The Island

The prospect of island life is a paradise for many, with sandy beaches, sun kissed climates and blue seas all-round the stuff of dreams. Jolanda van de Streek of ImmoVario explains why buyers don’t have to look in far-flung, remote locations to find their island dream.

The island of Tabarca is a natural marine reserve a short boat ride away from the city of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. For those who love nature and are looking to buy a holiday home on the Costa Blanca with easy access to natural surroundings as well as local amenities, this coast has some excellent choices.

Just 11 nautical miles from Alicante, Tabarca is easily accessible by one of the organised boat trips from Alicante, Santa Pola and Benidorm. The journey only takes an hour and the journey in itself across the sea is all part of the experience of a day on this islands. Tabarca is the main island in an archipelago and measures 1.8km in length and just 400 metres in width.

Tabarca has its own small beach, beautifully clear waters which are perfect for snorkelling and a pretty fishing port. As you might expect on an island with plentiful access to the sea around it, the local food is largely fish-based and the traditional caldero tabarquino is served in most restaurants. A hearty fish stew served with vegetables and roast potatoes is best paired with a glass of chilled white wine.

Although Tabarca is small, there is plenty to see and do. Berber pirates used to take refuge on the island and when Genoese fisherman were held prisoner in Tabarka, Tunisia in the 18th century, King Carlos III declared that the island be fortified, creating a walled town for the families of those fisherman to live in. The walls are now a certified and protected landmark. You can learn more about the history of Tabarca at the town museum (Museo Nueva Tabarca). Entry is free of charge and perfect for those with an interest in maritime history.

Shade is limited on Tabarca so if you travel there on a sunny day make sure you take some sunscreen and a hat. The beach on the island can get full in summer but if you head there at other times of the year, easily doable if you own your own home on the Costa Blanca, you can enjoy Tabarca at a slower pace.

Immovario has a wide selection of holiday homes on the ever popular Costa Blanca. Contact them today to arrange to view their latest properties: https://www.immovario.com/en/property-for-sale/costa-blanca/