Holiday home Altea: wander through whitewashed streets and relax on the beach of colorful Villajoyosa

Altea is a radiant white seaside town, perched on a hill along the Costa Blanca. Compared to other resorts like Benidorm, this city feels like an authentic breath of fresh air! Enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, go snorkeling at one of the pebble beaches or head to the sandy beaches of Albir and Villajoyosa. Do you want to discover the Costa Blanca away from mass tourism? Consider a holiday home in Altea after reading the following tips!

Start your holiday at Plaza de la Iglesia from your holiday home in Altea

The sunlight reflecting off the whitewashed houses instantly sets the tone for a Mediterranean holiday as you stroll through the streets of Altea. The blue-domed church rising above the houses may even make you feel as if you are in Greece. As you explore the town, you gradually reach scenic viewpoints and the elevated square Plaza de la Iglesia. This charming meeting place is lined with palm trees and terraces. Take a walk around the church too, as you’ll eventually stumble upon balconies overflowing with purple flowers.

Tip: visit the St. Michael Arcangel church on the green outskirts of Altea. This is a faithful replica of a Russian Orthodox church, built almost entirely out of wood.

Stroll along the promenade and visit the weekly markets

Like many Spanish seaside towns, Altea is perfect for strolling along its long promenade. Lined with palm trees, the boulevard invites you to look for an ice cream shop or a terrace. At the marina, rows of palms and plenty of benches create the perfect setting for an evening drink in one of the bars or restaurants. Altea also comes alive each week with its local market. Calle Filarmonica is home to one of the largest collections of market stalls on the Costa Blanca.

Snorkel at Playa Mascarat and sunbathe in Albir

Altea is quieter than other Costa Blanca resorts partly because of its pebble beaches. While these are great for snorkeling, sandy beaches are not directly in town. For fine sand, you’ll need to go a little further. The beach of Albir, just two kilometers to the south, is the perfect option. This way, from a holiday home in Altea, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: an authentic and peaceful town with a sandy beach close by!

Visit colorful Villajoyosa from your holiday home in Altea

South of Benidorm lies Villajoyosa, a seaside town where you can stretch out on a wide sandy beach. What makes this town truly special are the narrow, brightly painted houses along the seafront. Once used as a landmark for fishermen at sea, these tall colorful buildings are now a defining feature. Villajoyosa is not overly touristy, and you’ll have no trouble finding a spot on the 3-kilometer-long beach.

Tip: visit the Valor Chocolate Museum and order churros con chocolate at the Valor factory. Two other local chocolate brands also have their own museums here.

Peñón de Ifach: the iconic rock of Calpe

Not far from Altea lies Calpe, a town with its own distinct character. Sunseekers love its sandy beach that gently slopes into turquoise waters. While swimming or sunbathing, you’ll gaze up at the towering rock rising from the headland. Known as the Peñón de Ifach, this massive rock is part of a nature reserve and accessible via a hiking trail. At one point, the path leads straight through the rock, ending at a breathtaking viewpoint over Calpe and the Costa Blanca. Note: access to the rock is only granted with a reserved ticket. Without it, you won’t be allowed to climb!

Visit the red apartment complex Muralla Roja

Whether you like modern art or not, the apartments in the Manzanera district of Calpe are too striking to miss! This unusual complex resembles a fortress, with staggered heights and bold geometric shapes. The architect drew inspiration from the sandy citadels of North Africa, but here the color scheme is deep red. Although the building is not open to the public since it’s used as private apartments and holiday accommodation, you can still admire stunning views of the bay and the giant rock of Calpe from its base on the cliff edge.

Follow the Paseo Ecológico or join a catamaran excursion

Looking for a scenic coastal walk with shaded spots? Follow the Paseo Ecológico, a 4-kilometer trail connecting Calpe and Benissa. The manageable elevation changes make it suitable for children, and the views of hidden coves along the way are spectacular. Prefer something different from walking or lounging on the beach? Take a catamaran cruise! From the water, you’ll enjoy the gorgeous coastline, the sea breeze, and perhaps a refreshing swim.

Rent a holiday home in Altea

Altea is the perfect resort if you want to enjoy the Costa Blanca’s Mediterranean vibe without the crowds. The beaches are relatively quiet, ideal for snorkeling, and sandy shores like Albir and Calpe are close at hand. Do you want to wander the whitewashed streets, dine by the marina, or take an unforgettable coastal walk? Book a holiday home in Altea and enjoy an authentic beach holiday on the Costa Blanca!