Altea: Artistic Streets and the Sea
Altea is one of the most unusual towns on the Costa Blanca, distinguished by its creative atmosphere, snow-white architecture, and relaxed Mediterranean pace. The town is located on a hillside, offering views of the sea, surrounding mountains, and coastline from almost every point. There is no noisy tourist bustle typical of popular resorts in the region-instead, Altea offers intimacy, aesthetics, and an artistic ambiance. The town has long been known as a home for artists, craftsmen, and designers, which is reflected in its layout: narrow streets turned into workshops, squares into stages for musical performances, and cafés into hubs for creative gatherings.
Altea’s unique architectural style has evolved over centuries. White walls reflect sunlight, creating an airy feeling and keeping interiors cool. Stone staircases, remnants of Moorish architecture, arches, and balconies with wrought-iron railings create continuous visual diversity, highly appreciated by photographers and artists. Travelers feel as if they have entered a town where time moves slower and every detail seems made to be admired.
Altea Old Town: A Labyrinth of Art
Google Maps: View on map Casco Antiguo Altea
Casco Antiguo, Altea’s historic center, is considered one of the most beautiful and atmospheric places on the Costa Blanca. It is a true labyrinth of narrow streets, paved pathways, and white facades reflecting sunlight. The Old Town is perched on a hill, allowing tourists to enjoy panoramic views at almost every turn.
Walking up the streets, every detail shows care: painted ceramic street signs, carved wooden doors, small arches between houses, terracotta flower pots hanging from windowsills. All these elements together create the atmosphere of an old Spanish settlement that has preserved its authenticity despite its tourist popularity.
The Old Town has become a cultural symbol thanks to artists who settled here in the 20th century. Their presence influenced the development of the city’s infrastructure: artisan shops, art studios, designer jewelry and ceramics stores appeared. Many houses still host workshops where visitors can see handmade creations being made.
The Old Town’s evening atmosphere is especially enchanting. As the sun sets, white walls take on golden and pink hues. Street musicians play relaxed melodies, artists display their paintings on the streets, and small cafés fill with people enjoying the coolness and tranquility.
Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo
Google Maps: View on map Iglesia del Consuelo
The main symbol of the town’s skyline is the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, also known as the “church with blue domes.” Its cobalt-blue domes are adorned with white geometric patterns, making it one of the most recognizable religious buildings on the coast. Its architecture combines neoclassical and modernist elements, creating a visually striking ensemble.
Built on top of the hill in the early 20th century on the site of an older church, it preserved some original elements. Today, it hosts cultural events, religious celebrations, and fairs. The church interior exudes calm elegance, with walls decorated in traditional Spanish patterns, handcrafted altar elements, and stained glass that diffuses soft light.
The plaza in front of the church, Plaza de la Iglesia, is a popular gathering place. It hosts cafés with terraces, art shops, and small restaurants. Thanks to its open space and hilltop location, it serves as a natural viewpoint to rest after walking through the narrow streets of the Old Town and enjoy the panorama of the Albir coast.
Art Workshops and Galleries
Altea’s art scene is a key part of its culture. Over the years, the town has attracted creatives thanks to its landscapes, calmness, and mild Mediterranean climate. There are dozens of galleries and studios displaying paintings, ceramics, glasswork, jewelry, and sculptures.
Many local artists open their workshops to visitors, offering a chance to see the creation process, meet the authors, and purchase unique works. Popular forms include realism and impressionism painting, handcrafted ceramics, and contemporary decorative metal and glass items.
During summer, the art market along the Old Town’s main streets is eagerly awaited by tourists and locals alike. Exhibitions feature works from students of the Miguel Hernández University of Art Faculty near the town, reinforcing Altea’s status as a center of art and creativity on the Costa Blanca.
Altea Viewpoints
One of Altea’s key features is its hilly terrain, creating numerous natural and designed viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, bays, neighboring towns like Albir, Alfaz del Pi, and even Calpe with the famous Peñón de Ifach.
Mirador Cronistas
Google Maps: View on map Mirador Cronistas
Mirador Cronistas de España is the most famous viewpoint in Altea, a few minutes from the main square, offering wide, open views of the coast. From here, you can see Altea’s bays, Calpe outlines, and distant mountain ranges.
Equipped with railings and benches, the viewpoint is perfect for relaxation. In the evening, couples, photographers, and tourists gather to capture sunsets over the Mediterranean.
Plaza de la Iglesia
The church square also serves as a natural viewpoint. From here, visitors can admire the Albir coast, surrounding bays, and horizon lines. Its hilltop location makes it ideal for enjoying landscapes and resting during Old Town exploration. In the evening, musicians play Spanish classics, children run along the stone streets, and tourists photograph the church against the skyline.
Altea Beaches: Tranquility and Clear Water
Altea’s coast is known for pebble beaches, which provide much clearer water compared to sandy beaches in neighboring towns. Most beaches remain uncrowded even in high season, making them perfect for peaceful relaxation.
Playa de la Roda
Google Maps: View on map Playa de la Roda
Playa de la Roda is Altea’s main city beach, long and family-friendly. It runs along a broad promenade with restaurants, shops, bike lanes, and relaxation areas. The gentle sea entry makes it safe for children. Lifeguard services operate in summer, and the promenade is popular for evening walks.
Playa Cap Negret
Google Maps: View on map Playa Cap Negret
Cap Negret is known for its dark gray volcanic stones, creating a unique water palette from light turquoise to deep blue. The beach is favored by those who appreciate natural landscapes and tranquility. Its clean, deep water makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Cala del Soio and Mascarat
These coves are among Altea’s most picturesque. Cala del Soio is a small hidden rocky cove near the Campomanes marina. Its deep, clear water is perfect for snorkeling.
Google Maps: View on map Cala
Mascarat is a cove surrounded by cliffs, ideal for SUP surfing, snorkeling, and quiet relaxation away from crowded beaches.
Google Maps: View on map Mascarat
Altea Port and Seafront Promenade
Google Maps: View on map Puerto de Altea
Altea Port is a modern marina with yachts, fishing boats, and leisure vessels. It is the center of the town’s maritime life, offering activities from boat rentals to fishing and sea tours. The promenade is perfect for evening walks, lined with cafés and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Spanish dishes.
Several sailing and diving schools nearby offer lessons for all levels. Thanks to calm waters and mild climate, the port attracts active tourists year-round.
Altea Nature Trails
The surrounding nature attracts hikers and trekkers. Trails along the coast and mountains offer new perspectives of the town and its surroundings, mostly through Mediterranean landscapes, combining exercise with visual beauty.
Sierra de Bernia
Google Maps: View on map Sierra de Bernia
Sierra de Bernia is an impressive mountain range near Altea, famous for trails through rocky landscapes, forests, and viewpoints. The most notable feature is the Forat de Bernia, a natural rock tunnel offering unique coastal panoramas.
The hike takes 3–4 hours, requiring medium fitness. Despite some challenging sections, it is popular for its breathtaking views of Costa Blanca, including Altea, Albir, Benidorm, and Calpe. The trail allows experiencing the contrast between coastal and mountain landscapes, making it a rich experience.
Conclusion
Altea is a town where art, nature, and history blend harmoniously, creating a unique space for rest and inspiration. Snow-white streets, art workshops, pebble beaches, quiet viewpoints, and nature trails make it perfect for those seeking a different side of the Costa Blanca.
The town combines tradition and modernity: the Old Town preserves its historic spirit, while the port and promenade offer active leisure and contemporary gastronomy. Altea is a destination for tranquility, beauty, and inspiration, attracting tourists from around the world.
