Santa Pola: fort, salt pans and Tabarca
- Driving time
- About 45 minutes by car
- Area
- Baix Vinalopó
- Town
Santa Pola is a fishing town with a 16th century fortress, salt pans full of birds and boats to the island of Tabarca. It is about a 45 minute drive from Lago Rosa Apartment.
In the middle of town stands the Castillo-Fortaleza, a Renaissance fortress from the 16th century. Inside is the Museo de la Mar, covering local prehistory, the Iberian and Roman periods and the crafts of the sea. It makes a good start, particularly when it is slightly too windy for a beach day.
On the edge of town lie the former salt works, now the Parque Natural de las Salinas de Santa Pola. Lagoons, dunes, beaches and watchtowers such as the Torre Tamarit sit side by side, and birdwatchers like to come here. If you have already seen Torrevieja, this makes a good companion.
The Romans were here too. The protected archaeological area of Portus Illicitanus has remains of a harbour quarter and a villa with surviving mosaics. For swimming, Llevant, La Llisa, El Pinet and Tamarit are the beaches to head for, along with the bays of Cabo de l'Aljub.
To Tabarca
Several boats sail from the harbour to the island, home to Spain's first marine reserve. Cars and bicycles cannot come along. Sailing times change with the season, so check with the operator first.
Markets
Monday and Saturday morning opposite the bus station. On Saturday morning there is also a food market next to the Mercado Central.
Summer evening
From mid June to early September a market of about 30 stalls sets up every evening next to Avenida González Vicen.
Frequently asked questions
Can you sail to Tabarca from Santa Pola?
Yes, boats sail from the harbour to the island. Cars and bicycles cannot come along.
What day is the market in Santa Pola?
Monday and Saturday morning, opposite the bus station.
What is there to see in the castle?
The 16th century fort houses the Museo de la Mar, on prehistory, the Iberians, the Romans and fishing.
