​Miss Cookie’s Guide to Getting Around Gran Alacant (When You Don’t Have Four Legs)

Hola, amigos! It’s me, Miss Cookie von Wigglebutz, elegant Pointer-about-town, retired supermodel, and devoted transport consultant for Gran Alacant Properties, here to help you get around town in style, even if you’re not blessed with four long legs and a naturally fabulous strut.

Because while I personally prefer to travel in a convertible with a silk scarf flapping in the breeze, not everyone has a driver on standby or a nose for direction. So whether you're new in town or just need a refresher, here's your wag-by-wag guide to getting around Gran Alacant and beyond without barking up the wrong tree.

Taxis: Fast, Reliable, and No Need to Sniff the Driver 

Gran Alacant has a reliable local taxi service that can whisk you off to the airport, Alicante, Santa Pola, or, heaven forbid, the vet. You can call, flag one down at the taxi rank near the GA Commercial Centre, or use the PideTaxi app. It’s like a treat-dispensing button for humans. Tap, and the car shows up. PideTaxi works with official, regulated taxis and uses standard fares, so no surge pricing or shady extras. The meter should start when the ride begins, not when the taxi is on its way, but if you’re ever unsure, just ask with a sweet smile and a ¿Cuándo empieza el taxímetro?

Tip from a seasoned rider: If you are traveling with a dog, mention your furry friend when you book. Most local drivers are pet-friendly, but let’s not surprise anyone with a tail in the backseat.

Private Transfers

If you like your travel stress-free and on schedule, companies like Beniconnect offer private airport transfers with a friendly meet-and-greet service in the arrivals hall at Alicante airport. You can book online in advance and be driven straight to your doorstep in Gran Alacant, no meter, no detours, no guesswork. Rates start around €31 for a standard car, and there are options for VIP vehicles, larger minibuses, and even adapted vans if you need a little extra space. They’ll even let you book extras like bikes, baby seats, or, my personal favorite, dogs. I do recommend bringing your own blanket, though. Shedding is part of the journey.

They also offer shared shuttles if you're watching your euros and don’t mind a few extra stops. Either way, it’s a smooth, safe ride home with no surprise barking.

Uber: Yes, It Exists Here

Uber has quietly rolled into town like a cat who claims your spot on the sofa. It works just like it does back home. Open the Uber app, tap in your destination, and off you go. That said, this isn’t Madrid or New York, so availability may be limited and wait times a bit unpredictable, especially in high season or late at night. It’s handy if the local taxis are busy or if you want to reserve in advance, like for the airport or train station, any time when punctuality matters. Uber is also a great backup after a long night of tapas, ill-advised karaoke, or one too many cañas at the chiringuito.

Buses: Air-Conditioned, Affordable, and Great for People-Watching

The local bus service connects Gran Alacant to Santa Pola, Alicante, and even the airport. There’s also a circular bus that loops around Gran Alacant itself, stopping at key spots like the shopping centres, the doctor’s surgery, and the beach. You can also catch the bus to Elche from neighbouring Los Arenales del Sol. Just check the timetables at bus stops or in the Gran Alacant Advertiser. The Vectalia website isn’t always cooperative, and the app is still finding its way.

Tip: If you're bringing along a four-legged friend like moi, check ahead. Some bus companies require dogs to travel in a crate, possibly in the luggage hold. Can you imagine? I wouldn’t even put my designer bag down there.

Rental Cars: For the Bold, the Brave, and the Curious

Do you want to explore beyond our little coastal haven, to chase sunsets, find secret coves, explore hilltop villages, or sniff out the best arroz con costra in the Elche countryside? Then darling, you need a car. There are plenty of rental options nearby, including at the airport just 15 minutes away.

We have a soft spot for our friend Enrique at New System Rent A Car in the neighbouring village of El Altet. He’s lovely, no-nonsense, and unlikely to raise an eyebrow if there’s a little dog hair left behind (I leave a bit of canine confetti everywhere I go.) Tell him Miss Cookie at Gran Alacant Properties sent you. You can reach him at 629 743 147. He may not have a Bentley, but he’ll get you where you need to go. Ask him about bringing the car to you in Gran Alacant.

Driver’s note: Roundabouts are everywhere. The left lane is for overtaking, not sightseeing, and always, always exit from the right lane. Trust me, no one wants to see a Pointer rolling her eyes.

Two wheels and a helmet

Gran Alacant isn’t exactly Amsterdam, but you can rent a bicycle to get around if you’re feeling sporty. Just be prepared: we have hills, and some of them are not for the faint of paw. Maybe better to get an e-bike to help you up Cardiac Hill. There’s a bike shop right in the Gran Alacant Commercial Centre called For Riders where you can rent e-bikes starting at 30 euros per day for a mountain bike, with regular bikes for a bit less.

Your Own Two Feet (or Four Paws)

Gran Alacant is delightfully walkable, especially in the cooler months or early mornings and evenings in summer. The lower part of Gran Alacant is nice and flat and particularly comfortable for a gentle stroll.

But that’s not all. From the Clot de Galvany to the cliffs near the Santa Pola lighthouse and scenic overlook, there are coastal paths, secret trails, and stunning miradores perfect for photo ops—preferably with me in them. Just avoid midday walks in summer. Hot pavement is no joke, darling.

So, pop on your hat and your most glamorous shades, pack some water, and go explore. Bonus points if you bring snacks for me.

Other Ways to Get Around

In nearby cities like Elche and Alicante, you might spot electric scooters or app-based bike systems, but they’re not widely available in Gran Alacant... yet. If you see one, go ahead and give it a whirl. Just wear a helmet and try not to run over any dogs named Cookie.

Usually, we have a little tourist train that runs all year in Gran Alacant. It was a charming way to get around town without breaking a sweat, especially for kids, grandparents, and those of us with fabulous hair that shouldn’t be disturbed by too much exertion. People absolutely loved it—and we really miss it. Some drivers even let well-behaved pups like me ride along (always ask first, of course). It’s not in service at the moment, but we’re all crossing our paws that it returns soon. Gran Alacant just isn’t quite the same without it.

Final Woofs of Wisdom

• If you're staying in a holiday rental or hotel, ask the staff to call a taxi or show you the nearest stop.
• Carry water. Hydrated humans mean longer walkies.
• For airport runs or day trips, pre-book your taxi or Uber and save yourself a headache.
• Bringing a pet? Confirm in advance if they're welcome, and bring a towel for them to sit on. We shed with enthusiasm.

Whether you're headed to the market in Santa Pola, a sunset dinner in Alicante, or popping out for churros at the Valor in the port, getting around Gran Alacant is easy and occasionally fabulous.

That’s all from me for now. May your journeys be smooth, your taxis on time, and your paws always pointed toward adventure. Safe travels, my darlings.

Besitos and belly rubs,

Miss Cookie von Wigglebutz 

 

Links:

PideTaxi

Beniconnect https://www.beniconnect.com/

Uber https://www.uber.com/es/en/

New System Rent A Car https://parkingnewsystem.com/

For Riders https://forriders.es/en/