Altea

As we approach the town by car, Altea's historic quarter appears against the monumental backdrop of Sierra Bernia, offering a gorgeous panoramic view.

The town of Altea sits on top of a hill whose highest altitude is dominated by the belltower of the parish church of the Virgin of Consuelo, and by both a wide dome covered with blue and white tiles, and a second one, crowned by a small cupola. From the square in front of the church we can see the whole region. From this point on, numerous steep, cobbled streets, many of which have steps or are lined with small miradors and bowers, begin their descent towards the sea. Typical whitewashed houses, which were formerly protected by a solid wall, mark the way. It is frequent to see artists' workshops and studios in this traditional urban space, as well as craft shops. In the lower part of town we find the commercial street of King Jaime I, the fishermen quarter, and the port, an area marked by heavy fishing trade. We can also see the crowded promenade, and six kilometres worth of beaches with pebbles, small coves, and cliffs. In Altea we must point out two fiestas: the fireworks of Castell de L’Olla, in August, and the festivities of Moors and Christians, in late September.