To the north of Valencia you find the Costa del Azahar, or Orange Blossom Coast. The area forms part of the provinces of Valencia and Castellón and is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt regions of Spain. Not only offering great beaches but beautiful towns and countryside.
The area is still relatively unspoilt when it comes to tourism, compared to its neighbouring Costa Blanca, but offers no less amenities, facilities and attractions. The nearest airport is at Valencia.
Places to visit The town of Peniscola with its great medieval castle and Oropesa, which conserves the 16th century Tower of the King, erected as a defense against pirates. The enchanting town of Morella is a true pearl, with its narrow lanes, enclosed by 14th century walls.
The attractive seaside town of Benicassim, with its Moorish feel is worth a visit, and is now famous for being the site for the annual FIB International Music Festival. Aside from this it is historically interesting with its 10th century Moorish castle.
Natural surroundings The countryside of the Costa del Azahar is breathtaking, filled with orange and lemon groves, protected parks and nature reserves; the region offers plenty of scope for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and rural tourism. Here you can enjoy activities such as hiking, rambling, mountain climbing, rafting, mountain biking, and more.
Beaches The beaches are unspoilt and don’t get as crowded as those of the Costa Blanca, kilometres of white sandy, interspersed with hidden coves, perfect for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Cuisine The local cuisine, like most of Valencia, is largely based on fish and rice dishes. Specialities include locally caught prawns, sardines and anchovies, as well as the famous Paella and the Tombet del Maestrzgo, which is a delicious soup.
Festivals San Antonio (17th of January) in Benicassim, Vinarós carnivals, Magdalena (Castellón, March), San Juan (24th of June), Oropesa fiestas (25th of July), Santo Tomás (22nd of September) in Benicassim, 9th of October and Peníscola fiestas (7th to 16th of October).
Climate The Costa del Azahar enjoys a mild climate, with warm dry summers and temperate winters. Ideal for all year visits.
Very clean beaches, lots of cheap restaurants. Not much else. If you want a beach holiday then it is great. However, the local market was disappointing and we found it very difficult to find any local produce to buy.
Costa del Azahar reviews
Beautiful beaches but as is typical, parts of the coast are very built-up.