Altea
 

Altea is without doubt one of the most charming towns on Spain’s ‘white coast’. For it is a haven of Mediterranean beauty with its medieval cobbled streets, its picture book old quarter, its palm-fringed seafront esplanade and its small, beautiful coves and, pebble and shingle beaches that extend north and southwards along the coast.

Once a quiet fishing village, Altea’s terraced streets are flanked by whitewashed facades in true Mediterranean style. It is easy to understand why Altea became a bohemian centre for musicians, artists and writers from all over Europe when they first discovered its delights back in the early 1960s. The town is now geared to the demands of the modern day tourist but still retains a bohemian air.

Altea has expanded a great deal in the past 20 years stretching its boundaries outwards and upwards. Views from the heights of nearby Altea Hills are breathtaking. And Altea's well-known blue and white tiled dome of its church in the old quarter plaza can be seen rising high above the village from most vantage points around the town.

Altea boasts a fascinating array of tiny shops offering exquisite local crafts, paintings and gifts. There are excellent restaurants where you can enjoy local seafood and Valencian rice dishes as well as an international cuisine.

The impressive new arts centre and concert hall - the Palau Altea Centre d'Arts - provides entertainment and cultural activities for residents and holidaymakers.