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Moraira was a small, old fishing village, situated on the Costa Blanca on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, halfway between Valencia and Alicante, now it has increased in size a great deal. It boasts the highest overall annual temperature in Spain and in the summer there is normally a pleasant sea breeze so that it does not get too hot. It has two main beaches (one called Playa el Portet and the other called Playa de L'Ampolla) which are sandy and clean. Playa de L'Ampola has a stream running down it's side which is pleasantly challenging to dam but not impossible. The sea is clean and it is possible to spot many different fish with a snorkel. In the summer the sea is usually calm but in winter huge waves have been known to lash the coast. There is an attractive harbour with many luxurious yachts and a fishing fleet too with a daily fish auction to sell their catch which is interesting to attend but impossible to understand! There are also many lovely walkways and garden areas with fountains, tropical trees etc.
Buildings in the area have a distinct Moorish influence. The Moors invaded in 711 and were not finally driven until 1248. However, the area was recaptured for Spain by El Cid in 1094 and from then until 1248 it changed hands regularly. Some Christian churches still have their Moorish domes. The great battles of the Moors and Christians are still celebrated in annual fiestas up and down the coastline.
Properties in this region are generally painted white and have to be washed or repainted every few years since they become covered with red dust which is blown over directly from the Sahara Desert.
Inland, are vast areas of sweet smelling pine forests, many of which were planted by the Moors, as well as beautiful mountain sides covered with acres of lovely fruit trees and terraced vineyards. In the mountain town of Guadalest the river has been damed to form a spectacular reservoir which is best seen from the Castle of Guadalest (which means Eagles Nest). From there, too, Ibiza can be seen on a clear day. Nearby the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls can be visited and a swim in the ice cold water leaves you with a great envigorated and completely cleansed senstation.
The Costa Blanca stretches for 170 miles from Denia to Mojacar and is ideal for a holiday at any time of the year. The climate in this region is warm even in the winter when the temperature rarely falls below 16. The countryside is mountainous and rocky and spectacular to drive through as well as providing many lovely walk for everyone and safe climbs for experienced climbers. There are hundreds of attractive orchards of lemon, orange, olive and almond trees etc. and their perfume is wonderful in season. There are many interesting places to visit, including Denia, Javea, Benidorm, Calpe, Altea, Elche and the hill top village of Guadalest. Moraira is a charming little village, one hours drive from Alicante Airport or an hour and a quarter down the coast from Valencia Airport. It nestles into the hillside and has wonderful views of the Mediterranean. It is an old fishing village which has been tastefully expanded over many years. It's harbour now has rows of luxury yachts as well as the old fishing port. The market on a Friday is great fun and not to be missed.
Golf, tennis, riding, squash, water sports (including deep sea diving) and bowls are available in the area as well as numerous restaurants and bars. You can also find go-carting and discos nearby (but not within earshot of the villa!) Attractions locally include Terra Mitica theme park, aqua landia and a zoo etc.