This quiet resort on the Costa Blanca is a far cry from the larger, more built up resorts on this section of the coast. Previously a fishing village, Altea has managed to maintain its charm with cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and an attractive marina. The tidy promenade lined with smart shops and restaurants gives the resort an upmarket feel, and is favoured by those looking for a relaxing holiday in a tranquil setting.
Altea’s old town is well worth a visit – the medieval streets and quaint shops are a snapshot of the Costa Blanca’s past, before it was transformed by the booming tourism industry. The cobbled streets climb upwards through the town to a breathtaking viewpoint, a perfect opportunity for photographs of the bay below. The Virgin del Consuelo Church is the town’s most well-known landmark, instantly recognisable by its beautiful blue dome.
Altea has a small number of beaches on offer including Cap Negret and Cap Blanch, but their pebbled terrain often leaves visitors venturing further afield to find stretches of sand in Benidorm and Calpe. If you don’t want to go too far, La Roda is Altea’s one sandy beach, or you can check out the quiet coves at La Solsida and La Galera.
Altea is well-placed for day trips to explore the surrounding area. Benidorm, Calpe and the village of Nucia are all within 30 minutes’ drive, and nature lovers will be eager to explore the Sierra de Bernia Mountains that serve as a stunning backdrop to Altea. Terra Mitica theme park is also just a short drive away, where kids will love the hair-raising rollercoasters!
2 hrs
(from London)
Euro
Spanish
GMT +1
€2
€14