The following article is taken from Eye on Spain, www.eyeonspain.com

Why You Should Visit Altea on Your Next Trip to Spain

AlteaAltea, Spain is located in the province of Alicante. The regions stretch of beach is part of the legendary Costa Blanca on the Mediterranean Sea. The most striking thing about this village located just 15 kilometers, or almost 10 miles north of the massively popular tourist party haven of Benidorm, is the peaceful vibe that permeates throughout the region. Most of the buildings have maintained the quaint old world style of the past, in stark contrast to the sky scraping hotels so popular along the Costa Blanca.

Both summer and winter seasons in Altea are very pleasant, thanks to the warm Mediterranean air that is kept in the area by the Serra Bernia mountains that also keep out the northern winds. The view, as well as the real estate market in this area is very good. The close proximity to the Alicante Airport makes it very convenient for tourists from all over Europe, especially Great Britain and Germany and there are many new apartments and hotels available in this area, but so far the tranquil relaxed air has been maintained.

Altea provides many unique attractions in the area. The church Nuestra Senora Del Consuelo is rather famous for its hand painted blue mosaic tiles that adorn its dome and was built in 1910. It is considered a lovely example of Mediterranean style and has a very ornate interior. The neighborhood that surrounds the church is very beautifully landscaped. Many of the both year round and part time citizens of this area are Spanish and foreign artists, writers and other celebrities.

Altea streetThe shopping area is very quaint and quite adorable. The hours of operation for local shops are typically between 10 in the morning and 9 at night, with a break from 2 til 4 or 5 in the afternoon. The best way to navigate the streets of Altea is on foot. There are not many places where a large tour bus would ever be able to pass, and the mountain walking tours are quite beautiful. There are companies that specialize in private and guided tours that can be part of an all-inclusive holiday package that you can specially request in Altea, Spain.

There is a fabulous bohemian style market in the square in Altea. The local merchants and craftspeople sell their items here from Easter until September during the year. Golf is another very popular and practical sport to enjoy in Altea, due to the year round beautiful weather. The Altea Golf Club is a popular destination for many golf enthusiasts.

For nightlife or faster paced living, take a quick trip to Benidorm. The bars and parties are all just a few miles away, and you can be back in peaceful Altea after a great night out for a very inexpensive taxi ride.

 


Comments:

CommentDateUser
Nice article. It's not often that Altea gets a mention. We own a lovely apartment just outside Altea on the lower slopes of the Altea Hills. We have fabulous views of the beautiful Sierra de Bernia mountain range behind us and distant panoramic views across the northern Costa Blanca and the Med to the front which are simply the best. Altea is a living working town and has to be the most attractive area on the Costa Blanca. It has retained it's Spanish charm and it doesn't close in the winter either. Visit our community web site at: www.alteanatura.net for more info. Robert3/23/2010 1:19:00 PMRobert
I agree with Robert, we have owned a small house at Altea Hills for 8 years, we have similar views and never tire of going there. I selected the area after spending a week driving down and then back up the whole coast from Valencia to La Manga and concluded that Altea has it all !(but don't tell everyone !). Sea,beaches and all watersports, mountains and inland activities walking , golf, town carefully developed (no high rise)and managed with pride, closeness (but distance as well) to Benidorm and all facilities, also close to Calpe. Very friendly and welcoming locals and a good international blend of expats (Brits are not in the majority), good airport links to ALC and VLC, two 5 star hotels etc etc. I could go on.. Its a great place, and one of the top resorts on the Costa Blanca.3/24/2010 1:03:00 AMMartin
are there any walking /hiking guides available in English? slos hablo un poco de espanola!!!!!!!3/27/2010 11:33:00 PMdes