Villa Valverde

Andalucian Update

With more than two centuries of history contained in its stonework walls, this restored currant (the tiny raisin-like berries) finca still shows off classic Andulcian styling in its ceiling level ladrillas, sturdy exposed rock walls and terracotta tiled roof. What’s new includes whitewashed exterior surfaces, a sparkling turquoise swimming pool, floor heating and AC, and reconfigured openings that flood the home with Spanish sunshine.

Once a farm, now an elegant coastal getaway, this southern Spanish villa is delightfully off the beaten path in a lesser traveled section of the Spanish coast famed for its beautiful coves and 320 days of sunshine. A few minutes’ drive from beach, the home also offers views of craggy Montgó mountain from its pool terrace and outdoor kitchen and barbecue zone. A house and small guest house tastefully furnished with a mix of antique, global, and contemporary pieces, the villa’s pretty Mediterranean garden is flowering and lush, with neatly landscaped pathways and well-appointed, cushioned lounge areas shaded by wisteria-laden covered portals.

AROUND

Jávea, or Xàbia, is a coastal community in the region of Alicante near Valencia along the Mediterranean Sea. Famed for its 300+ days of annual sunshine, the small town is known for its vast coastline of more than 20 kilometers pocked by rugged coves where jagged rock formations rise from the Mediterranean’s turquoise waters. The town is bordered on both coastal sides by rising headlands and backed inland by the Montgó mountain range. The town’s local beach, Arenal, is consistently awarded as a Blue Flag beach and it’s backed by a pedestrian promenade, planted with palms, that hums with activity day and night. Bars, taverns, and restaurants do a mean waterfront tapas business, families stroll the promenade on weekends, and restaurants and boutiques complete the picture. Jávea’s historic center was previously a fortified community, and city walls and gates of local blonde “tosca” sandstone are visible along some of the labyrinthine medieval alleys and passageways. The harbor area is picturesque, still a working fishing port today. The Valencian Gothic church of San Bartolomé is constructed entirely of the locally quarried golden sandstones and worth a viist. Hidden along the coast between the headlands is another award-winning beach, the Playa de la Granadella, the beach favored by snorkelers and scuba divers for its ultra clear waters. 

Outdoor enthusiasts should make their way to Montgó Natural Park where the region’s craggy outcropping can be summited, though the climb isn’t for the faint of heart. Cabos, or beautiful rugged coves, that shouldn’t be missed include Cabo de la Nao, with its lookout point and waterfront taverns, Cabo San Antonio at the northern end of the bay, with a lighthouse and several picnic areas with views all the way to Ibiza. Water sports are big in Jávea, including jet skiing and SUP ing, kayaking, wind and kite surfing.

LOCATION

Javea, Alicante, Spain. Nearest airports: Alicante (1¼ hours); Valencia (1½ hours)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: April to October