Altea, Spain: Your Ultimate Guide to the Old Town & Beaches
Nestled on the stunning Costa Blanca, Altea is a hidden gem that captures the hearts of visitors with its enchanting old town and beautiful beaches. This picturesque Spanish destination offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal charm, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience. With its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking sea views, Altea stands out as a must-visit location for travelers looking to explore beyond the typical tourist haunts.
As you dive into this guide, you'll discover the magic of Altea's old town, where art galleries and local craft shops line winding alleys. You'll learn about the best beaches to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. We'll also share top things to do, from exploring historic sites to savoring local flavors in charming restaurants. Whether you're planning a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to Altea, ensuring you experience all the wonders this coastal paradise has to offer.
Exploring Altea's Charming Old Town
As you wander through Altea's old town, you'll find yourself transported to a world of timeless beauty and Mediterranean charm. The narrow cobblestone streets wind their way up the hill, revealing picturesque corners and breathtaking views at every turn. This area is the heart and soul of Altea, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning vistas.
Nuestra Señora del Consuelo Church
At the highest point of Altea stands the iconic Nuestra Señora del Consuelo Church, a true masterpiece of Mediterranean architecture. Its distinctive blue and white tiled domes have become a symbol of the town, visible from miles around. Built between 1900 and 1910, this neobaroque church is a must-see attraction that dominates the skyline.
Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a bright, luminous interior adorned with classical and floral motifs in gold. The contrast between the white walls and the gleaming golden details creates a dazzling effect that leaves visitors in awe. The church's location also offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for both worshippers and tourists alike.
The Narrow Cobblestone Streets of Altea
As you descend from the church, you'll find yourself immersed in a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets. These charming alleys are lined with whitewashed buildings, their facades adorned with colorful flowers and intricate balconies. The architecture here reflects centuries of cultural influences, including Moorish elements that add to the town's unique character.
These streets are more than just pretty pathways; they're living history books. Each corner tells a story of Altea's rich past, from its Moorish heritage to its current status as a haven for artists and musicians. As you explore, you'll come across hidden courtyards, art galleries, and craft shops that showcase the town's vibrant creative scene.
Plaza de la Iglesia
The heart of Altea's old town is undoubtedly the Plaza de la Iglesia, or Church Square. This bustling hub is surrounded by charming white houses, artisan shops, and inviting bars and restaurants. It's the perfect place to pause and soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting town.
The square comes alive in the evenings, transforming into one of the main social spots in Altea. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many restaurants, savoring local flavors while taking in the lively ambiance. As night falls, the square becomes even more magical, with its warm lighting and the gentle hum of conversation creating a truly memorable experience.
From the square, you can access various viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of Altea's coastline and the vast Mediterranean beyond. These lookouts are ideal spots for capturing unforgettable photos, especially during sunrise or sunset when the sky paints a spectacular canvas over the sea.
Best Beaches in Altea
Altea's coastline stretches for about 7 kilometers, offering a diverse range of beautiful beaches that cater to various preferences. From bustling urban shores to secluded coves, you'll find the perfect spot to soak up the Mediterranean sun. Here are some of the top beaches you should explore during your visit to Altea.
Playa la Roda
Playa la Roda is the main beach of Altea and one of the most popular spots in the city. Located beneath the historic old town and starting right next to the port area, this 500-meter-long beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles. The beach slopes quickly into the sea, making it ideal for those who enjoy swimming in deeper waters.
During the peak season, you can rent sunbeds and parasols to enhance your comfort. A beautiful palm-lined promenade runs along the beach, dotted with fantastic restaurants, cozy cafés, and tapas bars where you can savor local flavors. The promenade also provides stunning views of the coastline, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Platja de l'Espigó
Platja de l'Espigó is another gem in Altea's collection of beaches. Located at the mouth of the Algar River, this beach boasts clean and calm waters, making it ideal for a relaxing swim. It's worth noting that Platja de l'Espigó has been awarded the Blue Flag, a symbol of top water quality.
The beach is primarily composed of gravel and pebbles, which might not be ideal for those seeking soft sand but contributes to the crystal-clear quality of the water. Its urban location means you'll have easy access to various amenities, including restaurants, shops, and infrastructure. The promenade along Platja de l'Espigó is lined with eateries where you can enjoy Altea's gastronomy, from paellas and fresh fish to varied tapas.
Mascarat Bay
For those seeking a more secluded and natural beach experience, Mascarat Bay is a must-visit. Located about 6 kilometers north of Altea town, this beautiful bay offers a stunning natural landscape that will take your breath away.
The beach at Mascarat Bay features fine pebbles and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Sierra de Bernia mountain range reaches the sea abruptly here, creating a dramatic backdrop with a large vertical wall of limestone rock jutting into the sea. This unique geological feature makes Mascarat Bay one of the wildest and most beautiful corners of Altea.
Top Things to Do in Altea
Altea offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests. From exploring its charming marina to hiking in nearby natural parks, there's something for everyone in this picturesque coastal town.
Visit Marina Greenwich
Just 3 kilometers from Altea's town center, you'll find Marina Greenwich, a contemporary port with a strong character and great dynamism. This spectacular enclave is situated on the meridian 000º 00' 00", making it the only marina in the world at this precise location. The marina boasts 542 berths for boats ranging from 7 to 40 meters in length, along with a dry dock offering a wide range of services for your vessel.
Marina Greenwich is more than just a place to dock your boat. It features a commercial area with restaurants, pubs, shops, and a mini-market, as well as various nautical activities. The marina's blue flag status, awarded annually for its clean waters, adds to its appeal. Whether you're a boat enthusiast or simply enjoy people-watching, Marina Greenwich is worth a visit. You can stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy a meal at one of the cafes, or simply relax and take in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding mountains.
Hike in Sierra Helada Natural Park
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Sierra Helada Natural Park offers an unparalleled experience. This mountain range, which separates Albir from Benidorm, is part of a larger, highly protected nature reserve - the first maritime land park in the Valencian Community. The park covers more than 5,600 hectares and is renowned for its hanging fossil dunes, caves, and old ochre mines.
The Sierra Helada mountain range provides Altea with a protective embrace and a special microclimate. As you explore the park, you'll encounter a wide range of fauna and flora, turquoise blue waters contrasting with natural stone, and numerous pine trees offering shade. The park offers various hiking routes catering to different fitness levels. One popular trail leads to the Albir lighthouse, a relatively easy 4.5 km round trip that takes about an hour.
Explore the Orthodox Church of Altea
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Michael the Archangel. Located in the hills of Altea, this church is slightly hidden behind trees and off the main road, making it a hidden gem that many visitors miss. What makes this church special is that it was the first Orthodox church of its kind to be built in Spain.
The church's structure, iconography, and gold work typify a 17th-century Russian Orthodox church. Its wooden exterior and striking domes create a stark contrast to the typical Spanish architecture, making it a fascinating sight. Inside, you'll find an impressive interior adorned with gold and numerous icons. The church is open to visitors, and you don't need to pay an entrance fee. Remember to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders if necessary. Scarves are available at the entrance for women who need to cover their shoulders.
Where to Stay in Altea
When it comes to finding the perfect accommodation in Altea, you have a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. From charming old town lodgings to beachfront hotels and luxurious villas, Altea offers something for every traveler.
Old Town Accommodations
For those seeking an authentic experience, staying in Altea's old town is an excellent choice. The narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings create a picturesque setting for your stay. Hotel Abaco, located in the heart of the old town, offers a charming boutique experience. Housed in a former 18th-century bakery, this B&B combines classic charm with modern comforts. The owner's artwork adds a personal touch, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Another option in the old town is Casa Eline de Lujo, which offers a luxurious stay with a private pool and garden. This accommodation is conveniently located close to Playa de L' Espigó and La Roda Beach, allowing you to easily explore both the historic center and the coastline.
Beachfront Hotels
If you're looking to wake up to the sound of waves, Altea's beachfront hotels are perfect for you. Hotel Cap Negret is a popular choice, featuring private access to Cap Negret de Altea pebble beach. All rooms come with a terrace offering sea views, and the hotel boasts outdoor swimming pools with water jets.
For a more upscale experience, consider SH Villa Gadea Hotel. Located just outside Altea, this stylish hotel offers stunning sea views and lagoon-style pools. With four restaurants, a fitness center, and an extensive spa featuring an ice cave and hot tubs, it's an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and luxury.
Luxury Villas in Altea Hills
For the ultimate indulgence, consider staying in one of the luxury villas in Altea Hills. This elite urbanization offers breathtaking views of both mountains and sea, covering a total surface area of 34.43 km2. The villas in this area cater to all tastes, featuring stylish designs both inside and out.
Altea Hills provides a private haven away from the hustle and bustle, allowing for utmost relaxation. The area boasts top-notch security, with 24/7 surveillance and professional personnel monitoring the premises. You'll also find luxury attractions such as the Altea Hills Tennis Club and Golf Club nearby.
When choosing your accommodation in Altea, consider your priorities – whether it's immersing yourself in the old town's charm, enjoying beachfront views, or indulging in luxury. No matter where you stay, you'll be well-positioned to explore all that this beautiful coastal town has to offer.
Conclusion
Altea's blend of historic charm and coastal beauty has a powerful influence on visitors, offering a unique Mediterranean experience. From the winding streets of the old town to the serene beaches along the Costa Blanca, this Spanish gem provides countless opportunities to explore, relax, and soak in the local culture. The town's rich history, vibrant art scene, and stunning natural landscapes come together to create an unforgettable destination.
Whether you're looking to unwind on pristine beaches, delve into local history, or embark on outdoor adventures, Altea has something for everyone. Its diverse range of accommodations, from charming old town B&Bs to luxurious beachfront resorts, ensures a comfortable stay tailored to your preferences. As you plan your visit to this coastal paradise, keep in mind that Altea's magic lies not just in its attractions, but in the warm hospitality and laid-back lifestyle that make it a true Spanish treasure.
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