Visit the Isla de Tabarca on a Costa Blanca villa holiday

According to the official tourism portal for Alicante, the inhabited island is located just 11 miles offshore from the city and is a "must-do" trip for holiday makers.

Its shores were once a refuge for pirates and in the 18th century it was fortified on the orders of King Carlos III and used to house the families of Genoese fishermen being held captive in the Tunisia.

Today, the walls around the island's town have been declared a historical and artistic site, while the waters around it have become a designated marine reserve thanks to their rich biodiversity.

Families can visit the island by taking a boat from the harbour in Alicante and can spend time strolling around the walled town, exploring its many coves and beaches and eating in one of its restaurants.

There is also a museum on the Isla de Tabarca where holiday makers can find out more about its fascinating story.

Costa Blanca villas in Calpe are around an hour from Alicante, although it is also close to Benidorm, where boat trips to the island also depart.

Calpe itself is home to two Blue Flag beaches separated by a towering rock face.

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