Discover the Costa Blanca on the Alicante TRAM Line 9 – Tourist train from Benidorm to Denia
Discover the Costa Blanca on the Alicante TRAM Line 9 – Tourist train from Benidorm to Denia
The Alicante TRAM Line 9 is one of the most picturesque and popular routes on the Costa Blanca. It connects Benidorm with Denia, offering a trip full of stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, picturesque coastal towns and the charms of Marina Alta and Marina Baixa. This route has also been the route of the pioneering “Limon Express“, the first Spanish tourist train that operated between 1971 and 2005 from Benidorm to Gata de Gorgos.
In this post, we tell you everything you need to know about this line, what you can see and why it is a unique experience.
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The Route and Highlights of Line 9
Line 9, which links Benidorm station with Denia, follows the route of the famous “Limon Express” train from La Marina. This service connects Benidorm, Alfaz del Pi, Altea, Calpe, Benissa, Teulada, Gata de Gorgos and Denia. The journey with 17 stops takes approximately 90 minutes and covers approximately 55 kilometres.
- Benidorm: This is the starting point of the line, a city famous for its vibrant nightlife and beaches.
- Alfaz del Pi/Albir: It is located outside the urban area of Alfaz del Pi, heading south along the Camino del Mar.
- Altea: At this stop, you can enjoy the stunning sea views and explore the old town of Altea, known for its bohemian charm and blue-domed church.
- Calpe: The TRAM also stops in Calpe, where you can see the iconic Peñón de Ifach and enjoy its golden sandy beaches.
- Benissa, Teulada, Gata de Gorgos and La Xara: These stops bring you closer to the inland towns, with mountainous landscapes and a rich offer of rural tourism.
- Denia: It is a city full of history and culture, with a charming port, extensive beaches and the famous Denia Castle, which offers panoramic views of the entire coast.
A romantic experience
Alicante tram line 9 links the Marina Baja with the Marina Alta. This line runs along the old La Marina train route and was the last TRAM line to operate without electrification, allowing the circulation of diesel-powered MAN railcars. The current units that run between Denia and Benidorm are Series 5000 diesel-electric propulsion.
In addition, this route coincides with the historic “Limon Express“, the first tourist train in Spain, in operation from 1971 to 2005.
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History
The Alicante Metropolitan TRAM passenger transport network began its development based on the axis of the narrow-gauge railway line that connected the city of Alicante with Denia. This line has its origins in the first railway section between Alicante and Altea, inaugurated in 1914. A year later, in 1915, the route was extended to Denia. Originally, the route covered a distance of 93,235 kilometres. This route is characterised by its uneven configuration, especially in the section between Altea and Denia, where there are slopes, 2,5 kilometres of tunnels, 7 viaducts and 17 metal bridges that exceed 8 metres in height.
Initially, the line was conceived for the transport of goods, mainly raisins and wine, key products in the economy of the area at that time. With the decline of these crops and the rise of tourism on the Costa Blanca, the line focused exclusively on passenger transport.
Benefits of Traveling on Line 9
The Alicante TRAM on Line 9 offers many benefits that make this experience a special one:
- Panoramic views: The route runs along the coast and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean, cliffs, coves and mountains.
- Flexibility: The schedules are frequent and allow you to get off at any stop, then retake your journey.
- Affordable price: The cost of the ticket is cheap compared to other means of transport, making it a great option for travelers and residents
Tips to Make the Most of Line 9
To make the most of your trip on Line 9, it is advisable to plan the stops in the towns and cities that interest you the most. You can choose to buy round-trip tickets or a daily ticket, which allows you to get on and off throughout the day. Also, make sure to bring your camera, as the route is full of landscapes and corners perfect for capturing.
Another recommendation is to take advantage of the gastronomic offer at each stop. From fresh seafood in Denia to tapas and rice dishes in Altea, the Costa Blanca is a paradise for lovers of good food.
Tramnochador
The Tramnochador night services, previously called Trensnochador, are a transport option offered by Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Valenciana (FGV) that is usually offered on weekends in summer from Alicante towards San Juan and El Campello. Since 2015, this offer was complemented by El Mussol de les Marines, which connected Benidorm and Altea.
Timetables and Accessibility
TRAM Line 9 operates regularly and its frequency varies depending on the season. In general, trains depart every hour, although it is advisable to check the updated timetables on the official Alicante TRAM website before travelling. Due to track works, timetables may be subject to change and some sections may be covered by bus. It is recommended to consult the Alicante Tram website.
BOOK here your experience on the Costa Blanca
Alicante TRAM Line 9 is more than just a means of transport; it is an experience in itself that allows tourists and residents to explore the Costa Blanca in a comfortable and sustainable way. With a route that passes through some of the most beautiful places in the region, this line has become a popular choice for those who want to discover the essence of the Costa Blanca. If you are planning a visit, do not hesitate to include the TRAM in your itinerary and enjoy a trip full of history, landscapes and local flavour.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure between Benidorm and Denia!
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