The old town of Altea or the so-called casco antiguo is the perfect setting for a relaxing evening out. Don't wait until dark, but head to Old Altea as early as late afternoon. The blue domes of the iconic little church capture the imagination even more than usual during the so-called "golden hour" ... just before the sun sets.
Arriving on time also means easier parking. At the so-called 'Palau Centre d'arts Altea' or in the surrounding streets you can park your car quite easily and for free. For those who love culture it is also worthwhile to look up the program of cultural center Palau online. There are regularly organized beautiful performances, and you do not need to know Spanish for dance or opera. The prim and lively Carrer Sant Miguel, full of original boutiques and beautiful art galleries leads from the Palau to the iconic church. I always do some original find here and rarely come home empty-handed. So it may well take you a while before you finally get to the church! ...
One of my personal favorites is the studio of Titi Borrás, a talented ceramic artist and a particularly warm, welcoming lady. Those looking for an authentic, handmade keepsake that exudes pure Mediterranean charm are sure to find something among the many jars, bowls, gems and beautiful table decoration-fishes that Titi makes with love and attention to detail. Another unique store is 'La Buena Juanita', women's clothing in a particularly distinctive style, with separate collections in small editions, where you can often score unique pieces, which by the way are all handmade in Spain.
Despite the many nice addresses in the Carrer San Miguel, try to arrive at the vantage point or so-called"mirador" before sunset. This is an obligatory (photo) stop, because the view over the bay of Altea enchants time after time. Both during the summer months and during the Christmas vacations you can find original stalls selling beautiful local crafts in the large square by the church. Then treat yourself to an "Agua de Valencia," a local aperitif, which literally translated means Valencian water. This refreshing drink based on cava and orange juice has nothing to do with water at all and usually goes down smoothly. You are guaranteed to be happy by the time you sit down for dinner, but be warned; if you have too much of it, you will be able to reminisce the next day ... with a severe hangover.
There are restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets in Altea, and there is plenty of atmosphere even after dinner. Most stores stay open until about midnight during the high season. So instead of dessert at restaurants, you can opt for ice cream while you continue exploring. In my opinion, the Spanish pastry chef of D'Sabors, located right next to the church, sells the best ice cream in Altea. If you don't want to go home just yet, you can finish in one of Altea's most atmospheric cocktail bars with a drink 'al fresco'. Altearte is all boho vibes, with wobbly tables lining the steps of the narrow street where the bar is located. Although the mojitos are the specialty of the house, the Aperol Spritz is not to be missed either, and it doesn't usually end with just one drink here.
I am already looking forward to hear about your Altea experiences!
