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Alicante, a province stretching along the Mediterranean in the Valencian Community, is not only famous for its stunning landscapes and sunny climate but also for its rich culinary heritage. Traveling in a campervan gives you the unique freedom to explore this region at your own pace, stopping in picturesque villages, vibrant cities, and local markets to taste the very best of Alicante’s cuisine.
Below, we propose a route that will take you through the most authentic flavors of Alicante.
Dénia: UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy
We begin our journey in Dénia, recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. This honor is due to its culinary diversity, ranging from fine-dining restaurants to traditional tapas bars. Don’t miss the Central Market, where fresh produce from the sea and local fields take center stage. For an unforgettable experience, book a table at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, where innovation meets the traditional flavors of the Mediterranean.
Jijona: The Cradle of Turrón
Heading inland, we reach Jijona, a town world-renowned for its turrón production—a sweet made of almonds and honey that is synonymous with Christmas in Spain. Visiting Jijona in summer allows you to learn about the production process in its many factories and museums dedicated to this iconic treat. Of course, you’ll also get to taste and buy different varieties to take a piece of Alicante’s tradition with you.
La Vall de Gallinera: Cherries and Landscapes
Continuing our adventure, we arrive at La Vall de Gallinera, an area that comes alive in spring with cherry blossom. This valley not only offers breathtaking landscapes but is also famous for its high-quality cherries. In season, you can buy them directly from farmers or local markets. The area is also known for producing olive oil, wine, and honey, products that showcase Alicante’s rich agricultural heritage.
Alcoy: Mountain Setting and Inland Gastronomy
Nestled among the mountains of the Sierra de Mariola, Alcoy offers hearty mountain cuisine. Highlights include the olleta alcoyana, a traditional stew made with legumes, vegetables, and meats. The city is also famous for its cured meats and game products, making it an ideal destination for lovers of mountain cooking. Be sure to try dishes featuring black truffle, especially in winter, when it is in season.
Alicante: Tapas and Wines
Finally, our route takes us back to the coast, to the city of Alicante, where tapas culture is alive on every corner. From the traditional esmorzaret to innovative gourmet tapas, Alicante is a paradise for grazing and sharing dishes. Pair your tapas with a D.O. Alicante wine, renowned for its Monastrell reds and Muscat whites. A visit to the local wineries offers the chance to learn more about Alicante’s winemaking traditions and enjoy tastings that will delight your palate.
The Alicante Paella of Vega Baja: An Unrivaled Flavor
Paella, the world-famous Spanish dish, finds one of its most sublime and delicious expressions in Vega Baja del Segura, Alicante. The Alicante paella from Vega Baja is more than food—it is a culinary work of art and a symbol of the region’s rich culture and tradition.
Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Vega Baja is a fertile plain crossed by the Segura River, whose irrigated lands yield abundant crops. Fresh, locally harvested ingredients form the base of Alicante paella. The rice—grown nearby—absorbs the Mediterranean essence in every grain.
Unique Variety and Flavor
What makes Vega Baja paella unique is its rich combination of meats and vegetables. Traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and sometimes snails, it is complemented by fresh vegetables like green beans, garrofó (a local type of bean), and artichokes. This creates a robust, earthy flavor that reflects the region’s biodiversity and resourceful cooking traditions.
A Technique Passed Down Through Generations
Preparing Alicante paella is a ritual handed down from generation to generation. Slow cooking allows the rice to absorb the broths and flavors of each ingredient. The paellera pan, exposed to carefully controlled heat, becomes the stage where these ingredients blend into a dish that delights all the senses.
More Than a Dish: An Experience
Enjoying a paella in Vega Baja is a cultural immersion. It is not only about tasting an exceptional dish but also about sharing in a tradition celebrated around the table with family and friends. This sense of community and celebration elevates paella to an act that nourishes both body and soul.
Tips for Enjoying Alicante’s Gastronomy in a Campervan
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Plan Your Stops: Many producers and restaurants require reservations, especially in high season and for winery visits.
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Local Markets: Take advantage of local markets to taste and buy fresh products. It’s a great way to support the local economy and enjoy top-quality ingredients.
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Gastronomic Festivals: Alicante hosts numerous food festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar and plan your trip to coincide with them.
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Sustainability: When traveling by campervan, it’s essential to respect the environment. Use designated service areas for waste management and follow local rules on overnight stays.
This gastronomic route through Alicante lets you discover the region’s culinary diversity—from the coast to the mountains—through flavors that tell the story of its people and its land. Traveling by campervan adds a touch of adventure and freedom to the experience, letting you explore at your own pace and according to your tastes, turning each stop into a culinary discovery.
We hope this article inspires many to embark on their own flavor-filled journey through Alicante, savoring the culinary richness that this beautiful province has to offer.
If you’re thinking about renting a campervan in Alicante, count on us!
THE FURGOCASA TEAM
