ALTEA
Altea is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful towns
in Spain, located on White Coast, in Alicante Province,
on the Costa Blanca region. Situated just 11 km away
from Benidorm and 62 km north of the El Altet International
Airport in Alicante, Altea is strategically situated
on the N332, which is easily accessible via the A7
motorway running between Valencia and Alicante. Sometimes
referred to as the artists’ capital of Costa
Blanca – the place is filled with such great
attractions as medieval cobbled streets, historic monuments,
shingled beaches, and art galleries. Discussed in detail
in this article are some of the significant attractions
of Altea.
One of the most distinctive highlights of Altea is
the Parish Church of the Virgin del Consuelo at the
Old Town Center, which is noted for its glorious blue
dome and dazzling ceramic tiles in white color. Also,
don’t forget to climb atop the church to enjoy
the panoramic views of the Altea Bay. Alongside the
church are fabulous cobbled streets lined with marvelous
white washed houses. Another great attraction of Altea
is the mountainous area of Sierra de Bernia, which
is up to 1130m high. It is a paradise for nature lovers,
climbers, and sightseers. Lying at the foot of the
hill is the stupendous sea promenade as well as the
much favored commercial street, namely the Avenida
del Rey Jaime. Further, some of the best hotels and
apartments of the place can be seen in this hilly area.
Nearby is Cactuslandia - a haven for a variety of rare
cactus and some exotic birds.
Also astounding in Altea are the beaches. The main
beach of the area is Playa la Roda - a marvelous blend
of golden sand and pebbles. To the south of the town
is another great beach of the area, namely, Playa de
Cap Blanch, stretching up to the resorts of Alfas del
Pi, which in turn is another striking beach offering
the breathtaking views of the bays of Altea and Calpe.
Noteworthy beaches in Altea also include Playa de Cap
Negret whose black pebbles make it unique, and L’Olla
beach, which is situated adjacent to a small island.
Apart from these beaches, you can find an amazing chain
of shingled coves, such as La Baretta, La Galera, and
La Solsida, at Mascarat Point, located at the northern
end of the Altea Bay.
In addition, Altea boasts two sophisticated water
sports center, such as, El Puerto Deportivo Luis Campomanes,
alternatively named Greenwich Marina, and EL Club Nautico
de Altea. Both of them offer opportunities to enjoy
a host of activities including fishing, diving, windsurfing,
water skiing, sailing, and boat cruises. The town’s
must-visit highlights also cover the Luis Campomanes
harbour, which has to its credit some of the best cruisers
and yachts.
Above all, Altea houses a chain of bars, restaurants,
street cafes, and night clubs, all of them hosting
a range of cultural events as well as entertainment,
apart from serving a mouthwatering array of cuisines
and drinks.
Further, such attractions as the Moorish Mountain
Fortress located at Guadalest and Penon de Ifach at
Calpe are within close proximity to Altea.
