Villajoyosa / Vila Joiosa

Villajoyosa as it is known in Spanish or La Vila Joiosa as it is called by the local people in Valencian literally means the 'joyful village'. It is famous as a centre for the production of chocolate, which could be the reason for its name! The town has three chocolate factories, all of which can be visited. The Valor Chocolate factory is perhaps the most famous, but there is also the Perez Factory and the Clavileno Factory, so you'll be spoilt for choice!

Villajoyosa has over 3 kilometres of beaches, a lovely marina, a beach front promenade all along the central beach and the iconic multi coloured houses of the fisherman. Villajoyosa is also well know for its impressive Moors and Christian Fiesta which has been declared as being of International Tourist Interest. It is usually held during the last week of July where there is a live re-enactment of the landing of the Moorish Army on the beaches at dawn, an all day battle which is finally brought to a close when the Arab leaders and their armies are thrown into the sea.

Places of interest and ideas of things to do in Villajoyosa / Vila Joiosa

• Beach: long sandy beach.
• Promenade: beside beach from the multi coloured houses to the marina.
• Marina: at the end of the central beach, the fish actions takes place Monday-Friday at 17.30 in the Lonja.
• Multi Coloured Fishermen’s Houses: great backdrop to central beach.
• Chocolate Factories: free to visit, each has a museum and shop.
• Tram Station: take the tram north to Denia and Altea or south to Alicante.
• Moors & Christian Fiesta: held every July mock battles between the armies.

Ideas of places to twin Villajoyosa / Vila Joiosa with day or night

• Visit the stunning Cuevas del Canelobre, just inland from Alicante city and enjoy a tour around the magnificent caves with their stalagmites and stalactites. Then head to Villajoyosa for a stroll along the beach to the marina in time to watch the fish action in the lonja which is held Monday to Friday at around 17.30.
• Spend the morning getting to know all about Villajoyosa's rich chocolate history and visit one (or more!) of the chocolate factories. Make the short drive to nearby Benidorm for an afternoon on the beach and a night out at any of the many comedy clubs or live music venues.
• Take the tram from Villajoyosa south to the city of Alicante or north to Altea or Denia, the tram stops are in the centre of each of these places and only a stones throw from the sea, so explore and enjoy.

Places of Interest