Gallery
Description
The name Altea originated from the Greek name “Altahia” which means “I am healing”. This area has a long history; items have been found in Altea la Vella and Cap Negret which come from the Iberian people back from the 5th century to the first century B. C. In the 15th century, Altea was nearly unpopulated because of the pirates that attacked the city. “Church square is the centre of the old town"; where you will find the famous church with the blue dome. It is from the 16th century, but because of wars it was rebuilt at the end of the 18th century. In the sixties Altea was a "bohemian city" and for many years inspired painters, writers and musicians that made residence there.
The old town of Altea has kept its old atmosphere with coupled streets, which lead you up to the church place. The white painted buildings give you the feeling of a Spanish Mediterranean city. Altea is a meeting point with many first-class restaurants where you can choose from a selection of local dishes, including the famous Paella, or international delicacies. Here on the highest point in the city, the church place, there is nice view to Calpe (El Penon de Ifach) in the north, the beach, the ocean, Albir, Sierra Helada, and the skyscrapers in Benidorm in the south.
The seafront promenade is 2km long with restaurants of all choices. While Altea does not have the hustle and bustle like other coastal tourist towns, you will never be bored. It offers many recreational activities, sailing, diving, windsurfing, regattas, water skiing, and fishing is available at either of its two marinas: the Port of Altea and the Puerto Deportivo Campomanes. With over 5 Km of beaches, it is not hard to find a secluded retreat. Altea’s demanding Golf Don Cayo, situated in the living area Sierra Altea, offers extraordinary sea and mountain views.
Every Tuesday there is a market in Altea. There is a big selection of fruit, vegetables, gifts, clothes and shoes. Artists are showing their paintings.
Altea is without a doubt one of the most charming towns to be found on Spain's Costa Blanca with its combination of old and new.
