Altea, set on a hill overlooking the coastline, has resisted the strains of mass tourist development and remains a charming town with great character. It's considered by many to be the most beautiful resort on this coast, set against the Sierra de Bernia mountains, and the old town is particularly picturesque with its white houses, blue-domed church and blossom. The main square, besides the imposing church, has a range of pleasant bars and restaurants and Altea has a lively cultural scene, famed for its arts and crafts since the 1950s when the first colony of artists moved in. There is also a new concert hall with a diverse calendar of events and a craft market throughout summer in the church courtyard in the old town.

Altea's coastline is also an important feature of local life, with a yacht club and a sports marina which aspires to be the best in the Med. Next door is the Don Cayo Golf Course.

The beaches offer water sports or there are secluded coves for those in search of privacy.

Altea is also on the doorstep of the wine-growing Jalón Valley, when you fancy a trip and a tipple.

Within walking distance of Altea's marina there are new developments of apartments and duplexes with landscaped communal gardens and swimming pools. Pueblo Mascarat is one example, where apartments within a short walk of the beach start at £150,000. Balcón de Altea is a similar development and Mirador Bahía, 5 minutes from the beach and marina. Altea Hills is an area that is seeing a lot of development, including the Girasoles urbanisation with apartments from £213,000. Resale semi-detached houses in this area, with views of the coast, cost from about £220,000.

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