Ermita de la Virgen del Mar

The Ermita de la Virgen del Mar is a small, simple chapel perched on the cliff above Poniente beach in Benidorm, about 100 metres above sea level, near the top of Tossal de la Cala. It holds a small image of the Virgin of the Sea holding the Child, traditionally venerated as the protector of sailors heading out to fish. Its small size and near-total lack of ornamentation set it apart from the large churches in the town centre, and that plainness is part of its character: this is, above all, a quiet place on top of the cliff.

History

Local tradition holds that it was built in gratitude for protection received during storms, at a time when fishing was one of the main activities in Benidorm before tourism reshaped the town. It remains a place of pilgrimage and devotion for those who keep that maritime memory alive, and it is common for locals to walk up with no particular purpose beyond the exercise and the view.

The views

Beyond its religious value, the hermitage's draw is the view: from here the whole bay of Benidorm opens out, with the Illa de Benidorm offshore, the Serra Gelada Natural Park to one side, and Puig Campana rising in the distance. It's reached on foot up a fairly steep path, around twenty minutes from the far end of Poniente beach, so proper footwear helps and it's worth avoiding the hottest hours in summer. Visitors who would rather not walk can also drive and park close to the hermitage itself, though the final stretch on foot is the same for everyone. The combination of sea, cliff and Benidorm's skyline in the background makes the short climb worth the effort, especially at sunset, when low light spreads across the whole bay and the white buildings of the old town catch the last sun.