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Altea is without a doubt one of the most charming towns to be found on Spain\u2019s \u2018White Coast\u2019, located in the Alicante region of the Costa Blanca. The town is only 11 kilometres north of Benidorm, but the two resorts are worlds apart. Altea is similar to other towns on the Costa Blanca, in that it has a new area and an old area. The old area is located on top of a hill, offering truly spectacular views.<\/p>\n
Overall, Altea is a beautiful town, popular with both holidaymakers and those lucky enough to live in the area, and has a growing multinational expat community.<\/p>\n
The name Altea comes from the Moors who conquered the region and called it Althaya, meaning health for all.<\/p>\n
Altea does have excellent facilities, however, if you want to include night clubs and bright city lights during your holiday, give Altea a miss. The climb up the old part of the town along steep slopes and stepped streets opens up a wide horizon and extends along the whole area of La Marina. The silhouette of the Pe\u00f1on de Ifach on one side and the Hedadin ridge on the other frame the view of the sea.<\/p>\n
Eight kilometres from Altea, heading inland, is Polop, a small town surrounded by gardens and pine groves, highly recommended for those seeking tranquility and cool summer nights.<\/p>\n
As with most cities in the region, traditional rice dishes are what you will most often see on Spanish menus. For international cuisine, Benidorm is just a short drive away. Altea enjoys a privileged location and an excellent mild climate with average year-round temperatures of 18-20\u00b0C.<\/p>\n