Villamartin holidays

How to reach Villamartin

• Flight time: The majority of flights to Villamartin land at Alicante-Elche airport, the closest airport. Regular flights from London and other major UK airports to Alicante-Elche take about 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: Shuttle services and taxis wait outside Alicante-Elche airport terminal to transfer you to Villamartin, which takes about 45 minutes.

• Price: A taxi from Alicante airport to Villamartin normally costs around €55 one way. Shuttle bus services are more economical, at about €22 per person.

Best time to visit Villamartin

The best time to visit the urbanisation of Villamartin is dependent on your expectations: do you want to experience communal life in full swing, spend your days on the golf course or do you prefer to relax undisturbed on a peaceful beach?

• March to May temperatures in the area range from 18°C to 25°C, making it the perfect climate for golf and exploring the outdoors. It's also less congested at this time, allowing for a more relaxed visit.

• June to August is the peak season when temperatures reach an average of 30°C. This is the ideal time for beach holidays to Villamartin, but it's also the busiest.

• September to November are the autumn months that offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, providing ideal conditions for more strenuous outdoor activities.

• December to February maintains mild weather, with temperatures rarely dropping below 16°C. It's the quietest season, which makes the area appealing to those wanting to escape colder British winters.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language. Basic English is commonly spoken within the tourist areas due to the international community.

• Local habits and customs: In Villamartin, life moves at a leisurely pace. Try to embrace the siestas from around 2 pm to 5 pm, when many businesses close, and evening mealtimes that are typically later than in the UK.

• Currency: The local currency is the Euro. Most places accept major credit cards, and ATMs and banks are located throughout the town.

• Getting around: Local buses and taxis serve the area well, with single bus fares costing approximately €1.50. Renting a car, bike or a scooter to explore are other popular options for getting around.

• Electricity and plug types: Continental-style, two-pin sockets and 220 volts are standard in Spain; UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Spain operates on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of the UK.

Local dishes in Villamartin

The dining scene in Villamartin promises to be one of the highlights of a visit to the region. The culinary offerings include a delectable blend of traditional Spanish dishes, many of which focus on local seafood, and international flavours.

Some typical dishes

• Arroz con Conejo: Commonly found in the region, this traditional rice dish is created using rabbit, cooked with herbs and vegetables.

• Cochinillo Asado: Roasted suckling pig is a delicacy in the area, which is renowned for its tender meat and crisp skin.

• Arroz a la Alicantina: A cousin to the more famous paella, this rice dish is made with chicken, rabbit and snails, seasoned with saffron and served with a variety of vegetables.

Tapas dishes

• Patatas Bravas: A staple in local bars, these popular fried potatoes are served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli – perfect for a hearty snack.

• Jamón Ibérico: A must-try, this finely cured ham represents the pinnacle of Spanish charcuterie.

Meat dishes

• Chuletón de Buey: Simple but delicious, this thick, juicy steak is often served on a hot stone at your table.

• Pollo al Ajillo: Chicken cooked with plenty of garlic, olive oil and sometimes a hint of chilli is a common dish in the surrounding areas, which highlights traditional cooking methods.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Gambas al Ajillo: Served sizzling hot to the table, prawns sautéed in garlic and chilli embody the essence of Spanish seafood cuisine.

• Calamares Rellenos: Squid stuffed with a savoury filling showcases the Mediterranean's bounty.

Street food

• Bocadillos de Calamares: Squid sandwiches are a popular quick snack, featuring lightly battered rings served in a crusty baguette.

Sweets and desserts

This region serves a range of traditional sweets that reflect its regional heritage. Flan, a creamy caramel custard, is a popular dessert known for its simplicity and comforting texture. Turrón, a nougat made from almonds and honey, is a popular sweet treat that provides an indulgent finish to a meal.

Local drinks

• Sangria: A refreshing mix of red wine, fruit juices and spirits, sangria goes down well with a beach lunch or while watching the sun go down.

• Horchata: This refreshing drink made from tiger nuts is a favourite in the area, especially during the hot summer months.

Best things to do in Villamartin

Villamartin, nestled slightly inland from the coast, has attractions and activities nearby that will appeal to visitors seeking either a relaxing or more active holiday. Visitors are seduced by the wonderful beaches, natural beauty, golfing opportunities and favourable climate.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Las Salinas salt lakes: Set in a remarkable natural park, the amazing pink tones of these famous salt lakes produce a wonderful vista.

• Torre Vigía: Photographers flock to this old watchtower at Cabo Roig to capture the stunning views of the Mediterranean.

The best districts

• Villamartin Plaza: Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, Villamartin Plaza is the heart of the area lined with international restaurants, bars and live entertainment spots.

• Cabo Roig: Located on the coast, this small district is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively strip full of eateries and pubs.

Day trips in the area

• Murcia: Just a short drive away, Murcia is a historic city with a lovely cathedral and beautiful gardens. Discover our offers for holidays in Murcia.

• Cartagena: The ancient port city of Cartagena is famous for its Roman theatre and beautiful architecture.

• Tabarca Island: A boat trip to this small island will reward you with fabulous snorkelling and an escape from the usual tourist paths.

• Guadalest Valley: Visit the Guadalest Valley for breathtaking mountain views and a quaint village with museums and craft shops.

Activities for families in Villamartin

Villamartin holidays can offer a variety of activities that cater to both children and adults, ensuring a fun-filled holiday for everyone. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the area, from beaches to adventure parks.

• Beaches: The local beaches like La Zenia and Playa Flamenca are safe for children and have various amenities such as lifeguards, play areas and snorkelling spots.

• Water parks: A hit with kids of all ages, Aquopolis and Aquapark Flamingo are two water parks in the vicinity that boast thrilling slides, children’s pools and picnic areas.

• Recreational activities: Head to Go-Karts Orihuela Costa for an adrenaline-pumping day of go-kart racing, featuring different tracks and kart types. For a change of pace, enjoy a family-friendly game of mini golf at one of several crazy golf courses in the area.

• Playgrounds and recreational areas: Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre is not just for shopping; it also has a dedicated kids’ zone with activities specially created for children. Furthermore, many residential areas in Villamartin have well-maintained playgrounds where children can play safely.

Free things to do in Villamartin

Villamartin and the surrounding area provides a variety of activities that allow you to have an enjoyable time without exhausting your budget.

• Public markets: You can immerse yourself in the local culture, and even sample some traditional foods, at public markets such as the one at Playa Flamenca Street.

• Free events: Participate in or watch various free cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year, celebrating everything from local customs to international holidays.

• Hiking: Take advantage of the many free hiking trails that crisscross the nearby regions, offering everything from easy walks to challenging treks with panoramic views.

Wellness in Villamartin

• Spas and wellness centres: Many of the local resorts and hotels feature full-service spas that offer massages, facials, body treatments and wellness therapies incorporating local ingredients such as sea salts and citrus oils.

• Traditional body care: Indulge in traditional Spanish beauty treatments, including olive oil wraps and aloe vera skin treatments known for their soothing and hydrating properties.

• Yoga and meditation centres: There are several studios and retreats offering yoga and meditation classes that take advantage of Villamartin's tranquil setting. Classes are available for all levels.

• Detox and health retreats: For those seeking a comprehensive wellness reset, several health retreats in and around Villamartin offer programs that include detox diets, fitness sessions and mental wellness workshops.

Nature and outdoor activities in Villamartin

• Golf: Villamartin is renowned for its world-class golf courses, with the Villamartin Golf Course itself offering a challenging and beautifully landscaped 18-hole round.

• Cycling and mountain biking: The area around Villamartin provides numerous cycling routes that cater to all skill levels, from scenic coastal rides to more challenging mountain trails.

• Water sports: The proximity to the coast allows for a plethora of water sports, including sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding. The clear waters of the Mediterranean are also perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving, offering a glimpse into the local marine life.

• Birdwatching: The salt lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata, just a short drive from Villamartin, are famous for their diverse bird populations, including large flocks of flamingos.