Altea
Costa at its best.
Brief description
Altea is one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Blanca, known for its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, art galleries and the iconic dome of the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. This picturesque town attracts artists, bon vivants and international residents. Altea combines traditional Spanish atmosphere with a cosmopolitan feel and offers a relaxed lifestyle right by the sea.
01 Location and accessibility
• Located between Calpe and Benidorm • Only 45 minutes' drive from Alicante airport (approx. 70 km) • Easily accessible via the N-332 and AP-7 (exit Altea or Altea la Vella) • Train connection via the TRAM (Alicante – Denia line)
02 Beaches
• Playa de la Roda: main beach with promenade, right next to the centre • Cap Negret, La Olla and Mascarat: pebble beaches with clear water, more peaceful location • Small beaches perfect for snorkelling and kayaking • Marina and beach clubs at Marina Greenwich (Mascarat)
03 Education
• Spanish primary and secondary schools in Altea and Altea la Vella • International schools in the region, including: -Sierra Bernia School in Alfaz del Pi -AIS (Altea International School) with creative and English-language teaching -Elian's British School (near Benidorm) and Vallemar International School in La Nucia • Childcare and after-school activities available
04 Food
• Wide range of Mediterranean and international restaurants • Cosy terraces in the old town with sea views • Seafood restaurants in the harbour and refined cuisine on the coast • Various beach bars on the beaches serving tapas and paella • Michelin-starred restaurant: Oustau de Altea (recommended in guides, fine dining in the old town) • Cafés, wine bars and tapas spots for every moment of the day
05 Local culture and events
• Art city with many studios, galleries and music festivals • Annual Moros y Cristianos, Semana Santa and local fiestas • Summer concerts and cultural evenings in the church square • Famous Castell de l'Olla fireworks display in August • Active international community and cultural centres
06 Shops and markets
• Charming shops, boutiques and art galleries in the old town • Saturday market in Altea and weekly farmers' market in Altea la Vella • Supermarkets such as Mercadona, Masymas, Lidl and Consum • Organic shops, bakeries and delicatessens • Banks, pharmacies and basic amenities available
07 Leisure and activities
• Hiking or cycling in the nearby Sierra de Bernia mountains • Water sports in Marina Greenwich: sailing, diving, jet skiing, paddle surfing • Nearby golf courses (Don Cayo – Altea Club de Golf) • Tennis clubs, yoga, wellness and Pilates • Proximity to nature parks, viewpoints and day trips to Calpe, Guadalest, Fonts de l'Algar • TRAM connection allows for day trips without a car
08 Real estate
• Wide variety of properties: seaside apartments, luxury villas, townhouses in the old town • Popular residential areas: Altea Hills, Mascarat, Altea la Vella, Sierra de Altea • New construction projects with sea views and high-quality finishes • Interesting for permanent residence, investment or second home • Stable market with high demand from international buyers