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“Tabarca: A Piece of Heaven on Earth”
The island of Tabarca is a true paradise nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, a place where time seems to stand still and the natural beauty takes your breath away. It is located off the coast of Alicante, and it's a perfect destination for those looking for a tranquil escape.
Once you arrive on the island, you will be greeted by its charming tiny cobblestone alleys, whitewashed homes, crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and modest fishing boats floating in the port.
The island's relaxed pace of life and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The island is a feast for the senses, with the sound of the waves and the smell of the sea, it's a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with nature.
The island's history is closely tied to the sea, and it's a place where you can truly experience the Mediterranean way of life. A unique blend of Mediterranean and North African architecture and culture.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the island's picturesque streets, take a boat ride to explore the surrounding waters, or simply relax on the sandy beaches.
The island's restaurants and cafes offer a variety of traditional Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood that can be enjoyed in a romantic setting. (Find out which are the best restaurants of cafes at the end of the article)
You can choose between going on a day trip or staying for a night, or more. (Find out more about accommodations at the end of the article)
For those who love nature, the island offers a variety of beautiful natural settings, including sandy beaches, rocky coves, and lush gardens, where visitors can enjoy a picnic.
"Tabarca is a place where you can forget the world and just enjoy the beauty of nature"
Overall, the island of Tabarca offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway. However, it is important to keep in mind that the island is a protected area, so it's important to respect the environment and keep it clean.
The island is also a great destination for those looking for a unique shopping experience, as it offers a variety of souvenirs such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles, which are handmade by local artisans, and are a true reflection of the island's culture and history.
What souvenirs can you buy on the Island of Tabarca
The island of Tabarca offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that visitors can purchase as a memento of their trip. Some popular souvenirs include:
-Handmade ceramic pottery: The island is known for its traditional ceramic pottery, which features bright colors and intricate designs.
-Hand-woven baskets: The island's traditional baskets are made from palm leaves.
-Hand-made jewellery: Visitors can find a variety of traditional jewellery items on the island such as bracelets, earrings and necklaces made from shells, beads, and other natural materials.
-Traditional clothing and accessories: Visitors can purchase traditional clothing such as scarves, shawls, and hats that are made from natural fibers like linen and cotton, as well as traditional accessories like leather sandals and woven bags.
-Local sweets and pastries: Visitors can sample and purchase traditional sweets and pastries such as almond cakes, cand cand and nougat.
-Local wine and liquors: Visitors can purchase local wines and liquors such as the famous "hierbas" (herbal liquor) which is made from a variety of herbs and spices.
How to get to the Island of Tabarca
The time it takes for a boat to reach the island of Tabarca from the mainland ports depends on the departure point and the type of boat.
-From the port of Santa Pola, which is located about 15 kilometers south of Alicante, boats to Tabarca take around 30 minutes to reach the island.
-From the city of Alicante, the trip takes around 45 minutes.
-From the port of Torrevieja, it takes around 50 minutes.
It is important to note that the schedules and availability of the boats can change depending on the season and weather conditions, so it is recommended to check with the boat operators before planning your trip. Also, some companies offer private charters which can vary on the time of arrival depending on the route, the boat and the weather conditions.
A couple of interesting facts
The island, which has a total area of barely 1.17 square kilometers and a population of about 200, is a protected natural reserve and the country's first maritime reserve.
The Moors first occupied Tabarca Island in the 18th century, and they later used it as a military fortress to defend the coast from pirate attacks.
"Tabarca, is a treasure trove of culture, history and natural beauty"
In conclusion, the island of Tabarca is a true gem, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. With its charming streets, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere, it's a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and with memories that will last a lifetime.
Restaurants and cafes
The island also has a few restaurants and cafes, where visitors can try the local seafood cuisine. The island is known for its fresh fish and shellfish, which are caught by the local fishermen. Visitors can also sample the traditional dishes of Tabarca, such as paella and the local fish stew.
Tabarca offers a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood. Some of the most popular restaurants on the island are:
- Restaurante Tere: http://www.restaurantetere.com/eng-index.html - sea views
- Restaurante La Caleta: Phone:965 97 08 10 - sea views
- Restaurante Don Jerónimo: Phone:638 13 45 09
- Restaurante Nou Collonet: https://www.instagram.com/nou.collonet.tabarca/ - sea views
- Restaurante Anita: Phone:966 61 73 62 - sea views
Accommodations
There are a few hotels on the island of Tabarca, but accommodations are limited. The island is small and has a relatively low population, so there are not many options for overnight stays. However, there are a few hotels and guesthouses that offer basic accommodation for visitors who want to spend the night on the island. (Check availability as some of them only open in Spring or Summer seasons)
- Hotel La Trancada - Hotel Rural: http://casalatrancada.com/
- Hotel Boutique Isla Tabarca: https://hotelislatabarca.com/
- Iaia Carmen: Phone:722 16 76 32
- Vila Tabarca: https://vilatabarca.com/ - Private villa
- Cala Tabarca B&B: https://vilatabarca.com/
- Apartamentos Vientos de Tabarcar: https://apartamentostabarca.es/
It is important to note that the island is a popular destination during the summer months, so it can be difficult to find a place to stay during peak season. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.