Altea, Spain, Jan 31: A world untouched and untarnished by skyscrapers (forbidden by the law here), a lovely fishing village, one of the prettiest towns on the Costa Blanca, that is Altea for you. Altea has maintained its original atmosphere and that’s what makes it a perfect travel destination. Enjoy!
A world away
Despite its close proximity to one of Europe`s largest tourist hotspots, the white-washed old town of Altea has managed to remain untouched by mass tourism. All the little quirky jewellery shops and restaurants make it a lovely place to wander around.
During the summer month every night on the small cozy plaza in the old centre there is a handicraft market . All around the plaza are different bars and restaurants, from where you have a wonderful view because the plaza is situated at the highest point of the village.
Every Tuesday there is a market on the sea boulevard. For those who like theme parks at about 10 km, there is Terra Mitica. Waterfall (Algar) and an entire village built atop a cliff (Guadalest), Altea has it all.
Just outside the town is the Hotel Melia Altea Hills. It`s built in a Mediterranean style, set back from the coast and overlooking the sea. It has all the usual facilities you would expect from a five star hotel, including five swimming pools, three restaurants, two bars, tennis courts and paddle tennis, played on a short court.
Pamper yourself
It`s also situated close to the 18-hole Don Cayo golf course. Although it was built only four years ago there are still Moorish details in its design. It`s a `get away from it all` sort of place with an emphasis on health and fitness - but still very comfortable.
Fountains and mountains
Whichever room you choose, you will have a sea view. So the only choice you`ll need to make is between a double, with a spa bath on the balcony, or you could stay in a junior suite with its own living room and dining room. The restaurant has lots of choice though, including some local dishes.
Children are welcome at the hotel and they are catered for reasonably well. They have their own pool and there is a supervised kids` club.
It`s possible to feel a bit cut off without a car. The nearest beach, a 10-minute taxi ride away, is very secluded, but rather pebbly. So it`s worth hiring a car and exploring. One should not miss the popular stop on the tourist trail, the fountains of Algar. The water stays icy all year round, so is popular in August, the height of summer, when people visit to get away from the searing heat of the coastline.
The fifteen minute drive from the Fountains of Algar to the amazingly scenic Guadalest takes you through some glorious countryside. The ancient village perched up in the mountains was founded by the Moors well over a thousand years ago. It`s separated into two halves: the ancient walled fortress and the newer part that`s grown up outside the gates. It has had a troubled history, having suffered two eathquakes, and been fought over numerous times.
Don’t miss: The old centre (Casco Urbano) with its cozy bars and restaurants, the Campomanes marina with good but somewhat expensive bars and restaurants, the sea boulevard with all its pavement terraces and Altea la Vieja (3 km) with its chiringuitos (simple restaurants on the beach).
Bureau Report
