From Alicante & Benidorm: Altea Old Town and Ortodox Church

Explore Altea’s Historic Streets and Cultural Landmarks in Just 3 Hours

This 3-hour tour from Alicante and Benidorm offers a deep dive into Altea’s enchanting old town, combining a private car ride with a relaxed walking exploration. The tour includes visits to both Orthodox and Catholic churches, providing a fascinating look at diverse religious cultures. It’s ideal for travelers interested in local history, architecture, and religious heritage.

What sets this experience apart is its combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural visits, and the chance to enjoy local shops and cafes. The tour is held at sunset or evening hours, allowing visitors to experience Altea’s lights and grandeur. While the walks involve some stone-paved, hilly streets requiring comfortable shoes, the guided insights make it a rich and memorable outing.

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Key Points

• Private car transportation ensures comfort and convenience for exploring Altea.
• Visits to Orthodox and Catholic churches highlight religious diversity in the region.
• The tour lasts 3 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive experience.
• Multiple pickup and drop-off points offer flexibility for travelers staying in Alicante or Benidorm.
• Guided walking tours of historic streets include stops at local shops and an authentic street cafe.
• Views of Altea’s sea and townscape from two viewpoints provide stunning photo opportunities.

Starting from Alicante & Benidorm: Convenient Pickup Locations

This tour departs from five pickup points, including Hotel La Estación, Meliá Alicante, and Hotel Boutique Calas de Alicante. Pickup arrangements are made the day before, with precise times and vehicle details shared via email. The group size remains manageable, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from the multi-lingual guide.

The drop-off options mirror the pickup points, making it easy to return to your accommodation after the tour. The transport is a private car, which adds a level of comfort throughout the journey.

Visiting the Orthodox Wooden Church of Archangel Michael

The Orthodox church, built in 2007 entirely with Russian materials and labor, stands out as a unique spiritual site in Altea. Constructed from wood and boasting distinctive architecture, it reflects the Russian Orthodox tradition. The guided tour of approximately 40 minutes provides insights into its design, construction, and cultural significance.

This church not only serves as a place of worship but also as an architectural statement of religious coexistence. It’s a powerful contrast to the Catholic church and offers a different perspective on faith and craftsmanship.

Exploring the Catholic Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo

The Church of Santa Maria del Consol is a notable historic building dating back to the early 17th century. The current structure was built at the end of the 19th century, after restorations in 1980, replacing earlier chapels like the Chapel of the Santísimo Cristo de Altea (constructed between 1854 and 1856).

Visitors walk through the imposing stone facade and interior, learning about its religious history and architectural evolution. The guided walk provides context about its origins, restorations, and cultural role in Altea’s community.

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Scenic Viewpoints Overlooking Altea and the Sea

The tour includes two viewpoints where travelers can admire panoramic vistas of Altea’s coastline, rooftops, and the Mediterranean Sea. These outdoor stops are perfect for photos and enjoying the twilight ambiance as the sun begins to set.

The views highlight the contrast between the historic old town with its whitewashed buildings and the expanding modern landscape. The elevated vantage points make for memorable moments, especially at dusk.

Walking Through Old Altea’s Stone-Paved Streets

The old town of Altea is characterized by narrow, stone-paved streets with uphill and downhill sections. These historic pathways are lined with local shops, art galleries, and craft stores, showcasing the region’s artisan traditions.

The group leader guides visitors through this charming maze, explaining local history and pointing out hidden corners. Expect a slow-paced walk that allows time for photo stops and window shopping at quaint boutiques.

Enjoying Local Shops and Authentic Street Cafe

A highlight of the tour is the opportunity to browse local stores, offering handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. After exploring, the group stops at an authentic street cafe for a refreshing drink or light snack.

This casual break provides a chance to soak in the atmosphere, observe local life, and appreciate the laid-back pace that makes Altea special. The cafe is typically situated in a picturesque spot, adding to the overall charm.

The Evening Atmosphere and Lighting of Altea

Since the tour is held at sunset or early evening, travelers experience Altea’s lights flickering on, creating a magical ambiance. The warm glow of street lamps enhances the historic architecture and sea views.

This timing allows for stunning photographs and an intimate view of the town’s romantic side. The gentle evening light makes the church facades and narrow streets particularly photogenic.

Practical Tips and Physical Considerations

The walks involve uneven, stone-paved streets with some uphill and downhill sections, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Since the streets are narrow and historic, expect cobblestone surfaces.

The tour is suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility, but those with difficulty walking may find some parts challenging. The group leader provides explanations in English, Russian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an intimate cultural exploration of Altea’s historic and spiritual sites. It suits those interested in architecture, religious diversity, and scenic views. The compact 3-hour format makes it an excellent addition to a day in the Alicante or Benidorm area.

Because the tour emphasizes local history and architecture over long walks or strenuous activity, it’s ideal for most ages and families. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience with ample opportunities for questions and photo stops.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Cultural Introduction to Altea

This 3-hour private tour offers a balanced mix of history, religion, and scenic beauty in Altea’s old town. The guided visits to the Orthodox and Catholic churches provide distinct perspectives on the town’s spiritual landscape. The views from the viewpoints and stroll through historic streets make for a memorable outing.

While the walks involve some uneven terrain, the comfortable transportation and engaging guides make it accessible and enjoyable. It’s particularly suited for those who want a focused, cultural glimpse of Altea without a full-day commitment. The combination of history, architecture, and local ambiance makes this tour a worthy addition to any itinerary in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What languages are available for the tour guide?
The tour guide speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation and visits.

Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the pickup is available at five locations, with drop-off at the same or nearby points, arranged the day before.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The walking involves stone-paved streets with some uphill sections, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

What is included in the visit to the Orthodox church?
The Orthodox wooden church is built entirely with Russian materials, and the guided tour explains its architecture and cultural importance.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

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