Orba. Fifteen minutes from the centre of the Village of Orba looking down to the sea. This is in the area called the Costa Blanca. The town is located to the west of Javea and Denia, and is part of Alicante Province. You can get very close to the town by following the AP-7 motorway from the local airports: Alicante which is approximately 107 km to the south; or Murcia airport which is 191 km to the south or Valencia airport which is 120 km to the north. Orba accommodation: The Costa Blanca in general is great for finding accommodation. You will find that the Internet is full of different type of hotels, guesthouses, self catering, and even camp sites for you to stay in. Since Orba is only a small town there is a limited choice when it comes to accommodation. If you can’t find the accommodation in Orba, then you should try some of the neighbouring towns such as Benidoleig, Murla, Tormos, Sanet y Negrals, Sagra, Pedreguer or Alcalali. Once you have found what you are looking for, then you should book it straight away, especially in high season. Many people who come to the Costa Blanca will stay in the larger towns and tourist resorts. Here, that would mean staying in Denia, Javea, or even Benidorm. However more and more people want the peace and quiet of the small mountain villages, where there are so many different activities available. Check out the tourist information offices either in Benidorm or in Alicante for information on accommodation in Orba. A local campsite is at Camping Vall de Laguar; located on Calle de San Antonio 24, Campell, 03791. The services offered here include an adult swimming pool and the childrens pool. There are also plenty of activities that one can take part in the area including hiking, adventure sports. Renting a car in Orba another must when it comes to visiting this town is transport. The local transportation is very limited and you should really rent a car to get around.  You can hire a car at the airport on arrival or in any major city. All of the major car rental companies will have representation at the airport and the cities, however it is better to hire a car on-line prior to departure. There are plenty of good deals available. Many people come to the Costa Blanca on cycling holidays and for those who are fit enough, there are various places where you can hire mountain bikes. What to see in Orba: History The towns name is derived from the old Arabic term Orba Ur, denoting a place from which water pours from the mountain. This in itself gives a clue to how the town first originated. Although there is evidence of settlement dating back from prehistoric times, the beginnings of the town are said to be from the Moorish settlers. These inhabitants have made a lasting mark in these areas, building farmhouses, making agriculture and the harvest of produce an important supply of income. During the mid 13th century, the area was invaded and conquered by troops led by Jaime I of Aragon. Ownership of the towns was given to respective members of their group, as a reward and show of gratitude for their support. The ownership was handed down or sold to different members of nobility. The Moors continued to reside in these areas until they were forced to move out in 1609. Due to this several towns became deserted. A number of municipalities, including Orba were repopulated with immigrants coming from Murla, Pego and Majorca. Architecture: Some historical manmade structures dating back to the Christian and Moorish settlements still stand to this day. Some were built for defensive purposes while others were used for more religious functions. The 13th century Castellet is one of the oldest structures, although currently in ruins,it was initially built as Christian defensive fortress. Another structure worth seeing is the 16th century Honorable House built for members of nobility. Near the Orba Castle are the Fontilles Ravine and Gorge Dam, which were constructed to provide irrigation in the surrounding areas. More recent structures include the local parish church and the bell tower. As a Christian community, towns in Spain normally contain one or more chapels. In the town of Orba, on top of the old mosque, is where the town’s parish church was constructed during the 19th century. Another structure built during the same period was the bell tower. Constructed out of limestone ashlar, the tower is square shaped.The municipality is known for a wide variety of produce including citrus fruits, almonds and olives. Although the town of Orba is primarily an agricultural area, it is also known for a mixture of other products including ceramic pottery and bags constructed out of palm leaves. Some can be brought home as souvenirs or be used right after buying from the local shops.

What to Do: In addition to seeing the sights and trying some of the local produce, tourists should also get a taste of the native culture. One way of doing so is by participating in one of the many events celebrated within the municipality each year. Spain is known for having several holidays, a number of which are influenced or are dedicated to various important biblical figures. This includes the Schutzheiligfest or the feast dedicated to the town’s patron saint, the Virgin of the Hopeless. This is celebrated during the 2nd weekend of May with activities such as a float parade and fireworks. Another is the San Cristo de Orbeta, celebrated during the 2nd weekend of July. A few weeks later, beginning with the last Friday of the month of July up until the 1st Saturday of August, the Folk Festivals are held. There are fairs and competitions involving animals during this festival. Of course, one can always head down to the coast. There are some excellent cities along the Costa Blanca coastline either for day trips, or for a good night out. Sport Although the town of Olba is small compared to other towns in the province, it holds a considerable number of sporting facilities for public use. There is the Municipal Poliderportivo which has areas for football, handball, tennis, ratchet ball, tennis and even a swimming pool. Trails are also common in these areas, perfect for hiking and mountain climbing. Orba Golfing In areas surrounding the town of Orba, golfing can also be considered a good source of income. A number of golf courses have become renowned worldwide, drawing crowds of tourists each year. These include Ifach Golf Club, La Sella and Oliva Nova Golf. The weather in Orba: Just like everywhere in the area, the weather in Orba are usually very warm and sun-drenched. The winters are balmy and sunny the summers are lovely and hot. Rainfall does not arrive frequently but it is well accepted that it does rain from time to time. It can regularly involve a thirst-quenching pause from the constant heat. In the valley there are Villas, Apartments, Town houses, Village House, New Build and Land for sale a popular area for Ex-pats.