Altea, a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Blanca, sits between Calp and Benidorm with plenty to offer. Our quick guide will give you some ideas of what to do, where to eat and where to stay if you’re planning a visit.

• What to do in Altea
  • Hiking
    • Bérnia
    • Cami de la Cova de la Serp
  • Bunkers
  • Fiestas
    • Mig Any
    • La Santísima Trinidad
    • San Juan
    • San Antonio
    • Patronal Festivities & Moros y Cristianos
    • Castell de l'Olla
• Where to Eat in Altea
• Where to Stay in Altea
• The Surrounding Area
  • Calp
  • Benissa

What to do in Altea

Hiking

Bérnia

The route PR-CV 7 which is currently recorded as having passed quality control checks will take you to and around the Sierra de Bérnia – an 18 km hike that takes you on a trip with stunning views of the community’s natural beauty. Along the way you’ll pass various points of historical interest such as the fort of Bérnia and ancient cave paintings.

Cami de la Cova de la Serp

This route of approximately 12km takes you along a historic path exploring the rocky terrain and incredible scenery, on a trail that originally formed part of a route used by merchants from Alta Vella to the Ermita de Pinos. The FEMECV state that the route is currently undergoing maintenance to ensure it is safe and has been decomissioned temporarily.

Bunkers

Eight bunkers were constructed during the Spanish Civil War in 1937, of which two remain standing and in good condition. They are almost 2 metres high, with concrete walls that are approximately 70 centimetres thick.

They were originally built as a deterrent and were never actually used for any form of coastal defence.

Fiestas

Mig Any

In February Altea celebrates the Mig Any festival with the traditional Moors and Christians parade and confrontation honouring San Blas. The celebrations also include musical performances in the streets and communal meals in the various neighbourhoods.

La Santísima Trinidad

This traditional religious festival occurs in June in the neighbourhood of Bellaguarda, with processions, folk music and traditional dance.

San Juan

Celebrated in the Fornet neighbourhood, this festival takes place in Late June. The festival includes a ceremonial planting of a tree, a tradition linked to fertility and the summer solstice, bonfires and fire jumping as well as street parties with food, local wine and music.

San Antonio

In the part of Altea known as Partida Cap Blanch, they honour San Antonio in late June, where they hold horse and carriage parades and a blessing for the animals. You can also expect local fairs, street markets and concerts.

Patronal Festivities & Moros y Cristianos

The patronal festivities are dedicated to San Blas and the Cristo del Sagrario with fireworks displays, street parties and concerts with traditional Valencian food stalls and wine tastings.

The festival is accompanied by a large moros y cristianos parade, with elaborate costumes, mock battles and historical re-enactments of the Christian reconquest of Spain.

Castell de l'Olla

In August, Altea hosts their largest fireworks and pyrotechnics display on the sea with people from across Spain coming to visit for spectacle. They also have music and other cultural events in the build up to the day.

Where to Eat in Altea

Altea has a great variety of restaurants, many of which allow you to dine with views of the Mediterranean Sea. Some popular restaurants in Altea include the Paladar Delicatessen, the Plant Shack and the Pizzeria Punto de Encuentro.

Where to Stay in Altea

Altea offers a wide range of accommodation options, suitable for any test. For stunning sea views and a stay close to the beach, Moona Hostal is a popular choice with visitors. On the other hand a 15-minute walk from the town centre, you’ll find a more rural side of Altea, where places like Altea Paradise offer a peaceful retreat in a different setting.

The Surrounding Area

Calp

Calp, famous for its iconic Peñón de Ifach, is a coastal town that blends history, nature, and Mediterranean charm. With fantastic beaches, a fishing port, and a historic old town full of character, it’s another great spot to enjoy fresh seafood and soak up the Costa Blanca sun.

Benissa

Benissa, known for its well-preserved medieval town, is a large municipality that provides the best of the Marina Alta. From museums to markets and local vineyards to hidden coves along the coastline.