Altea
Altea is one of the most distinctive destinations on the Costa Blanca North, combining a beautiful Mediterranean coastline with a historic whitewashed old town, mountain scenery and a strong artistic and cultural identity. Its famous blue-and-white domed church, traditional hillside streets and panoramic views across the bay give Altea a character that is very different from larger resort towns such as Benidorm.
The town stretches along the coast between Albir and Calpe, with the historic centre rising above the seafront and residential areas extending inland towards Altea la Vella and the Sierra de Bernia. The result is a varied property market ranging from traditional townhouses and apartments close to the centre to modern developments, sea-view properties and substantial villas in areas such as Altea Hills.
Why Buy Property in Altea?
Altea appeals to buyers looking for more than simply a beach resort. It offers an attractive combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, traditional Spanish architecture, restaurants, galleries, beaches, marina facilities and excellent scenery.
The old town is particularly distinctive, with whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, small squares, artisan shops and viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean. The Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, with its instantly recognisable blue-tiled domes, dominates the skyline and has become one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Costa Blanca.
For property buyers, Altea also offers considerable variety. You can live within walking distance of the seafront, choose a traditional property in or around the old town, or move further inland for larger properties, more privacy and spectacular mountain and sea views.
Property for Sale in Altea
The Altea property market includes both traditional and contemporary homes, with properties available in established residential areas as well as newer developments.
You will find:
- Apartments and penthouses close to the beach and town centre
- Sea-view apartments with large terraces
- Traditional townhouses and village properties
- Modern apartments within residential complexes
- Semi-detached and detached houses
- Contemporary villas with private swimming pools
- Luxury villas with panoramic Mediterranean views
- Properties in Altea Hills and other established residential areas
- Homes close to Altea la Vella and the Sierra de Bernia
This makes Altea suitable for buyers looking for a permanent home, holiday property, second home or a higher-end Mediterranean residence.
Apartments and Penthouses in Altea
Apartments are particularly popular along the coastal areas of Altea, providing an opportunity to enjoy the town without the maintenance associated with a larger villa.
Properties close to the seafront can offer easy access to the promenade, beaches, restaurants and marina, while higher-level apartments and penthouses can provide impressive views across the Mediterranean.
Larger terraces are particularly desirable, allowing residents to make the most of Altea's climate and coastal setting.
Townhouses and Traditional Properties
For buyers who want more character, Altea's traditional properties offer something very different from the modern apartment developments found elsewhere on the Costa Blanca.
The historic centre is characterised by whitewashed buildings, narrow cobbled streets, traditional architecture and small plazas. The old town climbs the hillside towards the church, with viewpoints opening out towards the bay.
Traditional townhouses and village-style homes can appeal particularly to buyers looking for an authentic Spanish setting, while properties slightly away from the old town can provide easier access and more practical living.
Villas for Sale in Altea
Altea is also well known for its detached villas, particularly in the hills surrounding the town.
Many larger properties benefit from elevated positions, giving views across the Mediterranean and towards the surrounding mountains. Depending on location, villas can offer:
- Private swimming pools
- Large terraces and gardens
- Several bedrooms and bathrooms
- Private parking or garages
- Panoramic sea views
- Outdoor entertaining areas
- Greater privacy than properties within the town centre
Altea Hills is particularly associated with luxury villas and elevated sea-view properties, while areas towards Altea la Vella offer a more spacious and established residential environment.
Altea Old Town
The old town is the heart of Altea's identity.
Built on a hill above the Mediterranean, its whitewashed houses and narrow cobbled streets lead towards the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. From the church square and surrounding viewpoints, there are impressive views across the rooftops and the bay.
The area also has a long association with artists and craftspeople. Galleries, workshops, independent shops, cafés and restaurants are spread throughout the historic streets, giving the old town a distinctly creative atmosphere.
For buyers who value character and atmosphere, this is one of the major attractions of owning property in Altea.
Beaches and the Mediterranean
Altea's coastline is different from the wide sandy beaches found in some southern Costa Blanca resorts.
Much of the coastline consists of pebble and shingle beaches, with clear Mediterranean water and a series of beaches and smaller coves. La Roda is the main urban beach, while Cap Blanch extends southwards towards Albir.
The seafront promenade provides a pleasant setting for walking, cycling, dining and enjoying the views, with the town and mountains creating a particularly attractive backdrop.
Altea Harbour and Marina
Altea has both a traditional fishing harbour and a modern marina, adding another dimension to the town's coastal lifestyle. The marina provides opportunities for sailing and other water-based activities, while the waterfront is lined with restaurants and places to enjoy the Mediterranean setting.
For buyers who enjoy boating, fishing or simply being close to the sea, this part of Altea is particularly appealing.
Altea la Vella
A short distance inland, Altea la Vella provides a quieter alternative to the coastal town.
The area sits close to the foothills of the Sierra de Bernia and is surrounded by greenery and mountain scenery. Properties here tend to have a more spacious feel, with villas and detached homes particularly well represented.
It can be a good option for buyers who want Altea's restaurants, beaches and amenities within easy reach but prefer a peaceful residential environment.
Sierra de Bernia and Outdoor Lifestyle
Altea's location between the Mediterranean and the mountains gives residents access to a wide range of outdoor activities.
The Sierra de Bernia provides opportunities for walking, hiking and enjoying the area's natural scenery, while the coastline is suited to swimming, sailing, kayaking and other water-based activities.
This combination of mountain and sea is one of Altea's strongest lifestyle advantages.
Restaurants, Shopping and Everyday Amenities
Altea has a strong year-round community rather than being purely a seasonal holiday resort.
The town centre and seafront offer a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, bars and independent shops, while the old town has galleries, craft shops and smaller businesses.
The artistic identity of Altea is particularly noticeable around the historic centre, where the streets are home to galleries, workshops and artisan businesses.
Everyday services are also available locally, making Altea practical for permanent residents as well as holiday homeowners.
Living in Altea All Year
Altea works particularly well as a permanent home for buyers who want a quieter Mediterranean lifestyle without sacrificing amenities.
The town has its own established community, local services, restaurants and cultural activities, while larger commercial areas and neighbouring towns are easily accessible.
Its position between Benidorm and Calpe also means residents can reach a much wider range of shopping, healthcare, leisure and entertainment facilities when required.
Holiday Homes in Altea
Altea's combination of beaches, restaurants, historic streets, marina facilities and spectacular scenery makes it an attractive choice for a second home.
A well-located apartment can provide easy access to the seafront and town, while a villa in the hills can offer privacy, outdoor space and panoramic views.
The town's character also makes it appealing to buyers who prefer a more traditional and individual setting rather than a large purpose-built resort.
Investment Property in Altea
Altea's property market covers a broad range of price points and property types, from traditional homes and apartments to high-value villas.
Properties with good locations, sea views, outdoor space and easy access to the coast can be particularly attractive to buyers.
For anyone considering property as an investment, the individual location and suitability of the property should be assessed carefully, particularly when comparing traditional town-centre properties with modern apartments and larger villas.
Golf Near Altea
Golfers are well placed, with several courses available within the wider Costa Blanca North region.
The surrounding area offers a combination of golf, mountain scenery and Mediterranean views, making Altea a useful base for buyers who want to combine coastal living with access to golf courses in the northern Costa Blanca.
Who Buys Property in Altea?
Altea attracts a particularly varied international property market.
Buyers include:
- Couples looking for a permanent Mediterranean home
- Retirees seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle
- Families looking for larger properties
- Second-home buyers
- International buyers seeking sea views
- Buyers looking for traditional Spanish character
- Purchasers interested in luxury villas and premium locations
- Golfers and outdoor enthusiasts
The variety of locations within Altea means buyers can choose between being close to the historic centre and sea, living in an established residential area or moving into the hills for greater privacy.
Location and Accessibility
Altea's position on the Costa Blanca North makes it convenient for exploring the wider region.
Benidorm is approximately 10 kilometres away, while Calpe lies around 10 kilometres to the north. Albir is immediately to the south, providing another popular coastal area with its own restaurants, beaches and residential properties.
Alicante Airport provides the main international connection for overseas buyers, while the coastal road and AP-7 provide straightforward access to neighbouring towns and cities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Property in Altea
Is Altea a good place to buy property?
Yes. Altea offers a combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, historic character, beaches, restaurants, culture and a varied property market ranging from apartments to luxury villas.
What type of property can I buy in Altea?
You can find apartments, penthouses, townhouses, traditional homes, semi-detached properties and detached villas, including luxury properties with panoramic sea views.
Is Altea suitable for permanent living?
Yes. Altea has an established year-round community and a good selection of shops, restaurants, services and leisure facilities.
Does Altea have sandy beaches?
Most of Altea's beaches are pebble or shingle rather than fine sand. This contributes to generally clear water, although suitable footwear can be useful.
Is Altea good for sea-view properties?
Very much so. The hillside position of the old town and surrounding residential areas creates numerous opportunities for elevated properties with views across the Mediterranean.
What is Altea known for?
Altea is particularly famous for its whitewashed old town and the blue-and-white tiled domes of the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, which have become a symbol of the town and the wider Costa Blanca.
Discover Property for Sale in Altea
Whether you're looking for a traditional townhouse in the old town, a modern apartment close to the seafront, a penthouse with panoramic sea views or a luxury villa with a private pool, Altea offers an exceptional choice of property in one of the Costa Blanca North's most distinctive locations.
At Solmar Estates, we can help you explore properties for sale in Altea as well as neighbouring areas including Albir, Benidorm, Finestrat and Calpe.
Browse our latest Altea listings by clicking the link below or contact our experienced team to help you find your perfect home in the sun 0034 678 933 450 Call or WhatsApp
Browse our latest listings for properties close to Altea by clicking the links below :-
Properties for sale Benidorm
Properties for sale Albir
Properties for sale Finestrat
Properties for sale Calpe
Properties for sale Villajoyosa
Properties for sale El Campello
Explore Costa Blanca North, from vibrant coastal resorts and stunning Mediterranean beaches to charming towns and peaceful inland communities. Discover the key locations where we help clients buy and sell property across the region. Click the link below to explore our Costa Blanca North Area Guide:

