When it comes to beaches in Alicante, everyone knows the iconic Playa del Postiguet. Nestled close to the heart of Alicante city, this beach is a favourite for locals and visitors alike, with its soft sands, easy access, and vibrant atmosphere. But there’s more to Alicante’s coastline than just Postiguet. For those willing to take a fairly short scenic stroll, the newly opened pathway “Vía Verde de la Cantera” offers a unique and tranquil route along the coast, leading from Playa del Postiguet to the lesser-known but equally charming and beautiful Playa de la Albufereta.
This scenic path not only connects two beautiful beaches in Alicante but also follows the historic route of the “Trenet de la Marina,” an old railway that once connected Alicante with Dénia. Along the way, you’ll walk through tunnels, enjoy breathtaking coastal views, and eventually make a pit stop at the beachside chiringuito in Albufereta to refresh. Let’s take a closer look at what this new coastal path has to offer and why it’s quickly becoming a favourite among beach-goers and joggers alike.
Starting at Playa del Postiguet
Playa del Postiguet, with its fine golden sands and proximity to Alicante’s city centre, is often the first stop for visitors exploring beaches in Alicante. Located right by the Paseo de Gómiz, this beach is equipped with all the amenities you’d expect from a popular city beach. If you’re starting your journey from here, it’s a leisurely stroll along the promenade that will take you towards the newly opened Vía Verde de la Cantera. You just basically follow the line of the coast all the way. It’s very easy to follow.
The path officially begins near Playa de la Sangueta, just after the Mirador del Príncipe viewpoint, providing you with a taste of Alicante’s lovely coastal vistas before you even hit the Vía Verde. For those who want to learn more about Alicante’s top beaches, check out our guide to the top 3 beaches in Alicante City for more inspiration.
The Vía Verde de la Cantera: A Walk Through History
The Vía Verde de la Cantera follows the route of the old “Trenet de la Marina,” a narrow-gauge railway that operated between 1915 and 2018, transporting passengers along the coast from Alicante to Dénia. Today, this historic railway line has been transformed into a picturesque walking and cycling path, offering locals and tourists a peaceful way to experience the beauty of Alicante’s beaches while connecting with the city’s history.
The path stretches 1.2 kilometres, starting near Avenida Villajoyosa and winding its way towards Playa de la Albufereta. Along the route, you’ll pass through four restored tunnels, including the Túnel Promontorio, which has become a favourite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. The tunnel entrances have been carefully preserved with stone arches and structural reinforcements, allowing you to walk safely while enjoying this unique slice of Alicante’s past.
Scenic Views and Relaxing Stops
As you make your way along the Vía Verde de la Cantera, you’ll be treated to glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Serra Grossa landscape. The pathway offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery, with viewpoints and rest areas dotted along the route.
The coastal path is perfect for those who want to combine a beach day with a bit of exercise. It’s common to see joggers and cyclists taking advantage of the vehicle-free route, which makes it ideal for a relaxing stroll or an invigorating workout. If you’re in need of a break, you can continue down the path until you reach Playa de la Albufereta, where you’ll find a charming chiringuito (beach bar). It’s the perfect place to sit back, have a drink, and soak in the surroundings before deciding whether to continue exploring (you can continue all the way around the peninsula to San Juan Playa if you have the energy) or take the tram back to the city from La Isleta station which is 5 minutes walk from the beach.
Playa de la Albufereta: Alicante’s Hidden Gem
While Playa del Postiguet is well-known, Playa de la Albufereta is a lesser-known treasure among the beaches in Alicante. Located in a quieter part of the city, this small beach offers a more intimate atmosphere with its beautiful sands, palm trees and clear waters. The area is steeped in history, with remnants of Roman fish farms (Viveros de Peces Romanos) nearby, providing an interesting touch of antiquity to your beach day.
One of the highlights of this beach is its laid-back chiringuito, where you can enjoy traditional Spanish tapas, a cold beer, or a refreshing sangria and at the weekends there’s usually a DJ playing some cool tunes. It’s a great spot to unwind after your walk along the Vía Verde de la Cantera. If you don’t feel like walking all the way back to Postiguet, simply hop on the tram at La Isleta station, which conveniently connects you back to Alicante. For those wanting to get back to the beach in Alicante, you can easily catch the Line 5 to Postiguet or catch any other tram line to Luceros and the city centre.
Practical Information for the Walk
If you’re planning to explore this route, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Access: You can start at Playa del Postiguet, making your way along the Paseo de Gómiz until you reach Playa de la Sangueta, where the Vía Verde de la Cantera officially begins.
- Length: The path is about 1.2 kilometres one-way, making it a manageable walk for most people.
- Tram Access: If you prefer not to walk back, take the tram from La Isleta near Playa de la Albufereta, with connections available back to the city centre.
- Hydrate: As always, remember to take some water to stay hydrated
Why This Coastal Path is Perfect for Beach Lovers
The Vía Verde de la Cantera has quickly become a beloved addition to Alicante’s coastline. For those who enjoy exploring beaches in Alicante, this scenic path offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and relaxation. It allows visitors to experience both popular and lesser-known beaches, while immersing themselves in Alicante’s unique charm and heritage.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a pleasant walk by the sea, the route from Postiguet to Albufereta has something for everyone. Plus, with easy tram access, it’s a convenient option for a day out, whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family.
So next time you’re in Alicante, why not take a break from the usual beach day and explore this beautiful new pathway? You’ll not only get to enjoy some of the best beaches in Alicante but also discover a piece of the city’s fascinating history along the way.
For further details on what to do in Alicante and nearby attractions, check out Alicante City Guide for more ideas on how to make the most of your visit.
