Benissa is a captivating town situated on the Costa Blanca
Benissa is a captivating town situated on the Costa Blanca, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and undeniable charm. Located in the northeastern part of the Alicante province, the municipality covers an area of 69.7 km² and boasts 4 km of stunning coastline. As of 2007, the population stood at 12,690 inhabitants, resulting in a population density of 182.04 inhabitants per square kilometer. Benissa is approximately 75.4 km away from Alicante, 23.9 km from Denia, and 112 km from Valencia.
The topography of Benissa is characterized by rolling hills, encompassing a coastal region adorned with picturesque coves and beaches. Additionally, the area is home to mountain ranges such as Sierra de Oltá, La Sollana, La Malla, and La Sierra de Bernia, the latter reaching an impressive height of nearly 1200 meters. The city itself, with its well-preserved historic center, proudly showcases its traditions through a multitude of buildings and monuments.
Benissa’s coastline is renowned for its idyllic coves, beautiful beaches, and the residents’ commitment to its preservation. One of the most famous and beloved beaches in the area is De la Fustera. Moreover, Benissa boasts a yacht club called “Les Basetes,” which offers amenities such as a bar, restaurant, sailing school, and diving center. It is conveniently located near the border of Calpe, adding to the town’s allure.
Sierra Bernia is indeed one of the most valuable natural resources in the area. Stretching 11 kilometers from west to east, perpendicular to the Mediterranean coast, this mountain range covers an area of 1,900 hectares and extends across the municipalities of Callosa d’En Sarria, Altea, Calpe, Benissa, and Jalon. The Sierra de Bernia offers a plethora of hiking trails, providing ample opportunities to immerse oneself in nature and spend an entire day exploring its beauty.
Landmarks
The well-preserved city center of Benissa is a testament to its rich history. One of the notable landmarks is the Church of the Immaculate Virgin of Xiquet, an exquisite neo-Gothic structure often referred to as “La Marina Cathedral.” Other significant monuments include the Franciscan Monastery, El Ribereño, and La Casa de Juan Vives. However, every street in the city exudes a sense of history and culture, making it a delight to explore.
In Benissa, there is a popular saying: “Benissa polp y missa,” which translates to “Benissa, octopus and mass.” This saying reflects the town’s culinary tradition, as one of the most beloved dishes is octopus stew. The region is renowned for its diverse and delicious local gastronomy, with a particular emphasis on sausages. Visitors can find a wide variety of these traditional sausages in the numerous butcher shops scattered throughout the town.
Benissa is home to numerous sports centers that cater to a wide range of sports. The city boasts various sports associations, allowing residents and visitors to engage in almost any sport of their choice. The details of these sports facilities and activities will be further discussed in the Holidays and Sports section.
As true Valencian people, the residents of Benissa have a deep love for festivities and cultural events. The city hosts a multitude of festivals throughout the year, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The celebrations in honor of the Immaculate Virgin, the Feast of the Moors and Christians, and the Feria de San Antonio are among the most significant, popular, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Cultural activities are abundant in the region, with events taking place throughout the year. These activities include lectures, theater performances, music concerts, film screenings, hiking excursions, camping trips, and even a philatelic market for stamp enthusiasts. Benissa truly offers a diverse range of cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Property in Benissa
Property in Benissa can be quite expensive, as it is considered one of the pricier municipalities in the Costa Blanca region. The average cost per square meter in Benissa is €2174. However, there are variations in prices depending on the specific area.
In the Benissa pueblo area, which is located away from the sea, the average cost is slightly more affordable at €1789 per square meter. This area mainly consists of low-rise buildings such as houses, chalets, bungalows, and villas, with fewer flats available.
The La Viña – Montemar – San Jaime area, although landlocked, offers beautiful mountain views and lush greenery. The average cost here is higher at €2290 per square meter. The properties in this area are predominantly low-rise buildings.
Moving closer to the coast, the Cala Advocat – Baladrar area has an average cost of €2946 per square meter. Here, you can find flats starting from €250,000, although the options may be limited compared to houses. A spacious house with a swimming pool can cost around €550,000, while villas start from €450,000.
The most expensive area to buy a home in Benissa is the La Fustera beach area, with an average cost of €3126 per square meter. In this area, you can find small 1-bedroom flats starting from €215,000, and 2-bedroom flats starting from €350,000. Adosado houses start from €330,000, while detached houses start from €450,000.
It’s important to note that these prices are averages and can vary depending on factors such as location, size, condition, and amenities of the properties.
