Isla de Tabarca (Island of Tabarca): This island is in fact a natural monument, and is the only inhabited island in the Valencian Country. It is 11 miles (20km) from Alicante. The waters around the island are now listed as a Marine Reserve. The island has an important set of fortifications, an 18th-century church and the Castle of San José. Tabarca was declared a Historical-Artistic Monument in 1964. Kon Tiki (tel: (96) 521 6396) have boats departing several times a day from Muelle de Costa 2. The journey to the island takes about 30 minutes.

Altea: Located less than an hour's drive north in the direction of Valencia, Altea is set on a small hill overlooking a stretch of coastline. The restricted tourist development is centred on the seafront and the town has retained its character and charm. The old village on the hill is a picturesque one, with its blue-domed church and white houses, all decorated with beautiful flowers. Contact Tourist Info Altea, Carrer Sant Pere 9 (tel: (96) 584 4114), for more information.

Terra Natura Wildlife Park: A great way to spend the day with the family. This recently inaugurated wildlife park (website: www.terranatura.com) is outside the famous tourist resort of Benidorm, about an hour's drive north of Alicante. There's also a theme park called Terra Mitica (tel: 902 020 220; website: www.terramiticapark.com).