Benijofar, located in sunny Alicante, Spain, offers a tranquil escape with family-friendly vacation rentals and enchanting landscapes. Roam its charming streets, enjoy golfing or embrace nature on the Green Trek walking trail. Just 15 minutes will see you frolicking on the pristine beaches of Guardamar del Segura. Immerse yourself in this hidden gem and you’re sure to stumble upon culinary delights, inviting local amenities, and more. Ready to unravel the serene ambiance of Benijofar? Let’s journey on.
Historical Significance
Town history reveals your connection to a rich Arabic heritage, as the name ‘Benijofar’ translates to ‘Son of the Pearl’ – a testament to the area’s historical importance in the region. The town’s development from a small farming community to today’s thriving expatriate destination showcases its remarkable evolution through the centuries.
Another fascinating aspect of the towns history lies in its agricultural roots. The fertile lands surrounding Benijofar have supported local communities since ancient times, with the Segura River playing a vital role in the town’s development. You’ll find traces of this heritage in the traditional irrigation systems that still influence local farming practices today.
At the heart of Benijófar is the Plaza de la Constitución, modern yet still retaining its traditional charm, thanks in part by the beautiful church.
Location and Accessibility of Benijofar
Despite being tucked away in the province of Alicante, Spain, Benijófar is remarkably accessible.
You’ll find this charming enclave just a 15-minute drive from the bustling coastal cities of Torrevieja and Guardamar del Segura. Its strategic location guarantees you enjoy the tranquility of a small town, while the amenities of larger cities are just a short drive away.
You’ll appreciate how quickly you can reach the A7 motorway, a mere 5-minute drive, connecting you to nearby urban areas and airports. Alicante airport is only 35 minutes north of Benijófar, while Murcia International Airport is about 50 minutes south.
Surrounded by picturesque landscapes like orange groves and salt lakes, Benijófar’s accessibility adds to its appeal as an ideal destination.
What we love about here is it’s a 10 minute or so drive from our house, so when we attend the amazing Rueda De Las Tapas / Tapas Train event here, it’s easy enough for us to get to.
Exploring Local Amenities in Benijofar
As you navigate through the heart of Benijofar, you’ll quickly discover its wide range of local amenities designed to make your stay more comfortable and convenient.
Traditional Spanish grocers, butchers, and bakeries line the streets, offering fresh, local produce. Every Tuesday, join the community at the weekly market for competitively priced goods. This is located down where the old Hamiltons Bakery was situated.
For health needs, there’s a dentist, a medical clinic, and nearby towns provide additional services. Embrace the active lifestyle at the private gyms.
Banks, insurance services, beauty therapy, and hair salons are also within reach, ensuring your daily life is as smooth as possible. There is also Benican Vets, which is now called Mi Vet, after they changed hands.
In Benijofar, you’ll find everything you need and more.
Leisure Activities in Benijofar: Golfing and Walking Trails
While you’re unwinding in Benijofar, don’t miss out on the leisure activities the region offers. Surrounding this charming area are over 15 golf courses just a short drive away.
La Finca and La Marquesa are crowd favorites, with stunning landscapes and facilities for players of any skill level. If you’re not into golf, fret not.
The Green Trek, a scenic walking trail along the River Segura, awaits you. This 4.5 km route is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog.
With accessible cycling paths, you can also explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. So whether you’re a golf enthusiast or a nature lover, the nearby golf courses and walking trails offer a fantastic mix of leisure activities.
Discovering Nearby Beaches
Ready for some sun and sand? Benijofar’s proximity to beautiful beaches such as Guardamar del Segura and Orihuela Costa puts paradise within a quick 15-minute drive.
These beaches offer 12 km of soft, white sands and safe swimming conditions, perfect for both relaxation and water sports. Fancy some adventure? Try your hand at windsurfing, diving, or sailing.
Don’t forget to visit the nearby coastal lagoons like Mar Menor, known for their warm, shallow waters, ideal for family-friendly outings.
Dining in Benijofar
After soaking up the sun on Benijofar’s stunning beaches, your next stop should be exploring its vibrant dining scene. For authentic tapas, there’s the wonderful Bar Sonia, that is a regular haunt of ours.
The main street offers a variety of dining options to cater to diverse tastes, including Chinese, Indian, Mexican, and Dutch cuisines. Notable restaurants in Benijofar include Pines, popular for its international menu and family-friendly atmosphere. There’s also Squirrels Bar & Grill and if you like an Indian curry, you must visit Victoria Palace.
You’ll also find numerous spots with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal in the pleasant Mediterranean climate. The town also houses several bars and casual dining spots, ensuring a new choice for every day of the week. If you like to sit and people watch, then Oasis is a great option.
Plus, the proximity to larger towns like Torrevieja expands your dining options even further.
There are some great places to eat, including Plaza Diferente ( C./ Ramón y Cajal Local Nº.13
Centro Comercial Benimar ) down near Restaurante Los Dos. One we adore from the tapas train is Las Papas Doradas in Benimar Commercial Space and also Restaurante El Gusto, which is more of a fine dining establishment, just down the road from La Luna.
Also check out Bambouzza, BlissFul Bites, Brutal, Tempo and Urban Fusion Food & Coffee in the Benisol Commercial Space, Calle Alfonso XIII at the top end of Benijófar, near Hamiltons.
Hamiltons Bake House have been baking British style bread, pies and pastries for over a decade. They moved the other year, there address is Av. Federíco García Lorca, 92, local 5. But if you’re British and wanting a taste of home, call in here.
Real Estate Opportunities in Benijofar
If you’re considering investing in a holiday home or relocating, Benijofar’s real estate market could be just what you’re looking for. There are plenty of local estate agents in the area, both for sales and rentals.
With a range of options from villas to apartments, it’s a hit with expats and retirees. Prices are generally more affordable than those in nearby coastal towns, making it a smart choice for real estate investment.
Many properties boast modern amenities like private pools and gardens. Plus, its proximity to tourist hotspots like Torrevieja and Guardamar del Segura increases potential for rental income.
The growing expat community in Benijofar also contributes to a steady increase in housing demand, hinting at a promising future for property values.
The new villas springing up at the top end of the town are very modern in design.
Benijofar’s Climate: What to Expect
Soak in the warmth of Benijófar’s perfect Mediterranean climate, which offers hot summers and mild winters.
You’ll love the hot, sun-drenched days with average summer highs around 30°C. Don’t fret about excessive heat, the warm climate is made comfortable by the cool Mediterranean breezes.
Winter brings milder temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 17°C, so you can still enjoy outdoor activities.
Rainfall is low, averaging about 300 mm annually, with most precipitation in autumn and winter.
The icing on the cake? Expect about 320 sunny days per year.
This warm climate not only makes Benijófar a delightful destination for visitors but also supports local agriculture, contributing to the area’s lush landscapes and fresh produce.
Reasons to Visit Benijofar: Unwinding in a Serene Environment
While you might be drawn to Costa Blanca for its bustling resorts and vibrant nightlife, don’t overlook the peaceful retreat that’s Benijofar. This quaint town, set amidst lush orange groves, offers a serene setting far removed from the usual tourist hustle.
Take a leisurely stroll through its charming plazas, relax in its parks, or explore scenic walking and cycling paths along the Segura River. The beautiful Cañada Marsá Park beckons nature lovers, while the weekly markets provide a taste of local produce and delicacies.
Plus, with easy access to vibrant resorts like Torrevieja and Guardamar del Segura, you can enjoy both tranquility and entertainment. Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle at its best in Benijofar.
Final Thoughts
There is plenty to do in the town, but there’s also numerous towns and villages, very close by. Formentera del Segura, Ciudad Quesada, Algorfa, Rojales, Almoradi, San Fulgencio are also nearby. The charming old Spanish town of Los Montesinos is just 9.5 km away by car, and it takes only 11 minutes to get there and the vibrant Torrevieja is a 12 km drive.
If you like beers and ales, then Triple Brew in Rojales is just down the road.
Advantages of the Area
Little doubt exists about Benijofar’s appeal as your ideal Spanish home. You’ll find yourself just 15 minutes from Torrevieja and Guardamar del Segura, with easy access to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and important amenities. Your daily needs are well-served by local shops, markets, and medical facilities, while the strong expat community makes integration easier for newcomers. Just a stones throw from the Benisol Centre bars is the large Mercadona supermarket, as you head into Quesada, which is next door to a huge Chinese shop.
Potential Drawbacks
Cons of living in Benijofar include the limited public transport options, which might affect your mobility if you don’t drive. The summer months can bring increased tourist traffic to the area, and you might find parking to be an issue.
Soph and I tend to pop down here several times a month, usually for a bite to eat or just for a coffee / drink, sometimes on route to or from Quesada. We do usually tend to avoid the tourist season, for obvious reasons.
