Altea, out of season

It's mid January, a little overcast, it might rain, but then again, it probably won't. With the arrival of the cooler weather, a visit to the beach might not feature in everyone's plans, but it should.

Altea is a small white fishing village located in between the bigger and better known Benidorm and Calpe. (It also happens to be the place I call home)! And it is one of the many destinations that receives visitors throughout the year. Known for its legendary old town and its white houses, visiting this captivating municipality in the low season can be the perfect winter getaway. The tranquility that is experienced during these months and the drop in prices outside the summer period, makes it a suitable for all tastes. Stroll along the sea as if the summer had not come to an end, eat tasty rice or end the day with a delicious ice cream. 

© Alamy

The whole of the Valencian Community is synonymous with rice and finding a good paella is not difficult -  my personal recommendation is the Restaurant Juan Abril, located on the seafront (Paseo Mediterraneo 14). With the beautiful views of the sea, the menu offers various types of paella, fresh seafood and much more. Altea also has some great culinary choices for a more cosmopolitan audience. Xef Pirata (Calle del Ángel, 22) is one of Altea's coolest gastrobars to visit, and in the summer, it can be difficult to get a table, so much better to visit now during the somewhat quieter months. Hamburgers and avant-garde tapas are on offer here, and it's always buzzing. For a romantic dinner, Oustau (Calle Mayor, 5) in the old town is a cosy a restaurant with eclectic decoration, but at the same time intimate to taste the Mediterranean cuisine in all its essence, but with a modern nod.

© Xef Pirata

To finish an evening out, an ice cream perhaps at Qvu Helado (Calle Mayor 19), or perhaps a cocktail in the wonderful church square right in the heart of the old town, where there are several bars including La Mascarada (Plaza de la Iglesia, 8). 

© Qvo Helado Artesano

Without a doubt, you can certainly eat and drink well in Altea, but there is so much more to do too. With the mild daytime temperatures between 15º and 20º Centigrade there is plenty of walking, whether it be the green route towards the beach at L'Olla and towards Villa Gadea. Or there is the Sierra de Bernia which has several walking routes for various levels of walker. Or you can chill out and totally disconnect at the hidden Jardín de los Sentidos (Partida de la Olla, 42), a rustic location where you can take an afternoon tea (or a beer) in a botanical oasis, though it is closed from 15th December until 31st January). And to burn some energy, there are the water sports, the stand up paddle, the kayaking, the yachting, all in the Campomanes Port (Mascarat), or join me for a run along the seafront! See you there.

If Altea appeals as a first or second home location, contact us or take a look at our webpage - www.ultimatehomes-spain.com - which we keep updated on a daily basis and we're always adding new property realistically priced for sale. Or drop us a line with an idea of what would be your dream property, I'm sure we can help you find what you are looking for.

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