Altea

Whitewashed houses, blue-tiled domes and sweeping Mediterranean views make Altea one of the Costa Blanca’s most picturesque destinations. Situated in Alicante province, this coastal town invites visitors to slow down, wander its hillside streets and enjoy life beside the sea. From its historic centre to its pebble beaches, Altea combines cultural discovery with the simple pleasures of a Mediterranean holiday.

Explore the Old Town

Altea’s old town is best discovered on foot. Narrow streets and stepped passageways wind between white façades, leading to small squares and unexpected views across the bay. Follow the streets uphill to the Plaza de la Iglesia, where the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo rises above the rooftops. Its distinctive blue-and-white tiled domes have become the town’s most recognisable landmark.

Nearby, the Mirador de los Cronistas de España offers a beautiful panorama of the coastline. Take time to pause here before exploring the surrounding streets or settling into a terrace café. Late afternoon is particularly inviting, when softer light falls over the white buildings and the town gradually takes on its evening atmosphere.

Beaches and Coastal Beauty

Altea’s coastline is characterised mainly by pebbles, shingle and rocky stretches, with inviting views of the Mediterranean. Water shoes are a useful addition to your beach bag.

La Roda: A convenient choice close to the town, with a seafront promenade lined with restaurants, cafés and shops. Combine a swim with lunch overlooking the water or a leisurely evening walk.
Cap Negret: An attractive beach with views towards the Sierra de Bèrnia, bringing together mountain scenery and the open sea.
L’Olla: A shoreline of pebbles, rock and patches of sand, with an offshore islet adding to its distinctive setting. It is a lovely place to appreciate Altea’s coastal landscape.
Mascarat: A striking pebble cove beneath the cliffs of the Sierra de Bèrnia, ideal for visitors drawn to dramatic coastal scenery.
Cap Blanc: At the southern end of Altea, this pebble beach borders the neighbouring municipality of L’Alfàs del Pi.

Things to Do in and Around Altea

The sea is central to a stay in Altea. Explore the coastline by kayak, enjoy snorkelling when conditions are suitable, or discover the sailing and other nautical activities available around its marinas. Seeing the town from the water offers a different perspective on its hillside skyline.

For a change of scenery, head towards the Sierra de Bèrnia, where mountain walks offer expansive views over the coast. The Forat de Bèrnia is a particularly memorable feature of the area’s hiking routes. The nearby Serra Gelada Natural Park provides further opportunities to discover the coastal landscape on foot; choose a route appropriate to your fitness and the weather.

Back in town, leave time for an unhurried meal, browsing local shops and walking along the waterfront. A rewarding day can be as simple as exploring the old town in the morning, enjoying lunch beside the sea and returning to the viewpoints as the evening light settles across the bay.

✨ One of Altea’s best-known celebrations is the Castell de l’Olla, traditionally held in August around the feast of San Lorenzo. Fireworks illuminate the sea, transforming the bay into the setting for a spectacular summer evening. Visitors planning a trip around the celebration should check the programme for their travel year.