Discovering Altea: A Guide to the Best Kept Secrets on the Costa Blanca
Altea is a charming town located in the region of Alicante on the Costa Blanca in Spain. It is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain and is a popular tourist destination. Altea is located just 11 kilometers north of Benidorm, but it is a world apart from the bustling resort town. The town is divided into two neighborhoods, the old and the new, and both have their unique charm.
Altea is known for its picturesque old town with narrow streets, white houses, and flower-filled balconies. The old town is perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and it is home to many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several landmarks, including the Church of Our Lady of Consolation, the Bellaguarda Tower, and the Palau Altea Cultural Center.
Altea is a great destination for those looking for a relaxed and authentic Spanish experience. The town has a laid-back vibe, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore the old town, and indulge in the local cuisine. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Altea has something for everyone.
Getting to Altea
Altea is a beautiful town located in the region of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. There are several ways to get to Altea, including by air, train, bus, and car.
By Air
The nearest airport to Altea is Alicante-Elche Airport, which is approximately 60 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or a taxi to Altea. The bus journey takes around 1 hour and costs approximately 10 euros. Taxis are also available and cost around 100 euros.
By Train
The nearest train station to Altea is the Altea Station, which is located in the town center. Trains run regularly from Alicante and Valencia, as well as from other major cities in Spain. Visitors can also take a high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid to Alicante and then transfer to a local train to Altea.
By Bus
There are several bus companies that operate services to Altea from major cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. The journey time varies depending on the departure point, but it usually takes around 4-5 hours from Madrid and 2-3 hours from Valencia. Visitors can also take a bus from Alicante-Elche Airport to Altea.
By Car
Visitors can drive to Altea on the national road N-332 or by the AP-7 highway, taking exit 64. There are several car rental companies available at Alicante-Elche Airport.
Accommodation
Hotels
Altea offers a variety of hotels for travelers to choose from. One of the most popular options is the SH Villa Gadea, a luxurious 5-star hotel located on the beachfront. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, multiple swimming pools, and a spa.
For those on a budget, Hotel La Serena is a great option. It is located in the heart of Altea’s Old Town and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
Vacation Rentals
For those looking for more privacy and flexibility, vacation rentals are a great option. Airbnb and Vrbo offer a variety of apartments, villas, and houses in Altea. These rentals provide travelers with the opportunity to live like a local and experience the culture of the town.
One of the most popular vacation rentals in Altea is the Casa del Mar. It is a beautiful villa located on a hillside with stunning views of the sea. It offers a private pool, multiple terraces, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Hostels
Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers who are looking to meet new people. Altea has a few hostels to choose from, including the Hostal Fornet and the Youth Hostel Albergue Juvenil.
The Hostal Fornet is located in the heart of Altea’s Old Town and offers private rooms as well as dormitory-style rooms. The Youth Hostel Albergue Juvenil is located on the outskirts of Altea and offers affordable accommodation for backpackers and young travelers.
Things to Do
Altea offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for beaches, historical sites, museums, or outdoor activities, Altea has something for everyone.
Beaches
Altea has several beaches to choose from, each offering its own unique experience. The main beach, Playa de la Roda, is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. For a quieter beach experience, head to Playa de Cap Blanc, located just outside of town. This secluded beach is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
Historical Sites
Altea is steeped in history, and there are several historical sites to explore. The Old Town is a must-visit, with its narrow streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the sea. The Nuestra Señora del Consuelo Church is another popular attraction, with its iconic blue and white tiled dome.
Museums
For those interested in art and culture, Altea has several museums worth visiting. The Casa Museo Palau de Altea is a beautifully restored 17th-century palace that now houses a contemporary art museum. The Museo de la Olla de Altea is another interesting museum, showcasing traditional pottery from the region.
Outdoor Activities
Altea’s natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sierra Helada Natural Park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline. For a more adventurous experience, try rock climbing or canyoning. Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities in Altea.
Food and Drink
Altea offers a range of culinary options to suit all tastes and budgets. From traditional Spanish tapas to international cuisine, visitors are sure to find something to satisfy their appetite.
Restaurants
There are numerous restaurants in Altea, ranging from small family-owned establishments to high-end dining experiences. Seafood is a popular choice, with many restaurants offering the catch of the day. One highly recommended restaurant is Restaurante El Castell, which offers stunning views of the sea and mountains. For those who prefer meat, La Costera is a great choice, serving up delicious grilled meats and seafood.
Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options in Altea. Veggie Garden is a popular restaurant that offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including burgers, salads, and wraps. Another great option is La Picaeta, which serves up traditional Spanish tapas with a vegetarian twist.
Bars
There are plenty of bars in Altea where visitors can enjoy a drink and soak up the Spanish atmosphere. For a relaxed evening, head to Bar El Pirata, which offers a range of cocktails and live music. For something a little more lively, Bar Mediterraneo is a great choice, with a large selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.
Nightlife
While Altea is not known for its nightlife, there are still some options for those who want to dance the night away. KU Lounge Bar is a popular spot, offering a beachfront location and a range of DJs and live music. For a more laid-back evening, head to Bar 54, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a range of cocktails.
Shopping
Altea is home to many unique shops and markets that offer a variety of products. The town’s bohemian and magical character makes shopping here an unforgettable experience.
For those looking for souvenirs and gifts, Altea’s markets offer a great selection of stands. The Altea Market 90 Flea & Street Markets is a must-visit. It is located in the town center and can be reached by taking the No 10 bus from Benidorm to Altea. Here, visitors can browse around the market and find a great selection of stands.
Creative types will appreciate the CREAPOP Outlet & Atelier, which offers a variety of arts and crafts supplies. La Tana Art Galleries is another great option for art lovers. They offer a wide range of art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
If you’re looking for something special, La Trova Ultramarinos is a great place to start. This shop offers a selection of unique gifts and souvenirs, including handmade pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
For those who enjoy shopping for clothing, Altea has several boutiques that offer unique and stylish pieces. Some of the popular options include La Boheme and La Femme.
Overall, Altea offers a great shopping experience for visitors looking for unique and authentic products. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, art pieces, or clothing, Altea has something to offer for everyone.
Conclusion
Altea is a charming and picturesque town located on the coast of Costa Blanca in the Alicante region of Spain. With its old, picturesque side perched on the top of a hill and a relatively new neighborhood that has the feel of a cosmopolitan city, Altea has something for everyone.
Visitors to Altea can explore the ancient cobbled streets of the old town, admire the promenades lined with palm trees, and take in the stunning views of the sea from the top of the hill. The town is also home to several cultural and artistic events throughout the year, such as the annual Altea International Film Festival and the Altea Art Fair.
For those looking for a more active vacation, Altea offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports. The nearby Sierra de Bernia Natural Park is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, while the beaches and coves of Altea are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Overall, Altea is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Costa Blanca region of Spain. With its charming old town, cosmopolitan new neighborhood, stunning views of the sea, and range of outdoor activities, Altea has something for everyone.
FAQ´s
What is Altea known for?
Altea is known for its picturesque old town, white-washed houses, narrow streets, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is also known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
How do I get to Altea?
The closest airport to Altea is Alicante Airport, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach Altea. Alternatively, you can take a train from Alicante to Altea.
What is the best time to visit Altea?
The best time to visit Altea is during the months of May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful trip, you can visit during the off-season months of October to April.
What are the best beaches in Altea?
The best beaches in Altea are La Roda Beach, Cap Negret Beach, and Mascarat Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
What are the top attractions in Altea?
The top attractions in Altea include the Old Town, the Church of Our Lady of Consuelo, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Algar Waterfalls, and the Sierra de Bernia mountain range.
What are the best restaurants in Altea?
Some of the best restaurants in Altea include Restaurante Oustau, Restaurante El Castell, Restaurante La Costera, and Restaurante La Bruschetta. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Spanish, Mediterranean, and Italian.
What is the nightlife like in Altea?
The nightlife in Altea is vibrant and diverse, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular nightlife spots include Bar 21, La Mascarada, and Café del Mar.
What is the cost of living in Altea?
The cost of living in Altea is relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Spain. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is reasonable, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.
What is the local currency in Altea?
The local currency in Altea is the Euro (EUR). Most places accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to bring some cash with you for smaller purchases or if you plan to visit more remote areas.
What are some popular day trips from Altea?
There are several popular day trips you can take from Altea, including a visit to the nearby town of Calpe, a boat trip to the island of Tabarca, a hike in the Sierra de Bernia mountain range, or a visit to the historic city of Valencia, which is approximately 130 kilometers away.
