What to do in Altea
Plans, activities and things to see in Altea
Altea
About 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 oli...
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.