Altea is the prettiest town on this stretch of the Costa Blanca with its stylish marina, lively seafront promenade and its beautiful old centre high above the glittering Mediterranean below. From here there are spectacular views towards El Peñon de Ifach in Calpe to the north and Benidorm’s skyscrapers to the south. Altea is only 12km from Benidorm and can be reached on the frequent Number 10 bus. If you’re driving just take the N332 towards Valencia then park down on the seafront and walk up to the old town or if you’re not keen on the climb you can drive to the top and park near the church.
Down at the seafront in Altea there’s no shortage of seafood restaurants serving mainly local rice based dishes such as paella and ‘arroz a la banda’. The Hotel San Miguel (c/Mar, 65) is a popular choice with a nice terrace overlooking the sea. The absence of British pubs is a pleasant change but if you prefer a bacon sandwich or the like head for Bar Alaska (c/San Pere, 34) on the front which serves up traditional British meals from a stylish café.
Playa de la Roda is the main beach in Altea. It’s quite narrow with pebbles which helps explain why Altea has avoided the worst of mass tourism. Views across towards Calpe and the Sierra Helada (a rocky outcrop separating Altea from Benidorm) are spectacular.
It’s not surprising that this picturesque village of Altea has long been a popular haunt for artists. Cross the main N332 Valencia road and take a wander through the winding, whitewashed streets as far as the Placa L’Esglesia right at the top. Here you’ll find the blue domed village church of Nuestra Senora del Consuelo which is well worth going inside to see.
On the way up the hill you’ll see the occasional small art gallery or craft shop depending on which route you take then the street heading down from the main square has all kinds of arty shops. In fact, if you’re in Altea during the summer months there’s an art market in the square every evening. If shopping isn’t on the agenda take a seat at Bar Plaza in this same square and enjoy some mellow blues or jazz music which befits this laid back location.
Recommended Hotels in Altea
Villa Gadea
Rating: 5-star
The beautiful Villa Gadea is located right on the beach about 2.5km from the centre of Altea. All itd suites and luxury doubles have balconies with sea views while the standard doubles have either sea or mountain views. The bedrooms are all spacious and the bathrooms have jacuzzis. There are 3 lagoon style pools, a gym, three paddle courts and a spa.
Altea Hills
Rating: 4-star
Located in a quiet area between Altea and Calpe all of the rooms in the Altea Hills have balconies with mountain or sea views. The hotel facilities live up to the expectations of its prestigious brand. You’ll need to hire a car or take a taxi when going out in Altea which is a few kilometres away.
Hotel Cap Negret
Rating: 3-star
The Hotel Cap Negret is located just a short walk from the town of Altea. It is separated from the beach by only the promenade and has its own beach bar. All of the rooms are a good size and have sea views, there is a large pool which is well kept and has plenty of sun beds around it. The hotel is easy to find just off of the Alicante to Valencia road.