Best things to do in Altea

Altea Essentials

Altea’s landscape is defined by the blue-domed Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Consuelo and the white-walled streets of its Casco Antiguo. This selection covers the historical core around Plaça de l'Església and the 16th-century Torre de Bellaguarda. Beyond the town, the list includes Roman aqueduct ruins and the high-altitude Fort de Bèrnia. Coastal features like the volcanic Cap Negret beach and the Memorial per la gent de la mar highlight the village's maritime heritage and botanical diversity.

Altea Essentials — Map

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

A

Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Consuelo

This 19th-century church is famous for its two domes of blue and white glazed tiles. Built on the site of a former temple, it serves as Altea's most recognizable landmark in the heart of the old town.

B

Plaça de l'Església

The main square of the old town, located at the highest point of the village. It is surrounded by traditional whitewashed houses and serves as a central hub for artisan markets and outdoor dining.

C

Mirador Cronistes d' Espanya

A balcony viewpoint adjacent to the church square, offering panoramic views across the Bay of Altea, the neighboring town of Albir, and the Peñón de Ifach rock formation in Calpe.

D

Torre de Bellaguarda

A 16th-century defensive watchtower built on the foundations of an ancient Moorish fortification. It was once part of the coastal defense system against pirate raids and now serves as a scenic lookout.

E

Bernia Ridge (rope needed)

A technical limestone ridge in the Sierra de Bernia. The route involves steep climbs and exposed sections that require ropes and climbing gear, providing expansive views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

F

Fort de Bèrnia

A 16th-century military fortification commissioned by King Philip II. Built to suppress Moorish uprisings and guard against Mediterranean pirate attacks, the site now consists of preserved stone ruins on the mountain slopes.

G

Restos del acueducto romano de Altea

Archaeological remains of a Roman-era water transport system. These stone structures reflect the ancient engineering used to channel water through the region for agricultural and domestic use.

H

Platja Cap Negret

A semi-urban beach characterized by dark pebbles and volcanic rock formations. Located near the mouth of the Algar River, it offers clear waters and a quieter setting than the central town beaches.

Joan Lluis Rodriguez / CC BY-SA 4.0

I

Memorial per la gent de la mar

A public sculpture and memorial dedicated to the local fishing community. It honors the historical importance of the sea to Altea’s economy and commemorates those who lost their lives at sea.

J

el jardin de los sentidos

A botanical garden and tea house containing over 400 species of tropical and subtropical plants. The space features narrow paths and water features designed for quiet contemplation.