Tabarca Island | Alicante

Tabarca Island is a small, picturesque island located off the coast of Alicante, Spain, in the Mediterranean Sea. It's the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a tranquil escape, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Spanish island life. Tabarca offers a unique mix of history, nature, and gorgeous beaches, making it a must-visit for those exploring the Alicante region.

Overview and History

Tabarca Island, also known as Isla Plana, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The island's history as a fortified settlement began with the construction of a wall around the village, which was done under the orders of King Carlos III of Spain. The wall was built to protect the local fishermen and settlers from pirates, who were a common threat in the Mediterranean at the time. The island's population consisted mainly of people who had been moved there from the nearby North African coast, particularly from Tunisia, as part of a project to repopulate the area.

In the 18th century, the island also became a military outpost, with the construction of a fortress and watchtowers to monitor the waters around the island. Over time, the island evolved from a military settlement to a quiet fishing village.

Today, Tabarca is known for its charming old town, which is home to narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and the historic church of San Pedro y San Pablo.

Key Features and Attractions

Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters: One of the biggest draws of Tabarca Island is its beautiful, unspoiled beaches. The island is surrounded by clear, turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include:

• Playa de la Isla: The main beach, located near the town, features calm waters and beautiful views of the surrounding sea.
• Playa de los Granadets: A smaller, more secluded beach ideal for those seeking a quieter spot to relax.
• Playa de la Coveta: Known for its clear waters and ideal snorkeling conditions, this beach is a great place to explore marine life.

Marine Reserve: The waters around Tabarca Island are part of the Tabarca Marine Reserve, a protected area established to conserve the unique marine biodiversity in the region. This marine reserve is home to an array of marine life, including colorful fish, seabeds, and underwater plants, making it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers.

The reserve has been protected since 1986, and its status ensures that the waters remain clean and the environment is preserved, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those interested in marine life.

The Old Town (La Villa): The charming old town of Tabarca, known as La Villa, is one of the island’s main attractions. The town is full of narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and quaint squares. The fortifications, including the city walls and the watchtowers, are still visible today and provide a glimpse into the island's history.

The church of San Pedro y San Pablo is one of the key landmarks in the town. Built in the 18th century, this church is an important historical and cultural site for the island and offers an excellent vantage point of the surrounding sea and town.

The Fortress: The Fortaleza de Tabarca, or Fortress of Tabarca, was built in the 18th century to defend the island from pirate attacks. The fortress is now a historic site and a great spot for visitors to explore, offering panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. The fortress is a symbol of the island’s strategic importance during the period of the Spanish monarchy.

Tabarca’s Lighthouse: Tabarca Island has its own lighthouse, which dates back to the 19th century. The lighthouse is still operational and is an important beacon for ships navigating the Mediterranean. While it is not open to the public, it can be admired from the shore or as part of a boat tour around the island.

Walking Trails: The island offers several walking trails that lead visitors through its countryside and along its coastline. These paths provide excellent opportunities for exploring the natural beauty of the island, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and spotting wildlife such as seabirds and lizards. One of the most scenic walks is the trail around the island that offers incredible views of the sea and the island’s rocky cliffs.

Gastronomy: Tabarca is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The island has a number of restaurants and bars that serve fresh fish, seafood, and traditional dishes like arroz a banda (a rice dish with fish), fideuà (a noodle paella), and caldereta de pescado (fish stew). Visitors can enjoy these local dishes while taking in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

Tabarca’s Marine Life: The waters surrounding Tabarca are renowned for their marine biodiversity. In addition to being a popular spot for divers, the waters around the island are also home to a wide variety of fish, shellfish, and marine plants. Some of the most commonly seen species include groupers, moray eels, and sea turtles. There are even organized scuba diving trips for those looking to explore the underwater world more closely.

How to Get to Tabarca Island

Tabarca Island is easily accessible by boat from Alicante, with regular ferries and boat trips available from the Alicante Port. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes, and there are several companies that operate the service. The boats typically run throughout the year, but the frequency may vary depending on the season, with more boats available during the summer months when tourism peaks.

Why Visit Tabarca Island?

Natural Beauty: With its stunning beaches, clear waters, and beautiful landscapes, Tabarca Island is a haven for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a tranquil environment.

Historical Charm: The island’s history, from its fortress to its old town and the church of San Pedro, offers a fascinating look into its past as a strategic military outpost and fishing village.

Marine Life and Diving: The Tabarca Marine Reserve offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, with a rich variety of underwater life to discover.

Authentic Island Life: Despite its popularity with tourists, Tabarca Island has managed to retain its traditional charm and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

Conclusion

Tabarca Island is a hidden gem just off the coast of Alicante, offering a mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic Spanish island life. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore historical sites, indulge in fresh seafood, or enjoy underwater adventures, Tabarca provides a serene and unforgettable experience.