Villajoyosa or La Vila Joiosa in Valencian, means 'joyful or happy town'. This very popular Costa Blanca City is situated at the mouth of the River Sella and is the main town of the La Marina region. It is also the home town of Montiboli Estates S.L.

The town is a much older town than Benidorm and the locals say that it is close enough to Benidorm whilst being far enough away! It is only 10 Km to Benidorm and the route is filled with olive, carob and almond trees, as well as a number of palms, pines and prickly pears.

As with many of the east coast towns, Villajoyosa suffered from attacks by the Barbary Coast Pirates. According to legend and possibly a little history, on the 29th of July 1538 36 boats carrying Algerians arrived to ransack the town but the inhabitants were able to fight them off thanks to the intercession of Saint Martha.

Since that day, she has been the town´s Patron Saint and the fact is commemorated annualy (24th - 31st July) with re-enactment of the landing of the Moors.

Alphons Xlll granted city status to Villajoyosa in 1911.
As well as tourism, Villajoyosa is the home of fishermen and chocolate-makers, a strange combination but both of which are deeply rooted in the City's history.

The original and older part of town has been declared an historic monument. There are still various bridges remaining from the time of the Romans.

Villajoyosa's church is a Gothic building with renaissance doorways, although these have been somewhat changed by Neo-classical alterations carried out in the 18th century.

If history does not interest you then the beaches certainly will. The nearest beach to the city centre is the Playa de la Vila and slightly further can be found Paraiso. Both are excellent. A little further and you will find the Torre and Estudiantes Beaches.

So typical of the Costa Blanca is the myriad's of coves and bays. Villajoyosa has its fare share of these, some quite secluded. Among these can be found Bon Nou, or the Colonia Holandesa, both sheltered from the North wind and described as havens of peace and tranquillity.