Altea, Spain: The White Pearl of Costa Blanca

Altea is a charming city on the Mediterranean coast in the province of Alicante, Valencia region, Spain. Known for its white houses, picturesque old town, and bohemian atmosphere, Altea attracts tourists, artists, expats, and investors. This city combines the authenticity of a traditional Spanish village with modern resort amenities, making it ideal for recreation, living, and creativity. Discover why Altea is called the "white pearl" of Costa Blanca.

Why Choose Altea?

Altea is a place where tranquility and inspiration reign. With a population of about 25,000 people, the city attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. A significant portion of residents are expats from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia, creating a multicultural atmosphere. Altea is especially popular among creative individuals thanks to galleries, workshops, and festivals.

Key Features of Altea:

• Old Town: White streets with sea views and the Nuestra Señora del Consuelo church with blue domes.
• Beaches: Playa de la Roda and Playa Cap Blanc with crystal clear water and pebbles.
• Climate: More than 300 sunny days per year, mild winter (12–16 °C) and warm summer (28–32 °C).
• Culture: Bohemian atmosphere with art galleries, music festivals, and craft fairs.

History of Altea: From Fishing Village to Bohemian Resort

Origin of the Name

The name "Altea" comes from the Arabic "Althaya" (health) or Greek "Althaia" (healing), which may be related to the region's healing climate. The city also has Roman roots, known as Althaia.

Main Historical Periods:

1. Antiquity: Altea was an Iberian and Roman settlement serving as a trading point.

2. Middle Ages: Under Arab rule (8th–13th centuries), the city strengthened as a port. After the Reconquista in the 13th century, it became part of the Christian kingdom.

3. Fishing Period (16th–19th centuries): Altea thrived thanks to fishing and agriculture, especially almond and grape cultivation.

4. Tourist Flourishing (20th Century): Since the 1960s, Altea has attracted artists and tourists thanks to its charm and mild climate, becoming a bohemian center of Costa Blanca.

The old town and Nuestra Señora del Consuelo church with its iconic blue domes remain symbols of Altea's historical heritage.

Altea Attractions

Altea abounds with cultural and natural attractions that create its unique character.

Altea Old Town (Casco Antiguo)

• Description: Labyrinth of white streets with flowered balconies, galleries, and craft shops.
• Features: Panoramic sea views, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo church with blue domes, and cozy cafes.

Promenade and Port

• Description: Paseo Marítimo waterfront with restaurants, bars, and yacht views.
• Features: Perfect place for walks and dinner with sunset views.

Altea Beaches

• Playa de la Roda: Central pebble beach next to the old town, ideal for peaceful recreation.
• Playa Cap Blanc: Picturesque beach with clean water, popular for snorkeling.
• Cala del Soio: Secluded cove for those seeking tranquility.

Cultural Centers

• Palau Altea: Cultural center hosting concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions.
• Galleries and Workshops: Many art studios such as Galería de Arte El Visionario attract creative tourists.

Altea Climate: Perfect for Recreation and Living

Altea's Mediterranean climate makes the city attractive year-round. The average annual temperature is 18–20 °C, summer is warm (28–32 °C), winter is mild (12–16 °C). There is little rainfall (about 350 mm per year), and more than 300 sunny days. The sea warms up to 25–27 °C from May to October, providing a long swimming season.

Altea Infrastructure

Altea offers everything for comfortable living and recreation:

• Transport:

- Buses: Regular service to Alicante, Benidorm, and Calpe.

- TRAM Train: Connects Altea with Alicante and Denia.

- Alicante-Elche Airport: 40 minutes away, serves international flights.

• Medicine:

- Centro de Salud Altea: Public clinic for local residents.

- IMED Levante (Benidorm): Private clinic 15 minutes away, with services in English and Russian.

• Shopping:

- Mercadona and Consum: Supermarkets for daily purchases.

- Mercado de Altea: Weekly market on Tuesdays with food, clothing, and souvenirs.

- Craft Shops: Unique shops with ceramics, paintings, and handmade items.

• Education:

- Public Schools: CEIP Garganes and IES Bellaguarda, free education in Spanish and Valencian.

- Private Schools: International schools nearby such as The Lady Elizabeth School (20 minutes), with British curriculum (€8,000–13,000/year).

- Kindergartens: Escuela Infantil Altea (€300–400/month, bilingual education).

• Gastronomy:

- Oustau de Altea: High cuisine restaurant with panoramic views.

- La Perla de Altea: Seafood and paella in the port area.

- Ca Palleiro: Traditional tapas bar in the old town.

Entertainment and Active Recreation

Altea offers diverse entertainment for tourists and locals:

• Cultural Festivals: Festival de Música y Cultura de Altea (summer) with concerts and exhibitions, Moros y Cristianos (September) with parades.
• Water Sports: Diving, kayaking, sailing, and yacht trips.
• Hiking Trails: Walks in Serra Gelada Natural Park or along the coast.
• Nightlife: Cozy bars such as La Mascarada and live music in the old town.
• Family Recreation: Beaches and parks such as Parque de la Barreta for picnics and games.

Living and Investment in Altea

Altea attracts expats and investors thanks to its bohemian atmosphere, affordable real estate (average apartment price €130,000–220,000), and high quality of life. The city is ideal for those seeking tranquility, creative environment, and proximity to nature. Proximity to Alicante (40 minutes) and Benidorm (15 minutes) makes Altea attractive for renting and buying real estate.

Why Choose Altea?

• Unique architecture and bohemian atmosphere of the old town.
• Affordable housing prices compared to major Spanish cities.
• Mild climate and picturesque landscapes.
• Multicultural environment with services for expats.

Want to learn more about living in Altea, relocation, or real estate investment? Contact us or visit our blog for up-to-date information! Also read our articles about [Benidorm](benidorm-guide.md), [Alicante](alicante-guide.md), and [Calpe](calpe-guide.md) to compare Costa Blanca resorts.