Finestrat is the best of Both Worlds – Tranquility and Convenience

Approximately 12 kilometers West North West and inland of the city of Benidorm lies the village and municipality of Finestrat. Cala de Finestrat, a popular beachside resort bordered by Benidorm and Villajoyosa is also included in the municipality. Finestrat lies on the mountainside of Puig Campana, affording the area spectacular views of the lush mountain areas and the Mediterranean coast. Finestrat can be directly accessed from the N-332 road and may be reached from the AP-7 Highway via the Exit 65-A, and then a local road that leads directly into the village.

WHAT IS IT LIKE LIVING IN FINESTRAT? (FINESTRAT LIFESTYLE AND THE URBANIZATION)

The village of Finestrat exudes a charming old-town look and feel. Much of its history has been preserved and is visible in the colorfully-painted houses, narrow cobbled streets and old buildings with arched gateways—all of Moorish origin. Conversely, the municipality’s coastal area, Cala Finestrat, has seen much modern development over the years—making it seem like an extension to the city of Benidorm.

All throughout the inland village, remnants of the past can be seen:  The 13th-century Castell de Finestrat, the 18th century Church of Saint Bartholomew, La Torre and the Hermitage Crist de Remei. Residents of the village are able to enjoy unique history combined with the modern comforts of today.

Many of the residential properties in Finestrat are comprised of chalets—wooden houses with sturdy eaves inspired by Swiss architecture—wide-spaced villas and apartment blocks with terraces and solariums. These properties are situated in residential neighborhoods around the village center and many of these homes are designed to provide panoramic views of the mountains and the sea.
The village also offers many vantage points from which to appreciate the natural scenery, which boasts of lush greenery, mountain backdrops, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Here, residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and a peaceful atmosphere inspired by the traditional Spanish way of life. For those who want to enjoy the livelier atmosphere of Benidorm, the city is only an 18-minute drive away, and buses operate until the late hours of the night to provide convenient transportation.

CALA DE FINESTRAT (FINESTRAT COVE)

Cala de Finestrat, or Finestrat Cove, is a picturesque beachside resort bordered by the city of Benidorm to the north and Villajoyosa to the south. Cala de Finestrat is considered a cove (Cala) due to it being a circular inlet with shores sloping gently upwards and rock formations surrounding some areas of the water.

If the village of Finestrat has retained its old Moorish look and traditional Spanish charm, Cala de Finestrat features the more modern side of the municipality, with apartment blocks and rows of restaurants, bars, and shops surrounding the quaint cove. Despite its developments, however, Cala de Finestrat is still more peaceful and less crowded than the neighboring beaches of Levante and Poniente, and is perfect for a quiet and relaxing time by the sea. The place is a favorite among locals and tourists who are looking for a beach with a calmer atmosphere.

GOLFING IN FINESTRAT

Puig Campana Golf

The course consists of 9 holes with another 9 in development, and prices vary according to the season. See our review of the golf courses in and near Benidorm here. Note: numerous golf shops on the Costa Blanca offer discounted green fees on many of the courses if you book your round of golf through them.

ADDRESS: Calle Morella, 14, 03509 Finestrat, Alicante

WHAT TO DO WHEN IN FINESTRAT? (ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS)

Shopping at the Finestrat Markets

The open-air market is located very near Cala de Finestrat, offering a leisurely shopping experience with lovely views and fresh air from the sea. It’s open every Tuesday and Saturday, from early morning until the late afternoon, and features various stalls and booths selling everything from cured meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables, to leather items, bargain books, souvenirs, and accessories.

ADDRESS: Av. Marina Baixa, s / n, 03509 Finestrat, Alicante

The village market is located in the historical center of Finestrat at Carrer l'Hort, and takes place every Friday.

Hiking the Scenic Trails of Finestrat

Because of the village’s orientation near the mountains and surrounded by wooded areas and lush greenery, hiking has become a favorite activity among locals and tourists alike.  A popular walk is along the grasslands of Sendero de Sierra Cortina, where the path will take you to a large elevated clearing that offers panoramic views of the whole of Finestrat, the Puig Campana Mountain, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Go-Karting on a Professional Track

Karting Finestrat boasts of a large, 1 kilometer pure asphalt track where drivers can perform solo endurance rides and group races. They also feature a variety of karts to choose from—from speed karts bearing 390cc engines and with speeds of up to 120km/h, to two-seater karts and space karts designed for children or adults who prefer a less speedy but still fun experience on the track. A leisure area, bar, and restaurant are located on-site, readily serving refreshments and a menu of delectable snacks and meals for both children and adults. Rates vary according to the kart chosen and the number of laps around the track. Karting Finestrat also takes reservations for birthdays, bachelor parties and company outings.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN FINESTRAT

Restaurante Pizzería Ohlalà!

A quaint restaurant in the village center, Restaurante Pizzería Ohlalà serves authentic Italian dishes freshly cooked in the restaurant. The restaurant offers rustic-themed interiors and spacious outdoor seating.

ADDRESS: Av. de Benidorm, 16, 03509 Finestrat, Alicante

Gastro by La Morena

Situated in the historic quarters of Finestrat and surrounded by buildings and streets of Moorish architecture and design, is Gastro by La Morena. With luxurious interiors, as well as ample outdoor seating, the restaurant provides a unique and comfortable atmosphere. Gastro by La Morena serves a variety of traditional Spanish food and tapas, as well as a wide selection of Mediterranean dishes.

ADDRESS: Carrer Nou, 7, 03509 Finestrat, Alicante

Moli II

A favorite among many locals and residents in Finestrat, Moli II is an authentic Spanish restaurant that serves a wide array of food and drinks—including breakfast meals, paellas for sharing, and a menu for kids. The restaurant has a spacious outdoor seating area for patrons who want to enjoy their beers and tapas while enjoying the views and the pleasant Mediterranean culture and climate.

ADDRESS: Av. de Benidorm, 03509 Finestrat, Alicante

HOW TO GET TO BENIDORM FROM FINESTRAT

BY TAXI: Travel time is less than 15 minutes in light traffic conditions; fares range from €15 – €18 one-way

BY BUS: The Llorente Line 15 Bus travels from the village of Finestrat to Av. Picasso in the city of Benidorm. It has 11 stops, including one at the famous attraction of Terra Natura, and the duration of the entire route is approximately 31 minutes. The Line 15 bus leaves every 2 hours. Fare is at €1 – €2 one-way.

Golf Bahía

An urbanization in Finestrat, Golf Bahía is a neighborhood that boasts of spacious, attractive villas and vacation homes—each with their own set of luxurious amenities. Some of the homes and villas for rent have their own swimming pools with loungers and gardens with barbecue areas, as well as terraces overlooking the outdoor area. These properties feature 3 or more fully-furnished bedrooms, a spacious living room that opens onto the patio, bathrooms with shower and bathtubs, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Many of these villas and vacation homes are designed to accommodate families or groups of guests who wish to stay in a comfortable home with great amenities and set in a convenient location near the beach and the village center of Finestrat.

SEE A MAP OF THE TOP-RATED HOLIDAY APARTMENT RENTALS AND ACCOMMODATIONS IN FINESTRAT