Archaeological traces, coastal paths and fish cuisine reveal different sides of El Campello. The Illeta dels Banyets tells the story of several periods of settlement, while walks and activities are also a focus along the coast. When planning your visit, it is worth looking separately at the historic sites, the paths by the sea, and the food and cultural experiences on offer.
Archaeology and Architectural History
The Illeta dels Banyets preserves remains from the Bronze Age, an Iberian settlement and a Roman villa. These are joined by Islamic materials from a medieval period of sporadic settlement. The Roman period is represented by small baths and fish tanks cut into the rock and connected to the sea. The Illeta was once an island and was connected to the coastal area of El Campello by an artificial isthmus.
The Torre de la Illeta was built in 1557 on the orders of the Viceroy of Valencia, D. Bernardino de Cárdenas, as a coastal defence against attacks by Berber pirates. Independent visits are not permitted; consult the tourist office’s schedule of guided tours. Another defensive structure is the Torre del Barranc d'Aigües, built in the second half of the 16th century as part of Valencia’s coastal watchtower system.
Gardens, Churches and Art
The garden of Villa Marco is divided into five areas: an Arab garden, a historic garden, an entrance garden, a Mediterranean garden and a pine grove. The gardens were laid out in the early 20th century under René Bardin, then the French honorary consul and owner of the estate. Their modernist style reflects influences from French colonial art. They are also home to two sculptures by Alicante-born Vicente Bañuls: “La Noche” and “La Marsellesa.”
The parish church dedicated to Saint Teresa was built in 1849 and later extended, while retaining its original character. The Ermita de la Virgen del Carmen was built in 1960 with donations from local fishermen. Its tiled altarpiece depicts the Virgin as “Stella Maris.” These buildings offer distinct points of interest: the parish church for its architectural history, the Ermita for its connection to fishing, and Villa Marco for its garden art.
The Coast and Paths by the Sea
El Campello has 23 kilometres of coastline, with beaches, cliffs and small coves. Platja de Muchavista is 3,300 metres long and has fine, golden sand. Visitors can windsurf, stroll or run along its promenade, which is more than three kilometres long. There is an accessible section of beach for people with reduced mobility; confirm the current accessibility facilities before your trip.
The Paseo MarĂtimo runs through the fishing district and is about one and a half kilometres long. Another coastal route is the Paseo de Voramar de les Escultures: it begins at the foot of the Torre de la Illeta and follows the coast to Playa de la Almadraba. Along the way are “La bañista” and “Niña leyendo” by Vicente Ferrero. The sculptures are dedicated to women and integrated into the landscape. Accessible and inclusive information panels were developed in collaboration with the MARQ and the Instituto de EcologĂa Litoral.
If you would also like to explore the landscape away from the seafront promenade, the SL-CV 93 local walking route runs through the les Puntes de Gosà lvez area. The area is considered a viewpoint offering impressive coastal views, as well as part of the municipality’s natural and ethnological heritage. In El Campello, you can explore nature on foot, by bicycle or on horseback; these options are described generally for the area and are not specifically associated with the SL-CV 93.
Local Cuisine and Practical Information
Traditional dishes served by restaurants in El Campello include Caldero campellero, arroz a banda, fideuà and bollitori. The specific dishes on offer may vary from restaurant to restaurant. Another way to experience fish cuisine is to visit the fish auction at La Lonja, which is open to the public year-round. Check for notices of seasonal closures before visiting. From Monday to Friday, the catches brought in by El Campello’s fishing boats are placed in trays and auctioned at around 6 p.m.; the time may vary depending on fishing activity. Visitors can take part and bid.
The modern tram connects El Campello with Alicante every 30 minutes. As service frequency should be checked before travelling, it is worth consulting the current timetable when planning your trip. The Casa de Cultura has an auditorium, exhibition spaces and the FAMEC Collection Museum; check the current programme before visiting. Club Náutico Campello has a recognised sailing school offering dinghy courses from introductory to advanced level, as well as rowing, Optimist sailing and kayaking. Confirm the availability of courses and activities directly with the club.
Discover more destinations: Coveta Fuma, Guardamar Del Segura, Margarida, AlcalalĂ, TĂ rbena, La Murada, Daya Nueva, Sanet Y Negrals.
For the wider travel overview: Alicante.
