The island of Portichol is one of the best known attractions of Jávea. Don't you know it yet? Within our boat tours it is one of the key points during the crossings. Below, we will tell you what hides this island, what is hidden under its waters and inside the rocky walls that make up its cove.

Portichol: The magic of the Mediterranean in a cove 

The cove of Portixol (also known as the cove of La Barranca) has become one of the most visited enclaves of Denia, and no wonder. This beach holds a great historical wealth. In fact, today it is one of the most important ancient sites. The location of more than one hundred Roman anchors has made Portixol cove the region with the highest concentration of anchors in the entire Mediterranean Sea.

Today its natural beauty is tinged by the trace of the human being in the form of small and old fishermen's houses. White and with blue windows, they intermingle in a mountainous and enveloping landscape.

However, its interest lies not only in its archaeological or touristic richness. It also lies in its surprising natural wealth. The vast variety of marine species makes it a perfect enclave for the practice of underwater activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling.

Safeguarded by the steep cliffs of Cap Negre, this cove is home to several small caves that can be accessed by swimming. Inside, icy water flows over its rocky walls.

In addition, there are other more inaccessible caves that are shrouded in mystery and legends of remote treasures. One example is La Cueva del Tabaco (Tobacco Cave), where contraband goods such as tobacco and oil were hidden. The Cueva del Oro (Gold Cave), deep in the rocky walls where treasure hunts have been carried out and where Neolithic vestiges have been found, deserves special mention.

But as if that weren't enough, beyond the coast lies the real treasure: The Portichol Island.

The island of Portichol: The natural treasure it holds within it

With an extension of more than 300 meters in diameter, this natural elevation of up to 75 meters high, holds a treasure inside.

Despite its rocky orography, Portichol Island has been inhabited by humans throughout history. 

In order to access this impressive rock formation we can access by three ways: A boat trip, a jet ski, a kayak, or swimming. Although this last option is not the most advisable because of the risk posed by the confluence of currents caused by the effect of the winds.

The beginning of the crossing is already a contact with the history of the enclave. Throughout the journey over its waters a seabed full of treasures detained in time is circumvented. In its depths lie the remains of the powerful commercial activity that developed in the area. Amphoras and anchors from distant times when a fish factory dominated the Punta del Arenal.

Already on the island we discover in its walls impressive fossil remains that reveal its long history. Among them are the remains of archaic settlements that date back to Phoenician times. Already in its interior we can find one of its most surprising corners: A natural pool seated between its nooks and crannies that very possibly was used by the Romans who inhabited the island in times of storm. Undoubtedly, the interior pool of this island makes possible one of the most fascinating baths of all the Mediterranean.

Visit the island of Portichol with our boat tours

Undoubtedly, Portichol Island is one of the most magical transit points of our boat tours in Denia. Not only for its breathtaking scenery or the undeniable beauty of each of its corners. Also for its legacy and history. Anchoring along the cove of Portixol is in turn a unique opportunity to delve into magical and semi-hidden corners and practice activities such as diving, snorkeling or just a relaxing swim in the magical intimacy provided by its natural architecture.

Would you like to go into this wonderful cove and know the great treasure that is hidden inside Portichol Island? Contact us and book one of our routes, or a boat with or without skipper. You will live an unforgettable experience.