Valencia, also known as the 'Costa Blanca', with its eclectic mix of miles of marvellous sandy beaches, tranquil inland villages, spectacular mountain scenery and a variety of contrasting resorts, is one of the most cosmopolitan coastlines in Europe. The fabulous coastline stretches from the historic city of Valencia in the north to Murcia in the south has over 100 kilometres of beaches many of which have won the prestigious ?blue flag? award in their time.

The region boasts a wide variety of sporting facilities, two of the best known naturally being golf and sailing, both of which are well catered for. The whole area is steeped in history, something which becomes evident in the many fiestas, or festivals, which number over 400 and are held throughout the year. April sees the festival of San Jordi (St George) in Alcoi, the ?capital? of the Moors and Christians. The landing of the Moorish ships takes place at the beach of La Vilajoyosa in July, and there are midnight parades in Villena in September, all linketo the same theme. Undoubtedly the most well known festival is that of the bonfires of Sant Joan (St John) which happen all along the coast from June, with the largest and most spectacular being in and around Alicante itself. Mediterranean cuisine is always worth investigating, and the local variations of the region include a delicious rice dish called ?Arros Abanda?, which is made with fish on the coast yet inland flavoured instead with rabbit and snails. Other rice dishes are also popular, such as 'arroz con costra', baked with an egg crust and, of course, the ubiquitous Paella makes a welcome appearance all over the region. The resorts we feature are Denia, Jalon, Javea and Moraira, which are served by the airports of Alicante, Valencia or Muria.