Jávea

Jávea, known in Valencian as Xàbia, is a charming town located in the northern part of the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community, in the east of Spain. It lies at the foot of the imposing Montgó, a mountain that is part of the Montgó Natural Park, serving as a spectacular natural backdrop for the town. Jávea is situated in the Marina Alta region, between the capes of San Antonio and La Nao, giving it a rugged coastline with crystal-clear coves and fine sandy beaches, making it a very popular tourist destination.

The history of Jávea dates back to prehistoric times, with archaeological remains indicating human settlements in the area since the Paleolithic era. Throughout its history, Jávea has witnessed the passage of various civilizations, including the Iberians, Phoenicians, Romans, and Muslims, all of whom have left their mark on the local architecture and culture. During the Middle Ages, the town was fortified to protect against Berber pirate attacks, and today, its old town retains cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a fortress church, the Church of San Bartolomé, which dates back to the 16th century. This rich history, combined with its privileged natural surroundings, makes Jávea a place full of charm and tradition.

How to Get to Jávea

From Valencia or Alicante: Jávea is located approximately 100 km from both Valencia and Alicante, accessible via the AP-7, or by bus from both cities. If you're coming from Benidorm, you can take the N-332 or the AP-7 south, which will take you about an hour by car.

To reach Jávea by plane from the UK, the most convenient options are flying into either Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) or Valencia Airport (VLC). Both airports are well-connected to various cities across the UK with multiple direct flights daily.

Alicante Airport (ALC):
Alicante is the closer of the two airports to Jávea, approximately 90 km away, with a driving time of about 1 hour.
There are direct flights to Alicante from several UK cities, including London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. These flights are operated by airlines such as easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2, with flight times ranging from 2 to 3 hours.

Valencia Airport (VLC):
Valencia is slightly further, around 100 km from Jávea, with a drive taking approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Direct flights are available from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh, among others. Airlines like easyJet and Ryanair offer frequent connections, making it a viable alternative to Alicante.

Once you land at either airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or arrange private transportation to reach Jávea. The scenic drive along the Costa Blanca is part of the experience, offering beautiful coastal views as you approach your destination.

Without a car: If you prefer not to drive, there are regular buses connecting Jávea with Denia, Alicante, Valencia, and other nearby cities. From Denia, you can also take a taxi or use shared transportation services to reach Jávea. It's important to note that if you want to avoid tolls, you can opt for the N-332, though the journey is slower.

Areas and Urbanizations of Jávea

Jávea is divided into several areas and urbanizations, each with its own charm and unique characteristics. Here is a list of the main areas:

Main Areas

• El Puerto (Aduanas del Mar): One of the most vibrant areas of Jávea, with the fishing and sports port, as well as a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and La Grava beach.
• El Arenal: The most touristy area, famous for its fine sandy beach, surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants. It is the heart of nightlife in Jávea.
• El Casco Antiguo: Located inland, about 2 km from the sea, this is the historical area of Jávea, with narrow streets, stone buildings, and places of interest such as the Church of San Bartolomé.
• Montgó: At the foot of the Montgó Natural Park, this area offers a more rural and natural environment, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
• La Cala: Located south of the port, it offers access to coves such as Cala Blanca and Cala Sardinera, and is a quiet area ideal for those seeking a more natural setting.
• Montañar: This area is divided into Montañar I and Montañar II, known for their villas and apartments facing the sea. Montañar I is closer to the port, while Montañar II is closer to the Arenal. Both offer easy access to rocky beaches and are popular among residents looking to live close to the water.
• Piver: A residential area located in the upper part of Jávea, offering panoramic views and a quiet location, ideal for those seeking a peaceful life with easy access to the center of Jávea.
• Partida Comunes-Adsubia: A quiet residential area with large plots, ideal for families and those seeking privacy.
• Partida Tossal-Zona dels Castellans: This area offers sea and mountain views, combining the best of both worlds for a balanced life in Jávea.
• Granadella: Near the famous Cala Granadella, this urbanization is ideal for those looking for a quiet life close to nature.
• Ambolo: One of the most exclusive areas of Jávea, near Cala Ambolo, offering privacy and luxury.
• Portixol: Famous for its stunning sea views and proximity to coves like Cala Portitxol.

Most Famous Urbanizations

• Tosalet: One of the oldest and most prestigious urbanizations in Jávea, known for its Mediterranean-style villas, large gardens, and tranquility.
• Cansalades: Located in the upper part, this urbanization offers panoramic views of the Montgó and the sea, in addition to being a quiet residential area.
• La Corona: Situated on the slopes of the Montgó, this exclusive urbanization offers some of the best views in Jávea and features luxury villas.
• Cap Martí: Close to Arenal Beach, this area is popular among foreign residents, with a mix of villas and apartments.
• Balcon al Mar: Located in the southernmost part of Jávea, it offers stunning sea views and access to coves such as Ambolo and Granadella.
• El Toscal: A nearby urbanization to Arenal, popular for its tranquility and proximity to services and beaches.
• Puerta Fenicia: With an elevated location, this urbanization offers sea and mountain views, with easy access to both Arenal and the Old Town.
• Monte Javea: Located near Cala Granadella, this urbanization is known for its peaceful and natural environment.
• La Lluca: A luxury urbanization located inland in Jávea, ideal for those seeking privacy and large plots.
• Villes del Vent: A modern urbanization, with large plots and recent constructions, located between the Montgó and Arenal, combining modernity with the charm of Jávea.
• Mar Azul: Located on the seafront, this area is known for its exclusive villas with direct access to the water.
• Costa Nova: Situated in an elevated area, it offers impressive views and easy access to nature and nearby coves.
• Balcon de Javea: With stunning sea views, this urbanization is perfect for those seeking tranquility and spectacular landscapes.
• Rafalet: Known for its peaceful and natural environment, Rafalet is a popular urbanization for those seeking peace and proximity to nature.

What to See and Do in Jávea

Beaches and Coves

Jávea is famous for its crystal-clear coves and unique beaches. Here is the complete list of the main beaches and coves:

• Playa del Arenal: The only sandy beach in Jávea, El Arenal is ideal for families with a wide range of restaurants and services.
• Cala Granadella: Famous for its natural beauty and clear waters.
• Cala Portitxol (Cala Barraca): Notable for the iconic blue door and its fishermen's houses.
• Cala Blanca: Quiet and accessible, perfect for relaxing.
• Cala Sardinera: Ideal for those seeking a more natural environment.
• Cala Ambolo: A nudist beach with restricted access due to landslides.
• Cala Tangó (Cala del Ministro): Located near the port, surrounded by cliffs.
• Cala del Francés: Difficult to access, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
• Playa de la Grava: A pebble beach in the port, with all services nearby.
• Playa del Benisero: Ideal for outdoor dining in the summer.

Old Town and Museums

The historic center of Jávea is a gem to discover, with its cobbled streets, white houses, and historic buildings. Don't miss:

• Church of San Bartolomé: An impressive Gothic building from the 16th century.
• Soler Blasco Archaeological and Ethnological Museum: Housed in a 17th-century palace, it offers a fascinating look at local history.
• Municipal Market: A great place to discover local products and enjoy the architecture. It is held every Thursday in the old town and is perfect for finding fresh produce, crafts, and clothing.

Montgó Natural Park

The Montgó is one of the most outstanding places in Jávea for hiking enthusiasts. The trails offer spectacular views of the sea and mountains, with the hike up the Montgó being one of the most challenging but rewarding. The town has 15 official viewpoints offering unparalleled panoramic views. The Cabo de San Antonio is one of the most recommended.

Sports and Outdoor Activities in Jávea

Jávea is a paradise for sports and outdoor activity lovers. Thanks to its privileged location on the Costa Blanca, this town offers a wide variety of options to enjoy both on land and at sea. Among the most popular activities, golf stands out with the Jávea Golf Club, located just 7 km from Arenal Beach, where you can enjoy a 9-hole course with stunning views and a peaceful setting. For those who prefer racket sports, Jávea has several clubs and courts for tennis and paddle tennis, ideal for staying active under the Mediterranean sun.

Diving and snorkeling are musts in Jávea, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. Spots like Cala Granadella, Cala Ambolo, and Cova Tallada offer unforgettable experiences to explore marine life and underwater rock formations. Additionally, paddle surfing and kayaking are popular activities at beaches like Arenal and coves like Portitxol, allowing visitors to explore the coastline and discover sea caves and areas difficult to access by land.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Montgó Natural Park offers routes of varying difficulty levels, from gentle walks to challenging ascents to the summit of Montgó, with spectacular panoramic views of the coast and inland. This natural environment makes Jávea an ideal destination for both adventurers and those looking to relax while staying active.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Jávea is varied, with options for all tastes. In Arenal, you'll find numerous bars and nightclubs, while the old town and the port area are home to quieter tapas bars and locales. For younger crowds, the tardeo at the beachside chiringuitos is a popular activity, especially in the summer.

Other Leisure Options in Jávea

In addition to sports activities, Jávea offers other leisure options to enjoy with family or friends. Although the town doesn't have large shopping centers, just a few kilometers away is Portal de la Marina in Ondara, a shopping center that offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cinemas. This is an excellent option for those who want to combine a day of shopping with entertainment.

For movie lovers, near Jávea in Denia, you'll find the Autocine Drive-In, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Spain, offering a unique experience of watching movies from the comfort of your car.

Where to Stay in Jávea

Jávea offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets:

• Parador de Jávea: The only Parador in the province of Alicante, located on Arenal Beach, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean.
• Hotel Ritual de Terra: A boutique hotel with an elegant and relaxing atmosphere.
• Nomad Hotel: Combines luxury and comfort in the port of Jávea.
• Dionis Hotel Boutique & Spa: Specializing in wellness, with spa and massage services.
• Apartamento Quinta la Sal: Highly rated on Booking, ideal for comfortable stays close to the main attractions.

Where to Eat in Jávea

Jávea is a gastronomic paradise, with options ranging from beachside chiringuitos to Michelin-starred restaurants, such as BonAmb and Tula. Dishes like rice, suquet de peix, and cocas are must-tries. Other restaurants that you'll always find on the lists of the best restaurants in Jávea include:

• Restaurante La Fontana: Located on Arenal Beach, famous for its Mediterranean cuisine.
• Curry Palace: An excellent option for enjoying Indian cuisine.
• Buddha Palace: Offers a wide menu of Asian dishes.
• Royal Gurkha Cuisine: Known for its Nepalese cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Living in Jávea: Buying Property

Living in Jávea means enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in an impressive natural environment, with all the amenities of a modern city. Whether you're looking for a first or second residence in Jávea or an investment opportunity, the real estate market in Jávea always has something to offer for every type of buyer.

Jávea, or Xàbia, is not just a top tourist destination but also a place where more and more people are choosing to settle permanently. Living in Jávea offers an exceptional quality of life, with its Mediterranean climate, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming community. Whether you're looking for a luxury villa, an apartment near the sea, or land to build your dream home, Jávea has a wide real estate offer that caters to all tastes and needs.

Buying a House or Villa in Jávea

The real estate market in Jávea is very diverse, with options ranging from buying a house in Jávea in one of its exclusive urbanizations, to properties in more central areas like Arenal or the Old Town. Many of the villas in Jávea feature large gardens, private pools, and panoramic views of the sea or mountains. Areas like Tosalet, Balcon al Mar, and La Corona are especially popular among those seeking luxury residences. To find a house for sale in Jávea, people often search on Idealista or directly seek the assistance of a real estate agency in Jávea, like Luxinmo Real Estate.

Buying an Apartment in Jávea

For those who prefer to live in a more urban environment, apartments for sale in Jávea are an excellent option. Most of these apartments are located close to the main shopping and leisure areas, such as the Port and Arenal, ensuring proximity to all essential services. The apartments in Jávea are usually well-equipped, and many offer sea views, especially in areas like Montañar and the Port.

Buying Land and Plots in Jávea

If you dream of designing and building your own home in an idyllic setting, Jávea offers a variety of land and plots for sale. These plots are located in privileged areas, from the slopes of the Montgó to areas closer to the coast. Purchasing land in Jávea allows buyers to build a property that perfectly suits their needs and desires, in a location that offers tranquility, security, and an incomparable natural environment.

Practical Tips

Where to park in Jávea: During the high season, it is advisable to arrive early at the coves to find parking, as the capacity fills up quickly.

Climate: Jávea enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination year-round.

For living or buying: Jávea is also an excellent place for those looking to purchase a property or live in a peaceful and natural environment. The range of villas for sale and apartments is wide and varied.