In my blog entry today, I am publishing an article I wrote for the Gran Alacant Advertiser, a year ago, but never used it for publication. I often write stories, but for whatever reason don't use them; usually because world events take over and I have more pressing things to write about. This article was about 'El Clot De Galvany,' Gran Alacants nature reserve and the 'Skywalk,' two free activities you can undertake, while staying in this region.
Free things to do in Gran Alacant
I’ve just got up, pulled back the blinds, and looked out of the window. It’s raining and windy, not typical Spanish weather, I grant you. My plans for today, have gone completely out of the window. I was going to have a day out, wasn’t sure where, but this area has a lot to offer, apart from the obvious. To be honest, I am not the Worlds biggest fan of the beach, yet I moved to Spain; indeed I do suffer in the severe heat, but I decided to make my home in Gran Alacant, nevertheless. This area has much to offer, for those who live and work here and others who choose to spend their holiday in this part of The Costa Blanca.
The main beach in Gran Alacant is Playa el Carabassi; I spent many days this year relaxing along this 1.5km strip of sand. The views are stunning; you can visibly see Alicante and on certain days as far as Benidorm, while relaxing in the sun, or walking along the foreshore on a clear winters day. The area is protected and includes unusual flora and fauna, as well as sand dunes and during the summer months, offers a variety of refreshments, water sports and a beach club.
It was actually, while I was sat on the beach, reading a book, that I began talking to a local resident, who had just got back from spending the day in the local Nature Reserve. I hadn’t actually even noticed there was one; at the time had been living in Gran Alacant for four months or so, yet this fantastic reserve is just around the corner from where I live. In fact, when I look out of my living room window, I can see El Clot De Galvany, as it is called.
It wasn’t until a few months later, that I decided to take a trip to this fascinating, alluring place. We packed a picnic and set out to explore as much of the area, as our legs would take us. This is an amazing place for families; on our arrival I noticed a specially designed area, where loved ones were passing the time of day, eating their packed lunches, laughing, enjoying the sun and even celebrating Birthdays. Children were running around, happy, playing games, while their parents sat near by, relaxing on a Saturday afternoon, resting after a busy week at work!
We parked the car and set off for an afternoons walk. As you enter the park you have no idea, just how extensive and beautiful this area is. After walking through some thick wooded vegetation and rocky terrain, we were confronted by open plains, extending as far as the eye can see, bewitching vegetation and breathtaking views. There were two walks sign posted, one far longer than the other; one, most certainly, for another day. As a beginner in the art of walking and rambling, it was decided that the best course of action, would be to take the lesser of the two tails, at least initially. We got to the reserve at about 1.30pm, It was a hot day, at 28 degrees, but nothing like the 40 degrees, it had been in the past; It was perfect walking weather. As a person, I am not keen on using my own two feet at the best of times, but for once I was actually quite looking forward to a long ramble and time to clear my head; this is the first time I have ever walked anywhere, since I was a child. In the UK, ones life is so overtaken by daily activities, commuting to work, the school run and shopping, that one never really had the time to complete such undertakings. With the pace of life being that much slower and with more time on ones hands, I am able to try, at least, a variety of new and interesting experiences.
It took us about two hours to walk around the route; the scenery was glorious. It looked rather like the wild west to be honest, with imposing deformed trees and lush green cacti in every direction. The ground was dusty, the topography mountainous, with numerous hills and rocks; the views of Gran Alacant and inland Spain were magnificent. The area itself not only has natural beauty but also a number of old bunkers and trenches, still left from The Spanish Civil War; there are also a number of viewing platforms, as well as pine trees and palms. El Clot de Galvany is also famous for its duck ponds and bird watching, which we spent some time exploring; sitting on observing platforms we were able to view some rare white headed ducks in a superbly made artificial habitat.
The Sky walk, is another local attraction, I was advised to go and visit. I had first heard about it while eating at La Piedra; talking to my lunch companion, about ‘Things to do in GA’. I was politely interrupted by a couple, enjoying a light snack, having just returned from a few hours, near the Santa Pola light house, where the walk way is situated. They explained how wonderful the views were, and I should go and visit it; which I promptly did, after I had finished my meal.
At the end of the Camí de Don Juan, is the Santa Pola Lighthouse, sat next to it, is the Skywalk. This unique attraction, stretches out across the cliff edge, offering amazing views of Benidorm to the North and Torrevieja to the south; you can also see the beautiful island of Tabarca, a short distance from the coast. The steel bridge is open in construction, offering 360 degree views of the coast, and surrounding area; as well as views below ones feet, as one navigates ones way across this bridge.
I don’t mind telling you, I have the biggest phobia, where heights are concerned; a bridge stretching out over a cliff edge, would as a rule, not be my idea of fun. having said that, I actually enjoyed the experience and would certainly recommend anyone visiting or living in Gran Alacant, visit this wonderful attraction; the views are well worth it.
There are of course many other days out to experience in this region; I have just included two that I have personally partaken in; I will write about others in future articles. The Costa Blanca is popular among tourists, especially the British; who enjoy coming here for the weather, beaches and bars, of which there are many fantastic venues, especially in Gran Alacant, but there are other adventures to be had, free and gratis. It is not often you can go somewhere for nothing, so if the opportunity arises grasp it and make the most of it.
We are of course very lucky to be living in Gran Alacant, where we have on average 320 days of sunshine a year. Despite the wind and rain today, you can almost guarantee perfect weather, for a trouble free day out. Now the temperatures have fallen to a more manageable 24 degrees, it is an ideal time to visit El Clot de Galvany or the skywalk and always remember the best things in life are free!
