Altea, located between Calpe and Albir, is one of the most characterful towns on the northern Costa Blanca. Known for its whitewashed old town, lively cultural life and relaxed atmosphere, the town has developed over the decades into a popular place to live and work for international residents - including many German speakers. Anyone who knows Altea knows that life here is not a postcard cliché, but a real, everyday Mediterranean experience.
Altea was originally a fortified settlement of Moorish origin, which developed into a fishing village from the 18th century onwards and later became a cultural centre. From the 1960s onwards, the picturesque old town attracted artists and intellectuals from all over Europe. The municipality made a conscious decision against mass tourism and high-rise developments. Instead, the architectural heritage was protected and Altea developed into the artistic flagship of the region, strengthened by the campus of the Miguel Hernández University.
The old town of Altea rises like a terrace above the coast. The centrepiece is the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo with its blue and white domes - one of the most famous photo motifs in the region. All around: winding alleyways, small squares, galleries, arts and crafts and cafés with views of the sea or the mountains. Especially in the evening, Altea shows its quiet, atmospheric side - without the hustle and bustle, but with plenty of character.
Altea offers several stretches of beach along a varied coastline. Instead of large sandy beaches, pebble and natural beaches dominate, which are characterised by their tranquillity and cleanliness. Many are lined with palm trees, easily accessible and ideal for swimmers, walkers and anyone who appreciates a well-kept, uncrowded environment.
The most important beaches at a glance:
Playa de la Roda - Directly on the city promenade, with cafés and restaurants within walking distance
Cap Negret - dark natural pebble beach north of the centre, quiet and authentic
Playa de l'Olla - Family-friendly, wide view of the sea, especially beautiful at sunset
La Solsida - Secluded, unspoilt and popular with individualists (also nudist beach area)
Playa Mascarat - Located at Greenwich Marina, with crystal-clear water - ideal for snorkelling and kayaking
Most beaches offer a clear view of the mountains, shady areas and plenty of space - even in high season.
The Weekly market takes place every Tuesday morning above the Avenida La Nucia. Fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, household goods, clothing and handicrafts are on sale. The market is firmly anchored in community life and is also a weekly fixture for residents.
Altea has been a place for creatives for decades. The city is home to the campus of the Miguel Hernández University, which specialises in fine arts, as well as numerous private studios and galleries. The cultural offering is wide-ranging, but not artificial - much of it is the result of local initiative.
The most important events include
These festivals unite locals and international residents - not as a tourist event, but as a living everyday culture.
Altea is nestled in a diverse landscape between the sea and the mountains. The Sierra de Bèrnia in the hinterland offers hiking trails with spectacular views, while the coastal promenade offers walks as far as Albir or the yacht and sports harbour Marina Greenwich. Cyclists and water sports enthusiasts will also find ideal conditions around Altea.
Altea has a well-developed infrastructure with medical care, supermarkets, restaurants, service providers and schools - some of which are internationally orientated. The city is not overcrowded, but lively. The property market offers a mix of flats near the centre, townhouses in the old town and villas in the green outskirts.
The proximity to Benidorm, Albir and Calpe, but also to Alicante and the airport, also makes Altea logistically attractive for residents who want to live here permanently or temporarily.
📌 Contact & information
Altea Tourist Office
📍 Carrer Sant Pere, 14 - 03590 Altea (Alicante)
📞 +34 965 84 41 14
✉️ altea@touristinfo.net
🌐 www.visitaltea.es
