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Benissa is a small town in Spain in the province of Alicante, with a municipal area of 69.70 Kmē and 4 Km of coastline, 275 m above sea level, and one of the oldest towns on the Costa Blanca, with white sand and crystal-clear water, tall mountains, wide valleys with unusually green countryside all add to Benissa's unique appeal.
Some people describe Benissa as a "little Europe", because it is home to thousands of "euro-residents" from Germany, Scandinavia, Britain, Holland, Belgium.... who live in and around the town attracted by the beautiful countryside and coastline, the excellent climate and, until recently, relatively cheap property prices.
Benissa Attractions
The municipal boundaries of Benissa are irregularly shaped. The town has a historic old quarter and has taken great care to preserve its origins, with a large number of ancient buildings and monuments.
The medieval town centre has been largely preserved with its town square (plaza), narrow streets, churches. Ironwork balconies and heraldic shields decorate the historic buildings. The Palacio de los Torres-Orduna is open to the public as a cultural centre and library. Benissa also has a strong Catholic tradition with a Franciscan seminary that has educated many Franciscans followers throughout Spain and a large NeoGothic church, the "Cathedral de la Marina".
Travel to Benissa is easily made from Alicante or Valencia, through the highway A-7 or the N332. The closest airport is the Alicante airport, located 70 km to the south-west. The closest railway station is also in Alicante.
What to visit - Benissa: the old town, the beaches, finca La Cuta, a small paradise offering the best brunches on offer in the Costa Blanca. Jalon where much of the local wine is produced. El Penon de Calpe, a natural reserve home to many Mediterranean birds and plants.
Like all Valencian towns, Benissa's calendar of fiestas and cultural activities is an extensive one. The biggest, busiest and most traditional are the Fiestas for Patron Saint Purisima Xiqueta, the Moors and Christians fiestas and the Fair of San Antonio.
Where to stay- Benissa: El Hotel Cases de Sant Jaume, a lovely hotel with spacious rooms, a lovely swimming pool open and views of the mountains and the sea.
Where to eat - Benissa: Restaurante Casa Canto. Avda. Pais Valencia, 237; 03720 Benissa (Alicante); Tel: 965 730 629. Order local starters followed by a rice dish or grilled fish.
Benissa, a municipality with culture, history, sea, leisure activities and a rich tradition of gastronomy. A place to visit, enjoy and, of course, to come back to.
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