling is a very popular national sport, cyclists are almost like protected species with cycle routes along all major roads. Tennis and Paddell courts are another well patronised sport but if you are a golfer then the Vega Baja offers some of the finest golf courses in Spain. There are numerous courses all with their own degree of difficulty and less taxing holes. La Finca golf course, situated just off the AP7 at the Algorfa turn off is one of the most popular and challenging courses offering a full 18 holes and will test the most talented golfer amongst you. The terrace bar which overlooks the golf course offers delicious food and snacks and of course, a wide range of liquid refreshments to enjoy whilst ruminating thoughts of your good or not so good fortune of the golf course.
All 27 towns and villages celebrate the local and national fiestas with the cellabration of the annual patron saint a definite mark on the fiesta calendar. With parades, parties, games and even concerts these celebrations can go on for two weeks or more bringing the whole community together to enjoy the celebrations. Visitors are always welcome and are encouraged to join into what will be a lasting memory to your visit to the Vega Baja.
