Altea (Altea)

Member Name: JE_08

Product:	Altea
Date:	29/04/08 (136 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Picturesque, Escape from heavy tourism

Disadvantages: Very old, slightly derelict in some areas

Altea, one of the most picturesque spanish towns on the Costa Blanca.
It is located directly between the towns of Albir and Calpe and consists of marvellous views from the hill of the old town (Mt Sierra Bernia) overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean below.

The seafront is bedecked with palm trees and dotted with cafe's, restaurants and bars, enough to pleasure tourists and the local spanish folk. However there is a large English, German and Dutch ex-pat population living amongst them aswell.

If visiting the old town then the church is a must see (la iglesia de la Virgen del Consuelo), located in the Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. A cobblestoned square ontop of the hill which is visible from anywhere in Altea.
However it requires climbing up the narrow pebbled paths and alleys which lay between the whitewashed buildings. So wear some decent walking shoes if you're going to try it.

Next to the square is an area which has, in my opinion, one of the best views on the Costa Blanca. The more modern town of Altea and the towns of Albir and La Nucia can be seen from this spot with the tail end of Benidorm in the far distance.
This stunning view is the same view used in the first episode of the second BBC TV series "Benidorm".
Anyone who's been to Altea old town may recognise the streets that characters Kate and Martin venture upon their arrival.

At the foot of the hill is the fishermen's quarter, now enlivened by a seafront promenade and a port, which keeps the town busy.

If you're staying in Altea and wish to get out of town, there is a reliable bus service which at the expense of one euro, will take you to Albir and Benidorm.
If you wish to go further there is also a train service which is slightly less reliable and at a more costly expense.
This runs between Denia and Alicante.

Overall a highly recommendable visit.
Especially if you don't enjoy the hustle and bustle of a typical holiday destination such as Benidorm.

Summary: A typical Spanish town