Free walking tours in Isla de Tabarca and what to see

Must-sees

Tabarca is a small island off the coast of Santa Pola, part of the municipality of Alicante and the only inhabited island in the Valencia region. Its village is a fortified town that Charles III had built in the 18th century to house families of Genoese origin rescued from captivity in Algiers. Walls surround almost the whole settlement, entered through three stone gates. Inside, the highlights are the church of San Pedro y San Pablo, the Governor's House and a small museum explaining the island's history and nature.

Outside the walls lies the area known as the Campo, with the Torre de San José, a square defensive tower that once served as a prison, and the lighthouse at the far eastern tip. The waters around the island were the first marine reserve declared in Spain, so snorkelling and diving are very popular. The only sandy beach is on the isthmus by the harbour; the rest of the coast is rocky coves and low cliffs.

Free tours and guided visits

On Tabarca you can book a guided visit of the walled town covering its history and fortifications, and there is also the odd wine or beer tasting and an alioli workshop to round off the day. Many trips leave by boat from Santa Pola or Alicante and include the crossing, sometimes on a glass-bottom boat to see the seabed of the reserve.

How long to spend

The island is small and easy to explore on foot at a relaxed pace. Half a day gives you time to stroll round the village, visit the church and the museum and walk out to the tower and the lighthouse. If you want to swim and enjoy a seafood rice without rushing, give it the whole day. In summer many visitors arrive around midday, so going early or staying into the evening lets you see it much more peacefully.

Where to stay

Inside the walls there are a few small places to stay, and sleeping on the island is the best way to enjoy it once the afternoon boats have left. Choice is very limited, so book well ahead. Alternatively, Santa Pola, with the nearest departure port, or the city of Alicante have much more variety and let you visit on a day trip.