While the peak summer months may get hot and crowded, for the rest of the year Benidorm is an oasis of hospitality for older generations who want the warmth of Spain’s sunshine and its hospitality.
Set on the Costa Blanca, just a short drive from Alicante airport, Benidorm rises out of the rocky coastline like a city of tourism, ready to welcome and entertain its guests. With an average 5 million visitors a year, there are almost as many hotels in this resort as there are in Paris. What that means for visitors – or at least to those who are free from the restraints of school holidays – is that many of the hotel rooms are offered for bargain prices during non-peak periods.
The combination of recent development, which has take accessibility into account as part of its design, cheap prices during low season, and so many things to see and do make Benidorm a great choice for the mature market looking for a little Spanish sun.
Accessibility
Benidorm is a resort which knows how to look after its guests, and it doesn’t discriminate by age or mobility. In fact, in recent years, the resort has done its very best to ensure that everyone can enjoy all it has to offer.
To start with, the natural layout of the resort is practical for anyone with mobility issues. Many of the town’s bars, restaurants and entertainment lie along its beachside strip which, although long, is relatively flat. It may be a long walk from one end to the other, but there are plenty of bars and cafés to rest in along the way.
One of the most pleasant places to take a gentle evening stroll is the promenade along Playa Levante, with plenty of great places to eat along the route if you want to extend your visit into dinner with a sea view.
Beach Mobility Aids
The sand on beaches can cause problems for those with even the mildest mobility issues and can make a trip to the water hazardous and unappealing. But if you yearn to dip your toes in the sea, Benidorm has thoughtfully introduced Plan de Playas Accesibles areas on both of the main beaches.
These accessible routes onto the beach are wide wooden paths designed for walkers and wheelchair users alike, and will take you right down to the water’s edge.
For those who want to walk on the sand but would like a bit of added stability, there are sand and sea-worthy walking sticks and crutches with wide bases specially designed not to sink into the sand.
And since you’ve made it down to the beach, why not go out on the water on one of the available ‘water buggies’ which will help you enjoy your time in the sea.
Wellbeing Tourism
Wellbeing tourism is big news these days – what it means to visitors to Benidorm is that there will be health care professionals, pharmacists and therapists who speak English and will be able to help you with any health issues which might arise during your stay.
Whether you want to improve your wellbeing at one of the many spas or you need an emergency prescription, you will find that your needs are easily met here. If you’re feeling particularly health conscious you could even join in one of the free seniors workouts which take place on the beach every morning – it’s a great way to make new friends if that’s what you’re looking for.
Culture and Entertainment
Now that you can rest assured that Benidorm will be a relaxing, welcoming place for an out-of-season break, it’s time to have some fun. From the glitz and glamour of the cabaret-style entertainment of the Benidorm Palace to the traditional Spanish dancing shows held at many of the larger hotels, there is plenty of great entertainment on offer.
One of the most popular pastimes here, and my particular favourite, is to just pick a café with a bright sunny terrace (my favourites are in Benidorm’s Old Town) and spend a few hours watching people and the world go by.
How to Get to Benidorm
Getting to Benidorm for a welcome break couldn’t be easier. The resort is just a forty-minute drive (60km) from Alicante Airport, which is served by a wide range of airlines from the UK including budget companies like easyJet and Ryanair, as well as national carriers.
For the easiest, most comfortable transfer from Alicante Airport to your accommodation in Benidorm book a car with Shuttle Direct. You’ll avoid the usual queues at the taxi rank and your English-speaking driver will meet you in the arrivals lounge and take you to his car. For a cheaper option you could try Shuttle Direct’s group transfer service.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Don Pacho – Ideal for older guest thanks to its elegant, well thought-out accessibility, the four-star Hotel Don Pacho is a stylish choice. Close to the beach with its own pool, solarium and buffet restaurant, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, and all have their own balcony.
Hotel Levante Club & Spa – Indulge in a wellness holiday in the warmth of Benidorm’s sunshine at the Hotel Levante Club & Spa. The spa is adults-only and has its own pool, jacuzzi, massage therapists and sauna. There is also an outdoor pool and buffet restaurant.
Apartementos Torre Belroy – Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own home away from home with a self-catering apartment at the Apartementos Torre Belroy. Just a short walk from the Playa de Levante, the apartments are part of the Belroy tourist complex with a wide range of facilities including a swimming pool, sauna and gym.
About Shuttle Direct:
A leading provider of airport transfers to destinations across Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct is the easiest, most convenient way of getting from the airport to your hotel destination. Book a private car or economical shared group transfer with our easy to use online booking service and then rest assured that a driver will be there to take you to your destination when you arrive at the airport.
