Altea is one of the most attractive resorts on the Costa Blanca, Spain. This quiet town, which has also managed to keep its Spanish charm, which is the opposite to its close neighbour of Benidorm. During the sixties, Altea was a favoured destination among musicians, artists and writers. Even now, this resort at the estuary of the River Algar still retains a relaxed atmosphere.

The Altea old quarter still has quite narrow and cobbled roads that lead on to the Nuestra Senora del Consuelo church. Constructed in the 20th century, it is noted for the very distinctive blue & white dome. Inside it are fine murals and also beautiful stained windows. In the high season, an art market is held there each evening. The old sector is also home to many craft type shops, pavement cafes and nice restaurants.

Altea has over 3 miles (nearly 5 km) of coast, although most of the beaches tend to consist of shingle rather than fine sand. However, this means the town has not been redeveloped like many other resorts on the spanish Costa Blanca. The main Altea beach, the Playa de la Roda, is located near to the old quarter, where there are fantastic views to the Penon de Ifach rock at nearby Calpe. Other beaches include the Playa de Cap Blanch further south, and Playa de Cap Negret with unusual black pebbles.

Altea is not known for its wild nightlife, although there are lots of bars that remain open till late, especially in the peak season. If you are searching for something more livey, there are train and bus services to closeby Benidorm. The Palau de las Artes often has cultural and artistic events, such as concerts or flamenco displays. Enquire at the tourism office in the Carrer Sant Pere for the full programme. There are a few fine restaurants along the front, many of which serve a local speciality, Arroz a la Banda, consisting of fresh squid, with rice, onions plus garlic.

Altea fiestas are held throughout the calendar, with the main highlight being the colourful Christians and Moors fiesta in September. Other important festivals include, Fiesta de San Lorenzo in August, which has a spectacular firework finale on the front. The Fiesta of San Antonio at Cap Blanch held in June, and the Fiesta of Santa Ana the following months are popular as well.

There are two Altea marinas, the Port d Altea, located close to the town, plus the Port Esportiu Luis de Campomanes a couple of miles further north. Both have a good selection of water sports, like sub aqua, sailing or windsurfing. A short drive inland there is a short golf course, the Club de Golf Don Cayo, which includes a driving range.

Altea is located just over 40 miles (or nearly 64 km) from Alicante and nearly 7 miles from Benidorm. There are regular train and bus services from Altea to either of these.

For tourist advice and travel information about Altea in Spain, please visit Altea