Altea

Altea lies between Calpe and Albir on the northern Costa Blanca and has a character that deliberately sets it apart from the rest: it is not without reason called the "artists' capital of the Costa Blanca". The old centre — La Vila — rises like a terrace above the coast, with whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets full of flowers and the iconic church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo with its blue and white domes. More than forty galleries, studios and craft shops have established themselves here, drawn by the special light and picturesque surroundings. Altea has never allowed the mass tourism that characterises neighbouring Benidorm — and that is precisely what makes it so attractive.

Facilities are good: supermarkets, international and Spanish schools, medical care, a lively weekly market and a wide range of restaurants. Alicante Airport is around 60 km away. Benidorm is 10 minutes away for those seeking more entertainment. Altea is liveable all year round and attracts a diverse group of permanent residents — artists, retirees and international buyers who place quality of life above scale.

Beaches & nature

• Playa de Altea — the central pebble beach, clean and quiet, with promenade and restaurants.
• Playa de la Roda — Blue Flag sandy beach south of the centre, family-friendly.
• Cap Negret — rocky coastal zone north of Altea, popular with snorkellers and divers.
• Sierra de Bernia — the impressive mountain range behind Altea, with spectacular hiking routes and panoramic views.
• Mondragó wetlands — protected natural area directly behind the coastal zone, with rich birdlife.

Living & neighbourhoods

• La Vila (old centre) — the most authentic and sought-after location, with small whitewashed houses and a unique atmosphere. Limited supply, high price per m².
• Beach zone — apartments and smaller houses along the promenade, close to the beach. Lively and well-equipped.
• Altea Hills — exclusive gated community on the hills above the town, with spectacular panoramic sea views. Modern villas, 24/7 security and private club. Highest prices in Altea.
• Altea la Vella — the historic hamlet outside the centre, with its own rustic character and spacious fincas and villas. Popular with those seeking space and privacy.
• Mascarat / El Albir — transitional zone towards Albir and Calpe, with apartments and villas on the rocky coast. Good value for money.

Practical

• ✅ Unique artistic character and cultural life
• ✅ Authentic old centre with iconic appeal
• ✅ Well-equipped all year round
• ✅ Broad spectrum from affordable to ultra-exclusive (Altea Hills)
• ✅ Central location between Calpe, Benidorm and Alicante
• ❌ Pebble beaches — no wide sandy beaches in the centre
• ❌ Narrow streets in La Vila — parking difficult
• ❌ Property prices in La Vila and Altea Hills structurally high

More information: Municipality of Altea · Costa Blanca Tourism — Altea