Print this pageStrolling along the Promenades of Alicante City
The heart and
soul of Alicante is the grand La Explanada de España. Stretching around the marina, this elegant boulevard with its red, black and cream tiles, all 6.6 million of
them, refuses to be ignored. It is the most famous of all Alicante's promenades and the most historic. It was the brain-child of the municipal architect José Guardiola Picó who, in 1867, created the
ideal area to perfect the romantic Spanish custom of the paseo (an evening stroll). With dramatic marble tiles depicting the waves of the Mediterranean and four rows of palm trees offering shade even
in the heat of summer, it is a sight to behold!
Meander along the
Explanada and you will discover the essence of the city, stalls selling local handicrafts jostle with pavement cafes, whilst locals meeting up with friends for coffee mingle with tourists soaking up
the atmosphere. During the summer months, while away your afternoon or Sunday morning sitting in the shade at the music pavilion where you can listen to the free concerts held there or during the
city's many fiestas immerse yourself in the party atmosphere that is often centred around La Explanada.
Less famous, but no less
interesting, three other Promenades deserve a mention. On the Paseo de Gadea an art market is held each evening and is a great place to ponder exciting displays of works by local
artists. The Conde de Vallellano runs parallel to the La Explanada. Here you can stroll in the refreshing sea breeze or watch the comings and goings of the marina. Watch out for the
interesting sculpture by Esperanza d'Ors entitled Icarus Returns with a Surfboard, which appears to be floating on the water!
Finally the
Paseo de Gomiz, that hugs the sweeping golden sands of the Playa del Postiguet, becomes the centre of attention during the firework displays held on the beach during the Fiesta of
San Juan over five consecutive nights!
With the choice of so many promenades by the time you leave Alicante you will be paseoing like a local!