Altea

Altea is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful places in Spain, located on White Coast, in Alicante Province, on the Costa Blanca region. Situated just 11 km away from Benidorm and 62 km north of the El Altet International Airport in Alicante, Altea is strategically situated on the N332, which is easily accessible via the A7 motorway running between Valencia and Alicante. Sometimes referred to as the artists’ capital of Costa Blanca – the place is filled with such great attractions as medieval cobbled streets, historic monuments, shingled beaches, and art galleries. Discussed in detail in this article are some of the significant attractions of Altea.

One of the most distinctive highlights of Altea is the Parish Church of the Virgin del Consuelo at the Old Town Center, which is noted for its glorious blue dome and dazzling ceramic tiles in white color. Also, don’t forget to climb atop the church to enjoy the panoramic views of the Altea Bay. Alongside the church are fabulous cobbled streets lined with marvelous white washed houses. Another great attraction of Altea is the mountainous area of Sierra de Bernia, which is up to 1130m high. It is a paradise for nature lovers, climbers, and sightseers. Lying at the foot of the hill is the stupendous sea promenade as well as the much favored commercial street, namely the Avenida del Rey Jaime. Further, some of the best hotels and apartments of the place can be seen in this hilly area. Nearby is Cactuslandia - a haven for a variety of rare cactus and some exotic birds.

Also astounding in Altea are the beaches. The main beach of the area is Playa la Roda - a marvelous blend of golden sand and pebbles. To the south of the town is another great beach of the area, namely, Playa de Cap Blanch, stretching up to the resorts of Alfas del Pi, which in turn is another striking beach offering the breathtaking views of the bays of Altea and Calpe. Noteworthy beaches in Altea also include Playa de Cap Negret whose black pebbles make it unique, and L’Olla beach, which is situated adjacent to a small island. Apart from these beaches, you can find an amazing chain of shingled coves, such as La Baretta, La Galera, and La Solsida, at Mascarat Point, located at the northern end of the Altea Bay.

In addition, Altea boasts two sophisticated water sports center, such as, El Puerto Deportivo Luis Campomanes, alternatively named Greenwich Marina, and EL Club Nautico de Altea. Both of them offer opportunities to enjoy a host of activities including fishing, diving, windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, and boat cruises. The town’s must-visit highlights also cover the Luis Campomanes harbour, which has to its credit some of the best cruisers and yachts.

Above all, Altea houses a chain of bars, restaurants, street cafes, and night clubs, all of them hosting a range of cultural events as well as entertainment, apart from serving a mouthwatering array of cuisines and drinks.

Further, such attractions as the Moorish Mountain Fortress located at Guadalest and Penon de Ifach at Calpe are within close proximity to Altea.