BALCÓN DEL MEDITERRÁNEO Benidorm
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Top Attractions in Spain
The Balcón del Mediterráneo (also known as Mirador de Benidorm) is a viewpoint located on a rocky cliff that juts out into the water dividing the two main beaches of Benidorm. Its pentagonal shape offers spectacular views of the coastline. For this reason, and for its beautiful white stone balustrade, it’s a popular spot for photoshoots.
Due to its popularity, the surrounding area has a great atmosphere, always full of artists and musicians. Just take a seat in one of the surrounding bars and enjoy the gorgeous views and the sea breeze. Without a doubt, the Balcón del Mediterráneo is a must-see in the city, both during the day and at night.
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Among the reasons that make the Balcón del Mediterráneo one of the most beautiful corners of Benidorm is the panoramic view it offers. From this location you can admire the Levante and Poniente beaches —both with fine golden sand— as well as the port and the Mal Pas cove, an ideal cove to spend time with the family.
In addition, from the Balcón del Mediterráneo you can also spot the Island of Benidorm, a small rock that emerges from the sea with a mythical story behind it.
Historically, the location of the Balcón del Mediterráneo was very important for the protection of Benidorm’s inhabitants. From the 14th to the 17th century this spot was occupied by a fortress that defended the population from the attack of Algerian and Berber pirates.
Unfortunately, centuries later in 1812, an attack by the English against Napoleon’s troops saw to an almost complete destruction of the castle. The ruins were abandoned until the 19th century when the construction of the square began. The Balcony of the Mediterranean was completed in 1928.
Some of the remnants of this exciting history can still be seen today such as the cannons and some parts of the defensive wall. And because this is the location where the castle once stood, the Balcón is also know as the Mirador del Castillo (Castle Lookout).
Benidorm boasts excellent weather all year round. In fact, the viewpoint is always packed with visitors, especially during the months of July and August. But in reality, the atmosphere in the area is very lively from May to October, when the arrival of tourists is constant.
So, whether you come to the Balcony during the day —when you can admire the magic blue color of the sea— or at night —to enjoy the panorama of its illuminated skyscrapers— you will take away great memories. Our recommendation? Visit at sunrise or sunset.
To get to the Balcón del Mediterráneo or Mirador del Castillo you will have to choose to access from the Levante or the Poniente Beach.
If you choose the first option, you will have to walk along the promenade until the end. From there, you will have to cross the old town. As soon as possible, turn left and continue straight ahead. When you reach a building with an arch, you will have arrived at the Plaza del Castell, where the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana is located.
If, on the other hand, you decide to arrive from the Poniente Beach, you will have to go to the end of the beach and cross the port of Benidorm. At the end of it you will find a roundabout which leads to Mal Pas Beach. Follow the stairs and walk along the promenade that leads to the Plaza del Castell.
It is possible to reach the old town from other areas of Benidorm with the buses from the company Avanza Grupo. This transport operator offers travelers several bus lines that pass next to the old town, such as: 001, 002, 004, 005, 006, 010, 011, 016, 018 and 030.
If you arrive in your own vehicle, you can find parking on Avenida del Mediterráneo, on Levante Beach, or on Avenida de la Armada Española, on Poniente Beach.
However, you can opt for one of the two covered parkings near the viewpoint: Parking Ruzafa, located 150 meters from Levante Beach, or Parking Avenida del Derramador, 800 meters from the same beach.
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Built in the 18th century to commemorate the discovery of the Virgen del Sufragio, patron saint of Benidorm, the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana is located at the top of the old town. It was renovated and restored in the twentieth century. The most important festivals of Benidorm are celebrated here, such as Easter and the Festes Majors Patronals.
The church is adjacent to three squares: Plaza de Sant Jaume, Plaza de Castelar and Plaza de Santa Ana.
Most of Benidorm's old town is made up by narrow cobblestone streets filled with shops, such as clothing stores, restaurants and cafes. Among its most famous streets are El Callejón, famous for its nightlife, and the Calle de los Vascos, a promenade where travelers can enjoy the traditional Basque pintxos.
One of the things to see in Benidorm is its port, which is of significant importance to the town. The reason? Although it might be difficult to believe, until the 1960’s, Benidorm was mainly a fishing village!
The port is not only worth a visit for its beauty and tranquility, but also because it is the departure point of the recreational boats or golondrinas to Calpe, Benidorm Island and Tabarca Island. When walking by the port, make sure to also check out the private boats –you might get to see some impressive yachts!
If Benidorm is known for something, it is for its beaches, and the Levante and Poniente Beaches are the queens of the collection. The fine golden sand of both beaches stretches over 2km and 3km respectively. In addition, both the Levante and Poniente beaches have good access to all the necessary services and amenities. You'll be in heaven!
You’ll recognize Benidorm Island immediately, because of its characteristic slope. This rocky outcrop in the sea is an island that you can access in one of the famous swallow boats (“golondrinas” in Spanish). On the island, you will find an unlicensed restaurant. However, the truth is that the island is uninhabited and there is a plan to transform the restaurant into a nature interpretation center.
Legend has it that the island is a fragment of the mountain Puig Campana which was split by a giant and thrown into the sea.
Benidorm is full of awesome viewpoints. The Mirador de la Cruz de Benidorm is one that offers fantastic panoramic views of the city. In addition, in this place you will also find a cross, placed there by the Franciscan monks to protect the town from sins.
To get to the Mirador de la Cruz, start from the Rincón de Loix and walk up for 40 minutes or simply drive to the highest point.
The Mirador de la Ermita Virgen del Mar is located next to the archaeological site “Castellum.” The visit is highly recommended to all travelers who appreciate unique and peaceful places. From this point you will get one of the best panoramic views of the Poniente and Levante beaches, Marina Baixa and the mountain Puig Campana.
This viewpoint can be accessed on foot or by car. However, you will have to leave your vehicle in the park below, since the hermitage does not have parking.
The Gran Hotel Bali is an imposing skyscraper of 52 floors and 186 meters high. Enjoying its impressive 360º panoramic view costs 6€, but it's worth it! You will get privileged views of the sea, the mountains and the city from a superb location. What more could you ask for?
Another viewpoint, perhaps less known but very easy to access, is the Mirador de Sant Jaume. Located in the square of the same name, in the heart of Benidorm’s old town, this small viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Levante Beach.
On your way to the Balcón del Mediterráneo, you will pass very close to the Mirador de Sant Jaume, so be sure to check it out and enjoy the views from this unknown viewpoint.
