Altea: The Spanish Gem Rivalling Santorini with Mild Weather and Affordable Travel
Whitewashed buildings, panoramic coastal views, and romantic sunsets have long made Santorini a premier holiday destination. However, the Greek island faces severe overtourism challenges, with mayor Nikos Zorzos warning in 2024 that visitor numbers and construction booms could 'destroy' it. To mitigate strain, a tourist tax of €20 (approximately £16.80) was imposed on cruise ship passengers during peak summer, as around 800 ships docked annually in 2023 and 2024, unloading 1.3 million passengers who often congest narrow pathways and spend little locally. In hotspots like Oia, locals report that walking 600 metres can take 45 minutes in high season.
Seeking Alternatives: Enter Altea, the 'Santorini of Spain'
As a result, travellers are turning to lesser-known gems, with Altea in Spain's Costa Blanca region emerging as a standout dupe. Nicknamed the 'Santorini of Spain,' Altea features winding cobbled streets, blue-domed buildings, and sweeping sea views, offering a similar aesthetic at a fraction of the cost. Located south of Valencia and near Benidorm, its old town is lined with white-washed houses, boutique shops, and vibrant bougainvillaea, providing a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls and café stops.
What to See and Do in Altea
For those craving Santorini-style vistas, the climb to Altea's old town rewards with panoramic coastline views and spectacular sunsets. Key attractions include:
- Parroquia Nuestra Senora del Consuelo: A striking blue-domed church built between 1900 and 1910, offering free entry and featuring modernist frescoes and Baroque details.
- Playa de la Roda: A pebbled beach near the city centre with a lively promenade, ideal for swimming in August when sea temperatures reach 25°C.
- Portal Viejo Viewpoint: Provides stunning vistas over the town and sea.
- Casa Cervantes: A 16th-century manor house hosting exhibitions and cultural events.
Beyond the city, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Sierra de Bernia mountain trails or visit the tranquil Algar Waterfalls for picnics and swims.
Ideal Visiting Times and Climate
To avoid crowds, consider shoulder seasons: April temperatures can hit 21°C, while October sees highs of 24°C. In summer, August averages 31°C, perfect for beach days. Altea's culinary scene shines with rice dishes like paella, arròs amb fessols, and cocas a la llumà, a local specialty with sausages and vegetables.
Travel Logistics and Accessibility
Altea lacks an airport; the nearest is Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, about 70km away. From the UK, budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet offer round-trip flights from as low as £28 in April, with a 45-minute drive to Altea. It's also a 20-minute drive or 13-minute tram ride from Benidorm, making it perfect for day trips.
Overtourism Context in Spain
Spain itself grapples with overtourism, with protests in Mallorca and Barcelona, and Malaga implementing a three-year ban on new holiday rentals to curb overcrowding. Altea remains a quieter alternative, praised by travellers on social media for its beauty and relaxation.
In summary, Altea offers a budget-friendly, less crowded escape with Santorini-like charm, mild April weather, and affordable flights, positioning it as a top choice for savvy holidaymakers.
