Located on the coast it is sheltered by a backdrop of rugged mountains. The town hugs the mountainside and is extremely pretty, with narrow, winding streets, steeped in medieval character. This has attracted an array of craftsman and artisans who have no made Altea their home further adding to its identity of a cultural centre of the area.

The town is filled with photo opportunities with pretty plazas to relax in, beautiful white townhouses decorated with flowers, and a myriad of cobbled streets to explore. All these streets are magical and filled with craft shops, bars, restaurants and galleries and you will find something unexpected around every corner. It is easy to understand why so many bohemian characters have relocated here.

The town is steeped in history and the Church of the Virgin de Consuelo is a must visit. It’s blue dome stands out in the town and it is extremely impressive both inside and out. The Old Town Square here is a terrific place to relax with a number of bars and restaurants where you can sit back, take it easy and watch the world go by.

At the seafront Altea has a terrific promenade and several beaches, although the majority are pebbled rather than sand. All the popular water sports are available and behind the promenade is an array of bars and restaurants. It’s a really busy area and it also holds a large market where you can pick up local produce and bric a brac. Altea is a place for holidaymakers and day-trippers alike and is must on your Alicante itinerary.