Free walking tours in Altea and what to see

Must-sees

Altea’s old town sits on a small hill above the sea. Its narrow, sloping cobbled streets, with white houses and flowerpots on the walls, climb to the square of the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Its domes of glazed blue tiles are the town’s best-known image. From the viewpoints beside the square you can see the whole bay and, in the distance, the Peñón de Ifach.

Below, the promenade runs along La Roda and Cap Negret beaches, of pebbles and very clean water. To the north is the marina, with restaurants and a lively atmosphere at sunset. If you like walking, the Serra de Bernia is very close and has routes with views of the coast. Altea la Vella, the old village inland, is quiet and worth a short visit.

Free tours and guided visits

Altea is a small town and pay-what-you-like free walking tours do not run all year. Guided walks of the old town are more common, focusing on the church, the town’s history and its past as a home for artists and fishermen. Group trips to nearby inland sights, such as Guadalest castle or the Fonts de l’Algar, and boat trips along the coast also leave from here.

How long to spend

Four or five hours are enough for the old town and the promenade. It is best to go up in the morning, when it is cooler and less busy, and go down to the beach in the afternoon. If you want to add a hike in the Serra de Bernia or a trip to Guadalest, allow two days. With three or more you can combine it with Calpe, Jávea or Benidorm without rushing.

Where to stay

Staying in or around the old town lets you stroll the lit-up streets at night, when the town is quieter. If you prefer to be by the sea, the promenade and La Roda beach area is a few minutes’ walk from the centre and has restaurants and services. Anyone looking for more calm can look at places towards Cap Negret or the marina.