Exclusive Encounter with the King of Benidorm
On a late Sunday evening in February, the King of Benidorm, Nigel Pope, was spotted zipping along the promenade on his brightly decorated mobility scooter. Without a crown or regal jewels, he still commands attention through his vibrant online presence and daily streams from Britain's beloved Spanish resort. During a recent meeting in Alicante for the opening of Spain's first Wetherspoons, Nigel shared his passion for Benidorm's inclusive spirit, stating, "What I love about Benidorm is it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, you’re welcome."
Top Picks for Drinking and Dining
Benidorm boasts a plethora of bars, ideal for events like the World Cup with massive outdoor screens. Nigel's favourites include the Jolly Roger, a pirate-themed beachfront bar known for rum, costumes, and live music by Brazilian guitarist Rafa Raposo. For a lively night out, he recommends Morgan Tavern, celebrated as the best cabaret club with up to seven shows nightly, featuring impersonators like Liam Gallagher and 2 Cool as LL Cool J.
When it comes to eating, British-style pubs abound, with the Yorkshire Pride offering a budget-friendly roast at £11 for a full plate, water, and a pint. Nigel also praises Taperia la Mina in the Old Town for its value deal of two pints and six tapas for £10. A standout is Uncle Ron’s, famous worldwide for its €1 (87p) pints of Estrella and the Belly Buster Brek challenge, where finishing the massive dish in under 20 minutes earns a free meal and a spot on the wall of fame.
Must-See Attractions and Natural Wonders
Beyond the city's vibrant nightlife, a short trip reveals stunning natural beauty. The Fonts de l’Algar or Algar Waterfalls, located ten miles from Benidorm, feature cascading falls and deep swimming pools perfect for cooling off in the summer heat. While busy in peak season, they offer solitude in winter or early spring.
Among Benidorm's six beaches, Nigel favours Mal Pas, a sandy cove nestled between Levante and Poniente beaches. With sun loungers along its 120-metre stretch and clear, warm waters, it provides a tranquil escape, opposite Benidorm Island, a popular spot for scuba divers.
Accommodation Options and Historical Context
Benidorm's tourism infrastructure is massive, with nearly 100,000 hotel beds at its peak, hosting close to 12 million visitors annually. The skyline is dominated by towering hotels, led by the 47-floor Intempo building, a result of 1950s development under mayor Pedro Zaragoza Orts, backed by General Franco's high-rise plans and bikini ban lift.
Nigel recommends 2Sleep Apartments in the Old Town for good views and prices around £50 per night for two, the 33-storey Torre Levante with rooms at £30 nightly, and the four-star Barcelo Benidorm, featuring a roof pool with disabled access, priced at approximately £150 per night.
Best Time to Visit and Final Insights
Surprisingly, August is the quietest period in Benidorm, with fewer Brits visiting and some bars closed, leading to cheaper hotel rates. However, travellers should be prepared for potentially scorching temperatures. Nigel's insights highlight Benidorm as a versatile destination, blending affordability, entertainment, and natural charm for all visitors.
