Altea

Altea is widely considered the most beautiful town on the Costa Blanca — a hillside maze of whitewashed houses crowned by the iconic blue-tiled dome of the Mare de Déu del Consol church. An artists' enclave with a sophisticated, bohemian atmosphere, it draws visitors and residents who want authentic Spanish charm without the crowds of Benidorm just minutes away.

Settled since Iberian and Roman times, Altea was fortified in the 17th century against Berber pirates. The walled old town (Casco Antiguo) preserves its narrow cobbled streets, and the parish church with its glazed blue and white tiles has become the visual symbol of the entire Costa Blanca.

Slower, more refined and more cultured than its neighbours. Mornings begin at the seafront promenade, afternoons in artists' studios and boutiques, evenings on terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. Altea hosts the Universidad Miguel Hernández Faculty of Fine Arts, which gives the town a year-round creative pulse.

• 1.Wander the Casco Antiguo and Plaza de la Iglesia at sunset
• 2.Browse art galleries and the Palau Altea cultural centre
• 3.Hike the Sierra de Bernia for views over the bay
• 4.Sail or paddleboard along the coast toward Calpe
• 5.Visit the Tuesday market for local produce and crafts

Altea punches far above its weight gastronomically — home to Michelin-starred restaurants and dozens of quality terrazas serving fresh Mediterranean seafood, rice dishes and inventive tasting menus.

From boutique design hotels in restored old-town houses to 4 and 5-star seafront resorts. Excellent inventory of holiday villas and apartments.

Continue exploring the North Costa Blanca.