Villajoyosa travel information and video

Villajoyosa

Located at the northern end of the Costa Blanca in the Alicante province, Villajoyosa (La Villa Joiosa) is the capital of the Marina Baixa district. A delightful and historic town, it stretches the length of a lovely wide, sandy beach, with pretty coloured fishing houses running along the seafront and is encompassed with a backdrop of mountains. 

Situated around 26 kilometres from the city of Alicante and Alicante International airport, Villajoyosa is a well-situated destination, ideal for exploring the rest of the Costa Blanca coastline.

History
Villajoyosa has a rich cultural heritage. It’s history as a town dates back to the 6th century and it has been settled by the Greeks, Phoenicians, the Romans and of course the Moors, when it actually fell into some decline, which is unusual for a Moorish occupied town.

The town as it is known today was founded in 1293 by an Admiral who served in the Kingdom of Aragon’s navy. It’s name Villajoyosa, literally means Joyful town. 

Throughout the centuries Villajoyosa has been an important trade point along this coastline; trading in olive oil, cereals and wine, and shipbuilding, amongst others. But probably what it is most famous for is chocolate. During the 19th century the town started to develop a chocolate-making industry. Because of its trade connections, it started importing cocoa from Ecuador and Venezuela and the industry grew and grew. The chocolate brand, ‘Valor’, which can be found in most shops and supermarkets throughout Spain comes from Villajoyosa. 

Around town
A seafront backed by rows of colourful fishing cottages, and old walled town centre, with a distinctive gothic feel, roman bridges and a traditional Spanish working town feel. Villajoyosa is really a ‘joyful’ place to visit. 

There are plenty of amenities and facilities for holiday-makers: shops, bars and restaurants in abundance, a lively fish market and bustling local market, where you can pick up fresh local produce, home-made local souvenirs and crafts and other holiday items. 

Villajoyosa Beach
Villajoyosa is set at the mouth of a river, which sweeps into the Mediterranean Sea. Three kilometres of wide, golden, sandy beaches form part of the local coastline. The local beaches are popular with water sports enthusiasts and there are good facilities on the beach. 

Places to visit
Villajoyosa is well placed to explore the stretch of coastline known as the Costa Blanca in the Valencia region. Close by are the resorts of Benidorm, Altea, Denia and of course the city of Alicante. 

You could also take trip by boat to the lovely Island of Tabarca. Visit the Caves of Canelobre, a marvel of mother nature; or head to Elche to see the largest Palm Forest in Europe, where you can enjoy a stroll through the subtropical environment.

Climate
Villajoyosa and the whole of the Costa Blanca enjoys a privileged location and an excellent mild climate, with an average year round temperature of 18-20° C.