Fresh back from a dizzying 4000km family trip through some of Spain’s hidden gems in our classic motorhome, it’s time to talk about a Costa Blanca destination worth visiting.
Based on our own trip, this 3-day itinerary covers all the must-see experiences, attractions, and restaurants you should not miss in El Campello.
According to Wikipedia, the Costa Blanca (White Coast) comprises more than 200 km of the Mediterranean coastline in the province of Alicante, in southeastern Spain. It stretches from the town of Dénia in the north, beyond which is the Costa del Azahar, to Pilar de la Horadada in the south, beyond which is the Costa Cálida.
Somewhere in the middle of those two cities, discreetly hidden from mass tourism, El Campello remains a vacation paradise where you can rest and recharge with the 2,800 hours of sunshine that bless the city each year.
Separated from Alicante at the beginning of the 20th century, 72 hours in El Campello should be enough time – albeit brief – to appreciate the mark left on the region by a few of the civilizations that populated the Iberian Peninsula. Through this itinerary, we will go through some of them in chronological order.
Making the most out of 72 hours in El Campello
Day 1: First things first
Start your day in the water
Getting wet when water temperatures are as pleasant as El Campello’s is the best way to start your day. El Campello Surf Club rents SUP boards, surfboards, and kayaks to enjoy the city from the sea.
Guided tours and courses are also available.
Learn about history at Illeta dels Banyets
The oldest remains -belonging to prehistory, the Chalcolithic, and the Bronze Age- are found in the Illeta dels Banyets, a unique space to delve into history. Still in the process of being restored, this well-preserved Iberian settlement by the sea is considered one of the most interesting archaeological parks in the Mediterranean.
In addition to houses and warehouses -which indicate the existence of fishing industries and trade relations with other contemporary cultures- there are temples, fish farms, and even Roman baths with their corresponding caldarium, frigidarium, and tepidarium. They are known as Els Banyets de la Reina.
The best way to get to know the unique history of these remains is by joining a guided tour. Ours was led by Felipe of Tramuntana Aventura. You can get in touch with him via email felipe @ tramuntanaaventura . es or phone +34 601 171 481.
Check the town’s events going on during your visit
Without having planned it, we happened to visit the city during one of its most important festivals, Moors & Christians.
Surely there is something else going on at the same time as your visit. One thing is for sure: there is no better way to mingle with the locals!
Day 2: Getting up close and personal with the city
Wake up to a hike at Puntes de Gosálbez
Family-friendly, the 6km of the main hiking trail of Puntes de Gosálbez SL-CV 93 are recommended for those who want to start the day getting some exercise done before temperatures rise.
Whether you decide to walk or bike, exploring this area will let you enjoy the best views of El Campello and its coastline from above. And it’s a beginner’s friendly hike!
Explore the Barranc d’Aigües and Illeta Towers
Continuing with the exploration of the city through some of its most significant monuments, today is the day to visit two iconic towers that are part of the city’s emblem. Its construction was triggered by the raids and attacks of Barbary pirates on the coast.
Thus, during the 16th century, a surveillance system made up of circular towers was built along the entire Mediterranean coast to facilitate the defense of the territory. In El Campello it is possible to visit the Torre del Barranc d’Aigües and the Torre de la Illeta.
Built in 1557 and restored at the end of the 20th century, the latter is of great importance to the locals, who use it as the setting for different events throughout the year.
Stroll through the old town
The surroundings of the parish church, from the mid-nineteenth century, form the historic center. A walk through its streets, very different and less touristy than those that we can find by the sea, is an excellent way to delve into the life of the town.
Likewise, its restaurants and bars are a must to taste the local delicacies. Check some of our favorites a bit further down.
Day 3: Leaving on a high note
Start your day with a brunch by the sea.
Lazy mornings are the best. Especially if they are enjoyed next to the Mediterranean Sea on a terrace flooded with its unique light and with a delicious late breakfast or early lunch.
This is how brunch is at Xarxa, the restaurant at Hotel Jova Boutique. With unbeatable views and an extensive selection of fresh, sweet, savory products and gorgeous cakes that not only look good on Instagram but also taste great.
An essential stop in El Campello!
Avoid the heat by joining a Villa Marco guided tour
Although the so-called Huerta de Alicante was built in the middle of the s. XIX, it is at the beginning of the 20th century when its owner, the honorary consul of France, gives it a modernist touch with influences from French colonial art.
The best thing about this farm is its gardens. They include a good display of impressive trees, diverse flora, and sculptures.
Relax at the beach before leaving
Have you ever come across one of those destinations that makes you want to move and lead a slower and healthier life by the sea?
Large doses of vitamin D, good temperatures inside and outside the water, and a wonderfully pleasant rhythm of life await in El Campello beaches just 20 minutes away from Alicante.
Muchavista, Carrer de la Mar, and Cala del Llop Marí are three of the most visited beaches but with 23km of coastline, the options are many. Thus we recommend enjoying the dolce far niente on one of El Campello beaches before leaving. It is a surefire way to put this destination straight on your list of places to return to.
Where to eat in El Campello
Lunch at the cozy Merfín La Solera terrace
- Pl. de Canalejas, 5, 03560 El Campello
- Phone: +34 865 51 22 68
Tapas at Cervecería Paquito
- C. de València, 7, 03560 El Campello
- Phone: +34 678 49 65 21
Drinks overlooking the marina at the Chiringuito CNC (Club Naútico Campello)
- Carrer de la Illeta, s/N, 03560 El Campello
- Phone: +34 965 63 73 24
Sea-flavored dinner at Mash
- Carrer de Sta. Teresa, 43, 03560 El Campello
- Phone: +34 965 63 17 08
Where to stay in El Campello
Although there are numerous good accommodation options, here are our favorites:
Jova Boutique Hotel
- Carrer Sant Pere, 39-41, 03560 El Campello, Alicante
- Phone: +34 966 29 29 29 +34 672 27 08 21
This hotel recently renovated with a unique style is located on the beachfront for those seeking comfort and an incredible stay.
Hotel Mar Azul
- Carrer Sant Pere, 128, 03560 El Campello, Alicante
- Phone: +34 966 29 29 29
Balconies with views of the Mediterranean Sea or large interior terraces await you in these central apartments just a few steps from the beach. Ideal for families.
El Campello RV areas
For all the van lifers and campervan travelers out there, there are three different motorhome and camper park areas in El Campello. This blog post – albeit in Spanish – tells you everything you need to know about them.
When to visit El Campello
With very pleasant temperatures, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are two unbeatable times to enjoy El Campello. In autumn, during the first fortnight of October, the acclaimed festivity of Moors and Christians takes place, so book your stay in advance if you decide for this time.
Winter is a good option for those looking to spend the coldest season in the sun without the tourist crowds of some parts of southern Europe.
And finally, summer is reserved for those who are not afraid of high temperatures. Nonetheless, having the sea next to you permanently is a good way to cool off.
Feel free to use this itinerary to help you plan your own trip to El Campello. It is written from personal experience after exploring the city and is designed for first-time visitors. Also, if you have any tips to improve it, we will be happy to expand it. Email us at aworldtotravel @ gmail. com – thank you very much!
Disclaimer: We were invited by El Campello Turismo and Costa Blanca to experience the town last month as part of #ElCampelloEmotions destination marketing campaign. In any case, all opinions are our own.
