Traveling to a new country or city can be exhilarating, but it also comes with a long list of queries and concerns, one of which is the safety of drinking tap water. If you’re heading to the charming town of Javea, Spain, you may be wondering: Can I drink the tap water? Let’s find out.

Also read: 16 things to do in Javea

Tap Water in Spain

Spain, as a part of the European Union, has strict regulations regarding the quality and safety of its drinking water. The EU Drinking Water Directive mandates that water suppliers meet high standards for their water’s cleanliness and safety. As a result, in general, the tap water in Spain is safe to drink.

Tap Water in Javea, Spain

Javea, situated in the Valencian region of Spain, adheres to these same EU regulations. The town’s tap water undergoes regular testing to ensure it meets health and safety requirements. Therefore, technically speaking, the tap water in Javea is considered safe to drink.

However, like many coastal areas and towns in Spain, the tap water in Javea may have a slightly different taste compared to what you might be used to due to the minerals it contains. This doesn’t mean it’s unsafe; it’s just a difference in water hardness, which varies from region to region.

In Javea, the water supply primarily comes from groundwater sources, which tend to have a higher concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. This can give the water a “hard” characteristic, and some people may notice a slightly metallic or chalky taste.

What Do Locals and Travelers Do?

Many locals and travelers in Javea choose to drink bottled water, not because of health concerns, but because of the taste of the tap water. Bottled water is widely available and relatively inexpensive in supermarkets throughout the town.

Alternatively, many people use water filters or buy large refillable jugs of purified water for their drinking water needs. In restaurants, it’s also more common to serve bottled water, but if you prefer tap water, you can always request it.

A Note on Hydration and Safety

Staying hydrated, especially during the hot summer months in Spain, is crucial. Whether you choose to drink tap water, bottled water, or filtered water, make sure you’re consuming enough fluids throughout the day.

Remember, when it comes to health and safety, it’s always wise to follow any local advisories and guidelines. Although tap water is generally safe in Javea, circumstances can change, and there may be times when you are advised to drink bottled water due to maintenance or issues with the local water supply.

To conclude, while the tap water in Javea, Spain, is generally safe to drink as per EU regulations, many visitors and residents prefer bottled or filtered water due to the hard nature and distinct taste of the tap water. When in doubt, opt for bottled water or seek local advice to ensure your stay in Javea remains both pleasant and healthy.