Areas
Altea
A whitewashed artist haven on the Costa Blanca — cobbled old town, international community and the highest property prices outside Marbella.
Altea is the Costa Blanca's best-known artist and bohemian enclave. Its historic centre — a maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and the iconic blue-and-white domed church of La Mare de Déu del Consol — sits above a palm-lined seafront promenade that feels more Mediterranean than tourist.
The town divides into two distinct worlds: the old town ( _Casc Antic_) with galleries and independent restaurants, and the modern seafront and Altea Hills with its luxury villas and international residents. For British relocation planners, Altea offers a more refined, less brash alternative to nearby Benidorm.
The trade-off is clear: higher prices, fewer services than larger towns, and a dependence on a car or the TRAM for anything beyond local shopping. This is not a budget relocation spot — it is a lifestyle choice.
Who this town suits
Established international community, mild microclimate (protected by Serra de Bèrnia), exceptional dining, relaxed pace.
Real artist colony, galleries, workshops, Miguel Hernández University Fine Arts campus.
Strong summer rental demand, property holds value, easy airport access.
Good broadband, quiet environment, fewer co-working spaces than Alicante city.
Safe, small-town feel. Limited English-medium school options — nearest in Benidorm or Alicante.
Geography and access
- • Coastal town in northern Alicante province, between Benidorm and Calp.
- • Approximately 55 km north of Alicante city and 10 km south of Benidorm.
- • Alicante–Elche Airport: ~55 km (40 min drive). Valencia Airport: ~130 km.
- • TRAM (Tramvia de la Marina): connects to Alicante and Dénia. Line 9 stops at Altea.
- • Road: N-332 and AP-7 motorway.
Local services
Healthcare
Local health centre (Centro de Salud). Hospital Marina Salud Benidorm or Hospital Universitario de Alicante for major care.
Schools
Public Spanish/Valencian schools. Private international schools in Benidorm (10 km) or Alicante (55 km).
Shopping
Boutique shops, galleries, local markets, supermarkets. Larger retail in Benidorm.
Admin
Padrón at Altea town hall. NIE/TIE via National Police in Alicante or Benidorm.
British community
Established but not dominant. Altea attracts a mixed international crowd — British, German, Dutch, French and a notable Russian-speaking community. English is spoken in many businesses but the town retains a strong Spanish and Valencian character. Social life revolves around cafes, galleries and the seafront rather than expat clubs.
Property and rental signal
Local admin notes
- • Padrón: Register at Altea town hall (Ayuntamiento de Altea).
- • NIE/TIE: National Police in Alicante or Benidorm.
- • Healthcare: Register at local health centre after padrón. Hospital Marina Salud in Benidorm for private care.
- • Tourist rental: VT licence required under Valencian law.
- • Language: Spanish and Valencian in administration. English widely spoken in commerce.
Important notes and caveats
- • Population: 24,592 (INE, January 2025). Foreign residents: ~25-30%.
- • British nationals: Estimated 500–800 (not confirmed by latest municipal padrón).
- • Property: General market signal, not specific listings. Premium segment dominates.
- • Tourist rental: VT licence required under Valencian Community law.
- • Costa Bridge offers remote preparation support. No local office or physical coverage.
Nearby towns you may also like
[[Benidorm]]
~10 km north
Full services, international schools, nightlife, hospital. High-rise resort atmosphere.
[[Calp]]
~12 km south
Iconic rock, slightly more affordable, larger marina, similar climate.
[[Moraira]]
~18 km south
Even more exclusive, higher property prices, affluent international community.
[[Dénia]]
~35 km north
Port city, ferry to Balearics, gastronomy, more services.
Last updated: 2026-07-05