ABOUT ALTEA
Altea is one of the best places to visit on the Costa Blanca. It has retained it’s beauty and charm unlike many other former fishing villages. Altea is located almost in the middle, between Valencia and Alicante.
Altea has a quiet charm yet is close to bigger more vibrant towns with good shopping and nightlife.
Other towns nearby are La Nucia, Polop, Callosa d’En Sarria, Albir and Alfaz del Pi.
History
The name Altea comes from the Greek: Altahia (I heal) and from the river Algar (the river of the health). Numerous groups of people settled in Altea, including the Iberians, Greeks, Romans and Moslems.
Altea prospered due to it’s strategic importance because the city lies in the vicinity of the mouth of the river Algar. Altea harbour was perfect for supplying the sailors and fisherman with fresh drinking water.
Under the Greek and Roman leaderships, the region became an important trade centre. Many factories sprung up producing dried salt fish.
The production was also improved by the Arabians however Altea was hit badly at the beginning of the 17th century due to attacks by pirates, what led to a dramatic decline of the population numbers and the guns to fight the pirates off are displayed in the town.
Sights and Attractions
Altea is famous for the landmark church of Nuestra Senora del Consuelo or Virgen del Consuelo with its fantastic looking blue roof. This is set up on a hill and can be seen for miles around.
The old town part of Altea is set on a steep hillside and the streets are littered with small designer shops and is popular with artists.
Amongst the narrow streets with their scenic white houses, orange trees and geraniums you’ll find painters, potters and many other traditional craftsmen’s studios.
There is a real authentic Spanish feel to Altea town, often missing from others on the coast.
Beaches
The harbor and marina of Altea are also noteworthy. It is very pretty and scenic and a great place to eat or drink.
The beach of Altea is over 5 km long and is divided into the stoney Cap Negret beach to the north of Altea, followed by the La Roda beach next to the old town and the largest beach the Cap Blanc to the south which blends into the coast of Albir.
Bars and Restaurants
Altea is a large popular tourist resort with many bars, pubs and restaurants. Altea restaurants worth visiting include the Xef Pirata – Gastro Bar, La Bruschetta, La Costera, El Perro Negro, La Maja, I Oustau de Altea and a lot more.
