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The respected Spanish novelist, Gabriel Miro, wrote that Altea was “ a village roasted by the sun”, a description that evokes in a very few words, all that is typical of the Mediterranean life style. Behind Altea lies the Sierra Bernia mountain range that protects and shelters this historic village from the cold winter winds allowing the sun to warm the ancient streets and narrow lanes of Altea Old Town.

The lovely blue and white glazed tile dome and slender bell tower of the village church stands near the top of the gentle slope that leads down through the old town to the modern buildings that line the Paseo Maritimo, or promenade, that runs alongside five kilometres of pebbled beaches.

Altea has been a haven for painters, writers, sculptors and singers and became known throughout Europe in the sixties and seventies for the Bohemian lifestyle enjoyed by its residents, both old and new.This artistic tradition has been carried on to this day with a full program of cultural and festive events that has given Altea the reputation of being the cultural centre of the Valencian Community.

In and around Altea has much to offer both tourists who make it their base, and day visitors.

A leisurely walk through the village is the best way to get immersed in its persuasive atmosphere. Stop off on your stroll to marvel at the Vergen del Consuelo Church that overlooks the bay of Altea, visit the museums and the Campus of the University of Arts and admire the streets decorated with tubs of geraniums and jasmine.

As you soak up the atmosphere take care not to trip or fall when you come across steps on the cobbled lanes. Find the time to enjoy a drink, a tapas or even a full blown lunch or dinner at whichever of the many hostelries you pass that takes your fancy. Altea is known for its typical cuisine, so whether you are fine dining or snacking, try a local delicacy.

As you pass down the slope towards the sea you eventually have to cross over the busy N332 roadway that winds its way all along the coast of the Costa Blanca. On this road and just behind there are many shops, some stylish and high fashion, others more down to earth, shopaholics will be surprised at the individuality of the retailers, no chain stores or multiple outlets here! Between the N332 and the sea lies the Paseo Maritimo.

On one side lie the beaches, some pebbly, others sandy and the marinas where fine yachts and simple fishing boats share the moorings. On the inland side there is an enormous variety of restaurants and bars featuring cuisine from Spain, Germany, Britain, China and other countries. Sports are not forgotten in Altea where the sea offers the opportunity to indulge in many forms of water sports.

The Nautical Club of Altea organises one of the most prestigious competitions on the Mediterranean, the ‘200 miles in two’ race from Altea to the island of Ibiza and back. The nearby Don Cayo Golf Club not only has a challenging 9-hole course but is also equipped with tennis courts, swimming pool and a social club.

The countryside around Altea is typical of the Costa Blanca with groves of orange, lemon, olive and almond trees sheltered by the backdrop of the Sierra Bernia.There always seems to be colour in the countryside, whether it is the spectacular show of pink or white almond blossom in the spring or simply nature’s abundant wild flowers in bloom. A day out in the surrounding countryside should not be missed. If you are not keen on walking, bicycles can be hired or go trekking on horseback arranged by the local horse-riding centre.

Your day out is likely to take you past one or more of the five picturesque small chapels dotted around the country lanes. Every Tuesday morning sees the local market where local produce and handicrafts mix with a plethora of goods from all corners of the globe vying for business from locals and tourists alike while on summer evenings the stalls are set out for a handicraft market on the plaza in the old town centre.

There is frequent public transport to nearby Calpe and to Benidorm about 10 kms away, while the drive to Alicante Airport takes less than an hour.