If you are looking for a charming, interesting cove to visit in winter, you should not miss Tío Ximo cove. It is one of those pebble and sand beaches, situated amongst the cliffs, with a lot of charm. It offers many attractions, whether you like to observe the seabed with rich fauna and flora, or if you prefer to discover the geological formations and history inland. Its turquoise, crystalline waters, panoramic views and natural conservation make it a treasure for photography lovers.

Tio Ximo Cove

It is located in the Sierra Helada and is at the end of the ravine with the same name. It was formed thanks to the erosion produced by rainwater and is the longest in the sierra.

The toponym was adopted in the second half of the 19th century, when Joaquín Arquín, known as Tio (Uncle) Ximo, and his wife acquired the land. The terraces on the slope of the ravine and a cottage that they lent to the inhabitants of the village because it was a very healthy place, date back to that period. Next to the carob trees, vines and a fig tree planted by uncle Ximo, you will find typical Mediterranean vegetation in the form of pines, bushes and aromatic herbs, such as lavender.

The Ochre mine

In the 1940s, Uncle Ximo was forced to agree to the exploitation of an ochre mine on his land. It was the last of the ochre mines to close in the sierra and is probably the most developed artificial cavity in the entire province of Alicante. If you get closer, the type of ochre found is yellow, especially lepidocrocite and goethite, which was formed in the Triassic period. This mineral was used to manufacture paints at the time when it was exploited.

A cove that must be visited due to the beauty of its seabed

It is an unforgettable jewel if you are fond of snorkelling or scuba diving, due to the wealth of flora and fauna that you will discover. You can’t miss carrying out its circular route. The high degree of transparency of the water in this site will allow you to discover large islets of posidonia along with beautiful carpets of white sand, rocks and pebbles. It is home to octopuses and cuttlefish, striped seabream, painted combers, spotted flounders, blennies and dreamfish, among other species. During your tour, you will be surrounded by clouds of damselfish, where the blue flashes of the youngest fish are one of the most beautiful spectacles of nature.

Characteristics

You will find a small sized cove that appropriately faces the right direction to gaze whilst spellbound, the pink sunsets so characteristic of the Mediterranean. It is fully accessible which makes it suitable for children or people with mobility difficulties. Undoubtedly, it is a beautiful place to stroll along. It offers a great contrast to the extensive sandy beaches of Benidorm and its hustle and bustle.

It is one of those beaches to see near Benidorm. It is just before Almadraba Cove and you can reach it by car, although there is no parking. It is best leave your car and use the parking area of the viewpoint at the tip of l’Escaleta.

In summer as well as in winter

In summer, its calm, tranquil waters, which almost never change, attract local bathers who flee from other beaches with currents. The same is true in winter. This way, it is an ideal place for kayaking at any time of the year if you are an amateur. Furthermore, you are in for a pleasant surprise. If you want to carry out the route from this cove to Almadraba cove by canoe, you will find the Barbero cave halfway, a space with stunning views. Access by land is a bit complicated and we only recommend it if you are very agile. It’s not recommended if you have small children.

A place to take good photos

Whether you are a fan of underwater photography or land photography, this is a cove that is a must-see. The cliffs, the changing colours depending on the light of the day, the views of Benidorm and the sunsets offer you a unique spectacle that you will not forget. If you want to capture the essence of the Mediterranean Sea, this is undoubtedly the right beach for you.

In short, Tio Ximo is a cove that must be visited in winter and summer. It is an enclave to enjoy whether for a romantic stroll, or as a family outing or for snorkelling and kayaking. Come and discover it.