EL CASTELL DE L’OLLA: WHERE THE SEA BECOMES A CANVAS OF LIGHT AND FIREWORKS, Cap Negret Hotel

There are summer nights that remain etched in your memory forever, and in Altea there is one that shines with its own light.

For more than 35 years, on the Saturday closest to the feast of San Lorenzo, the bay of Altea is transformed into a magical setting where art, tradition and emotion intertwine to create an experience that awakens all the senses.

Declared a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest, El Castell de l'Olla brings together around 80,000 people every year who come to experience a unique fireworks display first-hand. More than 1,500 kilos of gunpowder are launched from five floating platforms located in the sea off La Olla beach, enveloping those who witness it in a truly magical atmosphere.

The story that illuminates Altea

The Castell de l'Olla has its roots in ancient Mediterranean traditions. .

Every year, during the festivities in honour of Saint Lawrence, a small fireworks display was launched from the beach in Altea. However, in 1987, a group of young friends, members of the festival committee, wanted to pay tribute to local pyrotechnician Blas Aznar, known locally as ‘Uncle Blai, the rocket man’, and launched a slightly larger fireworks display than in previous years.

This initiative was so well received that they decided to found the Cofradía del Castell (Castell Brotherhood), with the aim of integrating fireworks as an essential part of Altea's cultural identity. Today, the Brotherhood is made up of 16 people who, with dedication and passion, work throughout the year to improve each edition.

Over the years, the Castell evolved until a decision was made that would transform it completely: to launch the fireworks from floating platforms in the sea , allowing the entire show to be enjoyed from anywhere in the bay. Since then, the Castell de l'Olla has continued to grow, attracting thousands of people every summer and establishing itself as one of the most iconic pyrotechnic events in the Mediterranean . A true 21-minute symphony in which lights and colours dance on the water, creating an atmosphere of magic and unforgettable excitement.

From the sea to the sky and international recognition

Castell de l'Olla has not only won over the public, but has also been honoured with important awards that recognise its cultural, tourist and artistic value.

In 1999, it received the Gold Award for Merit in Tourism from the Costa Blanca Provincial Tourist Board in recognition of its contribution to the development and promotion of tourism in the province.

In 2007, it was declared a Festival of Tourist Interest in the Valencian Community, consolidating its importance in the region's festive calendar.

And in 2016, UNESCO sponsored Castell de l'Olla as part of the cultural events promoted by the international organisation, highlighting it as the only pyrotechnic castle in the world that is launched entirely from the sea.

Live the magic of Castell de l’Olla in Cap Negret

At Hotel Cap Negret, Castell de l'Olla is not just a special date: it is a night that we organise and look forward to with excitement.

Every year, we carefully prepare a very special evening so that, whether you are staying with us or just coming to enjoy the event, you can experience this tradition in a privileged setting.

The night begins with an exclusive cocktail dinner , where the flavours of the Mediterranean are combined with live music and shows that bring the night to life.

Thanks to our location, close to La Olla beach, we can watch the fireworks display from the front row, seeing how the sky and the sea merge in an authentic symphony of light and colour. A dazzling spectacle that puts the finishing touch to a night that, once you have experienced it, you will want to repeat again and again.

Experience the Castell as a local

To enjoy the magic of Castell de l'Olla without any hiccups, it is important to bear a few details in mind. This special night brings together thousands of people, so here are some useful tips:

• Arrive early to choose a good spot and avoid the crowds.

• If you choose to watch the show from the beach, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as the beaches in Altea are pebbly.

• The most practical way to get there is to walk from the centre of Altea or use public transport, which extends its hours for the occasion.

• If you prefer to come by car, plan your arrival in advance, as traffic and parking are limited on that day.

Enjoying Castell de L'Olla is much more than just watching fireworks: it is immersing yourself in a tradition full of light and emotion that makes the Costa Blanca an even more special place.

Will you join us for this edition?