Los Saladares

A whisper south of Alicante's vibrant heart lies Los Saladares, a sweep of shoreline that offers a more tranquil, authentically Spanish refrain. It is a place where the city's pulse softens to the rhythm of the Mediterranean, a stretch of coast for the discerning traveller seeking solace and a true taste of the Costa Blanca.

The Vibe

Here, the air is thick with the scent of salt and sun-warmed sand, a fragrance carried on a gentle breeze that rustles through the nearby dunes. The soundtrack is one of muted conversations in Spanish, the joyous cries of children, and the soft lapping of waves against the shore. It’s a world away from the clamour of the city's main beaches; Los Saladares exudes a peaceful, laid-back ambiance. The crowd is a relaxed mix of local families and those in the know, who come to unfurl their towels on the expansive golden sands and escape the tourist throngs.

The Local Anchor

The beach is anchored by the charming promenade of Urbanova, where the culinary traditions of Alicante are savoured with a sea view. This is the heartland of Valencian rice dishes, and the scent of paella simmering with fresh seafood from the bay is an irresistible call. Restaurants like El Capricho de Raquel and Moments Bar have been local institutions for years, serving exquisite rice and grilled meats. In the distance, the stoic silhouette of the medieval Santa Bárbara Castle guards the horizon, a timeless reminder of the region's rich history.

The Landscape

Los Saladares unfolds as a generous expanse of fine, golden sand, stretching for over a kilometre. Its southern end is a protected cordon of wild dunes, a testament to the coast's natural state. The beach takes its name from the nearby wetlands, a former salt marsh that now provides a pristine natural escape. The water is a clear, inviting expanse with moderate waves, perfect for a serene swim. This is a landscape that feels both vast and intimate, a place to walk, to breathe, and to connect with the raw beauty of the Mediterranean.