Beyond Benidorm – Adventuring in the Spanish Countryside

Spain is known for many things; stunning coastlines, lively culture, delicious food and friendly people. As most of these things extend to even the smallest towns in the country, it can sometimes be challenging to select just one place to visit. Cheap holidays to Benidorm are a fantastic option for travellers as they offer not only exceptional beaches but adventure tours including kayaking, scuba diving and quad biking, to name but a few.

The developed coastline of Benidorm allows visitors to experience the sun, sand and sophistication of a stunning Spanish resort destination. Benidorm’s proximity to the beautiful landscapes of Costa Blanca means that visitors can stay in a resort by the sea and easily access some of the most incredible adventuring Spain has to offer.

The heart of the Costa Blanca is a short trip from central Benidorm and a veritable outdoor theme park for adventurers of all kinds. The incredible wilderness is ideal for all types of excursions. Travellers can canoe along rivers, crawl inside caves, cycle through mountains and meander through valleys.

Take to the skies

Experiencing the region by air is truly a one of a kind experience. Several companies offer hot air balloon trips over the area. There is nothing like floating over the Spanish countryside taking in views of the sea and sky, and seeing the landscapes change below you. Drift quietly above arid deserts, rolling plains, fertile valleys and crystal clear coves and rivers. Elche is a wonderful place to begin a balloon trip since the flora and fauna of two distinct nature reserves looks amazing from the skies.

Water babies

For those who love the water, Benidorm and the surrounding area is a water baby’s paradise. Scuba divers can explore the depths of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea while beginners can learn the basics from trained professionals. Don’t miss hotspots such as the arches to the north of Benidorm or the island of Mitjana.

If you prefer to be on the water rather than below it, kayaking and canoeing are wonderful ways to experience the Costa Blanca. Venture out on a solo expedition or join an organized tour for an exceptional adventure into the depths of the Spanish countryside. Why not begin at Les Rotes to make your way towards the caves of La Cova Talla and the Montgo Nature Reserve?

Dry land activities

There are plenty of land activities to keep the adventure traveller busy as well. Hikers can find trails through mountains and valleys for all skill levels. The terrain is so diverse that everyone from the novice to the advanced walker can find a route to challenge and excite them. Climb the Sierra Helada (ice mountain), or catch the bus to Albir to walk to the El Faro lighthouse.

Quad bikes are another popular way to get around on land. Taking a tour on a quad bike is a fantastic way to access some of the most remote parts of the region and truly get a sense of the wild landscapes that lie beyond the Benidorm skyline.

No matter your preference, Benidorm is a perfect place to escape this summer. Sit by the sea, savour fine dining, get lost in the wilderness or float above it all in a magical hot air balloon.

Images:
Scuba diving in Spain: http://www.flickr.com/photos/94767754@N00/1085008160/ by SteelCityHobbies
Clear Spanish waters: http://www.flickr.com/photos/22098403@N00/2663965500/ by Philip Larson

Author Bio: Marta Ramos is a keen diver who enjoys all things outdoors. She particularly loves underwater caves and mysterious shipwrecks - she was born to be in the water and many of her friends call her Marta the Mermaid!


NOTE: This is a post from one of our contributors. Any views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views on www.pinoyadventurista.com.