The Alicante beach with crystal clear waters and a Civil War bunker

9/8/23, 8:01 AM By Costas News Costa Blanca Photo Credit: iStock

Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, the town of Altea in Alicante is a charming haven on the Costa Blanca. Its distinctive white-washed houses, azure-domed structures that dot the skyline, and serene beaches make it a picturesque destination. Among these coastal treasures, the Cap Negret beach stands out, with its intriguing bunker, a relic from the Spanish Civil War.

Cap Negret Beach stretches northeast of Altea, covering a kilometre in length and boasting a width of 10 metres between the Algar River mouth and the cape that bears its name. Its gravelly shores are bathed in the clear, crystalline waters of the Mediterranean, all framed by the lush Sierra de Bernia as a dramatic backdrop.

Visitors to this coastal gem can take advantage of temporary facilities that offer water sports equipment rentals and sun loungers. Additionally, a variety of beachfront hotels and local restaurants are just steps away, allowing you to savour the regional cuisine. Ample parking facilities are also available nearby.

Cap Negret is one of Altea's largest beaches, making it perfect for leisurely strolls, taking in the breathtaking vistas and the sea breeze. However, as you wander along the shore, you'll come across an unexpected historical relic that contrasts sharply with the serene landscape: a bunker.

This defensive structure was erected during the Spanish Civil War in 1937, by the Republican forces. Initially, eight bunkers were constructed to defend the entire coastline of Altea against potential naval attacks from the Francoist army, as well as Italian and German troops. However, they were never used for their intended purpose. Today, only this bunker and one at the nearby L'Olla Beach remain standing, while a third lies submerged off Cap Blanch Beach.

How to Reach Cap Negret Beach:
The journey by car from the city of Alicante to Cap Negret Beach takes approximately 45 minutes via the AP-7 motorway.

Altea's Cap Negret Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a touch of history by the Mediterranean Sea.