Cabo de la Nao is a stunning natural landmark located in the province of Alicante, Spain. This rocky headland juts out into the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. The name "Cabo de la Nao" is derived from the Spanish word for "cape", and it is easy to see why this area is so named - the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves make for a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Beyond its natural beauty, Cabo de la Nao is also rich in history. For centuries, the cape has played an important role in the maritime trade routes of the Mediterranean Sea, and it was a key destination for sailors and traders. Today, visitors can explore the area's caves and rock formations, take in the stunning viewpoints, and enjoy a wide range of recreational activities.
Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to escape to a peaceful location, Cabo de la Nao offers something for everyone. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities available at this captivating destination, and explore why Cabo de la Nao is a must-visit destination in 2023.
How do you get to Cabo de la Nao? Cabo de la Nao is located on the easternmost tip of not only Javea, but the Costa Blanca, the province of Alicante, and the Valencian Community! It can be reached by following the Carretera Cabo la Nao road until you reach the Cabo de la Nao lighthouse, one of the most significant landmarks of the area. Driving, it takes around 15 minutes from Central Javea, but can also be accessed cycling and hiking for those feeling adventurous! Overall, the cape is surrounded by beautiful Mediterranean landscape and cliffs that drop into the sea over a hundred meters below your feet!
The easiest way to get to Cabo de la Nao is by car. The cape is located on the N-332 coastal road which runs between the towns of Javea and Denia. You can also follow the Carretera Cabo la Nao once in Javea, or write in the GPS “Carretera Cabo la Nao, 154, 03738 Xàbia, Alicante”! This road is well-paved and offers several parking areas, allowing visitors to pull over and take in the views. There is a big parking lot near the cape, with space for many cars and buses.
There is also a bike lane in the coastal road that runs along the cape, and it's an excellent option for those who want to do some exercise while enjoying the views.
Cabo de la Nao is a natural wonder that should not be missed, and one of the most unique and exhilarating ways to experience it is through kayaking. The kayak excursion carried out by Siesta Advisor is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting the area. We will talk about it in more detail in the next section!
Cabo de la Nao is a destination that offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the highlights of the area is the Cova dels Orguens, an incredible cave that can only be accessed by kayak. This unique cave is home to a beautiful underground lake and a wide variety of subterranean fauna.
Another great option for visitors is visiting one of Javea's least known beaches, where you can find peace and quiet and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. For those looking for panoramic views,
Javea's viewpoints are a must-see. From these vantage points, you can take in the stunning beauty of the coast and the Mediterranean Sea, and marvel at the dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops of Cabo de la Nao. With so much to see and do, Cabo de la Nao is the perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape to a peaceful location.
Cova dels Orguens is a sea cave located at the base of Cabo de la Nao and is one of Spain's largest sea caves. Measuring an impressive 46 meters in the middle, it is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder. The cave can only be accessed by the water and kayak, making it a unique and exclusive destination for visitors.
The Cova dels Orguens is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colourful fish and seabirds (swallows). Inside, you'll find a beautiful underground lake that reflects the light that enters through the cave's skylights and creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Furthermore, the cave system of Cova dels Orguens is complex, and it has many smaller caves that can be explored.
Another hidden gem at Cabo de la Nao is its secret beach. This small and secluded beach is not easily accessible, which makes it the perfect spot for those looking for an intimate escape from the more crowded beach hotspots. It's secluded location and lack of amenities also mean that it tends to be less crowded and more peaceful, allowing visitors to fully relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It can be accessed by going to the road Calle Francesco Gasparini 36.
Another exciting thing to look forward to at this beach is the exotic Dragon's Cave which is located just a short swim away. It's one of the most beautiful caves in the area, where the sunlight enters creating a unique atmosphere and it's also home for an abundance of marine life. The most impressive thing about the cave is the sounds you hear inside! When there is some movement in the water, you hear an incredible growling and roaring noise, as if there was a dragon inside! It is truly incredible.
Cabo de la Nao is not only known for its natural beauty but also for the incredible viewpoints it offers. The first viewpoint, located next to the Restaurante Cabo de la Nao, offers a panoramic view of the Isla del Descubridor and Cala Ambolo, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Moraira, Calpe and even Benidorm! The second viewpoint, Les Pesqueres on Calle Joaquín Turina, is similar and offers some shaded areas to sit and admire the view.
The third viewpoint, also known as Mirador Cabo de la Nao, is next to the lighthouse, facing the east, which makes it a perfect spot for watching the sunrise. This viewpoint offers a unique and different perspective of the cape and its surroundings, and it's an excellent spot for watching the sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea. The three viewpoints offer a great opportunity to take in the stunning views, and visitors can admire the natural beauty of the area, with the bonus of a panoramic view of the coastline.
The history of Cabo de la Nao is closely tied to its importance as a natural landmark and its location on the Mediterranean Sea. For centuries, the cape has been a key destination for sailors and traders, as it marked the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula, and as such, a important navigational reference. The cape also provided shelter for ships before making the crossing to the Mediterranean sea and African coast.
In ancient times, the cape was known as a sacred place and was used as a religious site by the Iberian people. The Romans also had an important military installation in the area, and it was known as a strategic point of control.
During the Middle Ages, the cape was used as a watchtower to protect the coast from invaders, and a lighthouse was built there in the 16th century to guide ships through the dangerous waters.
Cabo de la Nao has also played an important role in scientific history. In the 19th century, several scientific expeditions were sent to the cape to study its geology, botany and marine life, which led to the discovery of several new species in the area.
Overall, the history of Cabo de la Nao is a fascinating mix of natural, religious, strategic, and scientific significance, making it a place of great interest to history buffs and visitors alike.
In conclusion, Cabo de la Nao is a breath-taking natural landmark located in the province of Alicante, Spain. This rocky headland offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including exploring hidden caves like Cova dels Orguens and secluded beaches like the secret beach at the base of the cape, hiking to the viewpoints like the three distinctive miradors, and taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. With its rich history, diverse recreational opportunities and beautiful natural surroundings, Cabo de la Nao is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Cabo de la Nao has something for everyone.
