Tabarca
Trip off to Alicante’s isle of joy
This island off the coast of Alicante, measuring just two kilometres long, is a corner of the Costas that has somehow escaped the ravages of development. Car-free and hassle-free, there’s little to do here beyond visiting the 18th century church, exploring the tiny coves of Tabarca’s unspoiled coastline, and lunching on caldero (the local speciality, a fish casserole with rice) at one of the simple restaurants near the jetty. This Mediterranean microcosm makes a great day out from Alicante – regular ferries make the 50-minute journey from the harbour – but the summer months are best avoided.
Contact: alicanteturismo.com/isla-tabarca-alicante
Price: ££
Pastelería Raúl Asensio
Have your cake and eat it at a legendary pastelería
Those of a sweet tooth should consider making the 30-minute car journey to Aspe, home of the Alicante region’s finest pastry shop. A family business dating from 1758, Pastelería Raúl Asensio specialises in Mediterranean goodies like magdalenas (fairy cakes) and torta de manteca, a rich brioche made with pork fat. It’s also known for its handmade panettone, recently placed third in a worldwide ranking, which comes in a range of flavours including chocolate and orange and fig and Fondillón wine. Snap up a tub of turrón ice cream for the return journey: this heavenly helado makes use of Alicante’s signature almond sweetmeat.
Contact: raulasensio.es
Price: £
Mercado Central
Stock up on Spanish ingredients at a historic food market
As well as a cathedral of gastronomy the Mercado Central is an architectural masterpiece. Before you head into the market itself, built in modernist style between 1915 and 1922, take a moment to examine the soaring façade in stone and brick, flanked with palms and picked out with decorative tiles. Then plunge in among the 292 stalls, keeping an eye out for fine local products like hueva (cured mullet roe), caper berries and sun-dried tomatoes. Finally, visit the Barra Central market bar for a restorative glass of cava.
Insider tip: Be sure to buy something: only tourists leave the Mercado empty-handed.
Contact: mercadosdealicante.com/mercado-central-de-alicante
Price: Free