Altea

Things to see and do in Altea and around

Plans, activities and things to see in Altea

10 Plans and activities · 2 What to see · 9 Destinations & areas

Altea

Discover Altea

Altea is an Alicante municipality in the Marina Baixa, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Bernia, whose summits exceed 1,100 metres. This contrast between coast and mountain concentrates a wide variety of outdoor activities within a few kilometres: canyoning in the Mascarat gorge, hiking routes climbing into the sierra and rock climbing on the limestone walls of the Peñón de Ifach in neighbouring Calpe. Mountain biking finds circuits with notable elevation changes among the olive and almond groves of the inland sierra. At sea, Altea's rocky coastline favours diving around the Illes Benidorm archipelago, with fish communities and posidonia seagrass that make this one of the best recreational diving destinations on the Valencian Mediterranean. Kayaking and sailing take place from the marina and surrounding coves, while sea kayak routes allow exploration of the rocky walls and semi-submerged caves that characterise the Marina Alta coastline.

Highlights

  • • Canyoning in the Mascarat gorge, one of the Mediterranean's gems
  • • Diving in the seabed around Illes Benidorm with posidonia and fish
  • • Rock climbing on the limestone walls of the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe
  • • Sea kayaking through caves and coves along the Altea coastline

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are ideal for canyoning, hiking and climbing with pleasant temperatures. June to September is the best time for diving and sea kayaking, with warmer water and better underwater visibility.

Practical tips

For canyoning in Mascarat, book with a local company: independent access can be dangerous and requires permits. For diving, book ahead in peak season as boat places fill up quickly.

Plans and activities in Altea

The best experiences and plans available in Altea

10

Activities near Altea

Experiences available in nearby towns

What to see in Altea

Hidden corners, places and points of interest you should not miss

Spots near Altea

Places to see a few kilometres from Altea, from the closest to the farthest

Frequently asked questions about Altea

Spots near Altea, from the closest to the farthest:

In Altea there are activities of these types:

Near Altea there are also activities of these types: Rock climbing, Segway, Via ferrata, Caving, Rappelling.

Altea has 4 kid-friendly activities.
The Mascarat gorge is a canyon descent with rappel sections on limestone walls dropping to the sea. The activity combines abseiling, jumps and swimming in natural pools. It is suitable for beginners with a certified guide and lasts around 4 hours.
The Illes Benidorm are the top destination, with frequent visibility of 15 to 20 m and well-preserved posidonia seagrass beds. From Altea you can embark with local dive centres offering discover dives, OWD and advanced sessions.
Yes. The Sierra Bernia circular route (GR-36) starts near Altea and climbs to the ridge at 1,129 m. The 15 km circuit with 900 m of ascent is rated medium to difficult and requires good physical fitness.

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