Altea

Travelling by car along the N332 main road, shortly after Calpe one crosses the Mascarat, an imposing gorge spanned by a bridge with one single arch. Due to its unusual proximity to the sea, this gorge and the surrounding area are of singular attraction. Not long afterwards one sights the wide curve of the bay of Altea, marked by its excellent beaches and sheltered coves. Not far from the bay, on a gentle slope, the picturesque old sector of the town displays its white houses climbing the hillside, and the ochre profile of the church, crowned by a colourful cupola. Very close to Altea is the mouth of the river Algar, the waters of which were much appreciated in days gone by the sailors in the area, who, even in the times of the Greek colonization, anchored here to replenish their supplies of drinking water! Due to its strategic value, the river mouth was defended by two-batteries of coastal artillery. Where they once stood, in the higher part of the old town, one can now find separate little-out points. The cannon prevented any Barbary private ships from taking on water, at the same time defending Altea from their attacks.

things to see and do

Leave your car in any of the streets that branch off the main road and begin a long and leisurely walk up to the old part of the town (Altea la Vieja). Here perched on top of a hill you get magnificent views of the sea, the mountains and the Penon de lfach.

Golfers should enjoy a visit to the nine-hole Clube de Golf Don Cayo where you can hire clubs and trolleys.

on the beach

Next to the town are the beaches of La Roda and Cap Blanch

in the shops

The local market is held on Tuesdays in the seafront barrio, of Altea.

The post office, shops and banks are located in the commercial part of the town.

Plaza de la lglesia is home to stalls where you can browse over and buy the local crafts.

restaurants and cafes

In the lower part of old town, there are lots of outdoor bars and restaurants where you can try the excellent paella cooked over a wood fire, or simply enjoy a glass of wine with the sea below you.

The seafront esplanade offers a variety of restaurants where you can sample the local fish caught in the bay.