Altea is a beautiful city just six miles from Benidorm on the Costa Blanca and is the complete antithesis to the boisterous resort – offering a unique sense of tranquillity
A stunning seaside city, just a stone’s throw away from Benidorm, feels like it’s worlds apart.
When you think of an all-inclusive, sun-drenched, boozy package holiday in southern Spain, the name that likely springs to mind is Benidorm. Brits makeup the majority of visitors to this beachside haven, with many treating it as a second home.
Each year, around a million UK holidaymakers flock here for a week or two of indulgence, soaking up some much-needed sunshine. Many will stay within their resorts for the duration, but if they knew about the region’s breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and stunning coastline, they might venture further.
While there are countless local areas around Benidorm worth exploring, one stands out above the rest – the small city of Altea. Just six miles from Benidorm as the crow flies, Altea sees almost 2,000 percent fewer visitors, with only 50,000 party-goers hitting its streets each year.
Nestled on the Costa Blanca, Altea has been a popular spot since the 1950s, thanks to its year-round fantastic weather, maze-like streets, and whitewashed houses. Shielded by the cliffs of the Serra de Bèrnia, a warm microclimate has developed around the city, promoting the growth of palm trees along its seafront promenade, creating a scene more akin to the Caribbean.
Perhaps due to fewer visitors, Altea has managed to retain a historical charm that Benidorm seems to lack, reports the Express. This could be attributed to the significant role the town played in Spain’s captivating yet tumultuous history.
Historical records reveal that Altea has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was subsequently claimed by various civilisations including the Phoenicians, Iberians, Greeks, and Carthaginians. The Muslim Kingdom conquered the city in the eighth century, followed by the Taifa Kingdom of Denia three centuries later.
Recognising its historical importance, subsequent rulers built a massive wall around Altea to safeguard its identity. In 1471, it became part of the Argonian Kingdom under King Jaume I.
Much of this rich history is still visible today. For those interested in religious sites, there’s the beautifully designed Parroquia Nuestra Senora del Consuelo church, the Iglesia Ortodoxa Rosa San Miguel Arcangel, and the Nostra Senyora del Consol.
The charming old town features narrow streets leading to bars, restaurants, independent shops, historical sites, and boutique hotels. A little outside the city, you’ll find the Fort de Bèrnia, built in 1562, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
Reaching the fort requires a somewhat challenging hike, but online reviews suggest it’s worth the effort. Just beyond an old fort lies a breathtaking natural wonder – a tunnel carved through a mountain that provides awe-inspiring views of the surrounding area.
This hidden gem, formed over millennia, has been described by one explorer on TripAdvisor as offering a “You can then continue around the mountain, climbing back up toward the top of the ridge until you reach a tunnel that takes you through to the southern slope of the mountain and again opens up spectacular views over Altea and south as far as El Campello in the distance – a most spectacular circular walk.”
Their testimonial read: “The old fort is just a ruin but continue on over the shoulder of the ridge and a whole vista of the Alta Marina opens before you.
“You can then continue around the mountain, climbing back up toward the top of the ridge until you reach a tunnel that takes you through to the southern slope of the mountain and again opens up spectacular views over Altea and south as far as El Campello in the distance – a most spectacular circular walk.”
In the heart of the city, Altea takes pride as the cultural and artistic hub of Costa Blanca, boasting a plethora of theatres, galleries, and venues for events. The majestic Palau Altea, accommodating up to a thousand guests, forms part of Spain’s illustrious Theatre Network with weekly performances.
Outdoor events like “Nits al so de l’aigua” or the “Route of the Hermitages” enchant the locals and tourists alike. There’s also an array of contemporary craft exhibitions such as “Balconadas”, coupled with access to the Library and the Music Conservatory.
The charm of Altea is limitless, a destination you can truly personalise. With hotel rates similar to those in Benidorm, it would be a missed opportunity not to discover this hidden treasure.
