7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Altea

Altea, a picturesque coastal town in Spain, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its charming old town, pebbled beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, Altea offers a serene environment for productivity. However, even the most dedicated remote workers need a break, and the region around Altea is ripe with destinations for exciting weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven places to explore when you need to recharge and experience new adventures.

Valencia

As the third-largest city in Spain, Valencia is a bustling metropolis that combines ancient architecture with modern innovation. It's a perfect weekend destination for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant urban atmosphere. Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, wander through the historic Barrio del Carmen, or relax on the city's vast beaches. Valencia is also famous for its paella, so be sure to indulge in this local culinary delight.

How to Get There: Valencia is easily accessible from Altea by car or train. The journey by car takes approximately 1.5 hours via the AP-7 motorway, while trains from Altea to Valencia can take around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Turia Gardens, a lush park created in the old riverbed of the Turia River, which offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the Caro Hotel, which boasts a unique blend of historical features and modern design. If you prefer beachfront accommodation, the Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort offers stunning sea views and exceptional amenities.

Where to Eat: La Pepica is a renowned beachfront restaurant that has been serving delicious paella since 1898. For a more contemporary dining experience, try Canalla Bistro by Ricard Camarena, which offers an eclectic mix of global flavors.

Guadalest

Perched on a mountaintop, the small village of Guadalest offers breathtaking views and a step back in time. This hidden gem is known for its medieval castle, the Castell de Guadalest, and its numerous museums, including the quirky Miniatures Museum. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the old dungeons, and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley and reservoir.

How to Get There: Guadalest is about a 45-minute drive from Altea. The most convenient way to visit is by car, as public transport options are limited.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Orduna House, a historic building that now serves as a museum showcasing the lifestyle of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Where to Stay: The Cases Noves boutique hotel offers a cozy stay with modern comforts and stunning views of the valley. For a more rustic experience, consider the rural apartments at El Tossal.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Mora is a local favorite, offering traditional Spanish dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a terrace with a view.

Calpe

Calpe is a coastal town known for its iconic rock formation, Peñón de Ifach, which towers over the Mediterranean Sea. A hike to the top provides spectacular views, and the town's two main beaches, Playa de la Fossa and Playa del Arenal-Bol, are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Calpe's old town, with its narrow streets and traditional plazas, is also worth exploring.

How to Get There: Calpe is a short 20-minute drive from Altea. You can also take a direct bus, which takes about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the salt flats, Las Salinas, located right in the heart of Calpe, where you can often see flamingos and other birdlife.

Where to Stay: The Gran Hotel Sol y Mar is an adults-only hotel with an infinity pool and beachfront location. For a more intimate setting, La Posada del Mar offers charming accommodations in the old town.

Where to Eat: Enjoy seafood with a view at Restaurante Abiss, located on the beachfront. For a taste of authentic Spanish tapas, head to La Viña de Calpe in the old town.

Tabarca Island

Tabarca Island is the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community and is a marine reserve known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying fresh seafood. The island's small town is characterized by its well-preserved 18th-century walls and quaint houses.

How to Get There: To reach Tabarca Island, take a bus or drive to the city of Alicante, which is about an hour from Altea, and then catch a ferry to the island.

Travel Tip: Visit the island's museum, located in the former governor's house, to learn about Tabarca's history as a refuge for Barbary pirates and later as a fishing community.

Where to Stay: Accommodations on Tabarca are limited, but the boutique Hotel Boutique Isla de Tabarca offers comfortable rooms with a touch of history.

Where to Eat: Try Restaurante Gloria for a selection of fresh fish and traditional paella, often regarded as some of the best in the area.

Sierra de Bernia

For those seeking a more rugged and less-traveled destination, the Sierra de Bernia mountain range is a natural paradise. Hikers and nature enthusiasts will love the challenging trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the chance to explore the ruins of the 16th-century Fort of Bernia. The area is also popular for rock climbing and bird watching.

How to Get There: The Sierra de Bernia is best accessed by car, with the journey from Altea taking around 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Be sure to find the Forat de Bernia, a natural tunnel through the mountain that leads to incredible views on the other side.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations directly in the Sierra de Bernia, but nearby towns like Xaló offer rural hotels such as Casa Almar.

Where to Eat: After a day of hiking, enjoy a hearty meal at Restaurante Casa Cantó in Benissa, known for its traditional mountain cuisine.

Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa, or La Vila Joiosa, is a coastal town famous for its brightly colored houses and chocolate industry. Take a tour of the Valor Chocolate Museum to learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some treats. The town's long sandy beach, Playa Centro, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, and the charming old town offers a glimpse into the area's rich history.

How to Get There: Villajoyosa is a 30-minute drive from Altea. Alternatively, you can take the TRAM from Altea, which takes about an hour.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Moors and Christians festival in July, a vibrant and colorful celebration of the town's history.

Where to Stay: Hotel Servigroup Montíboli is a luxurious cliff-top hotel with stunning views of the Mediterranean and two infinity pools.

Where to Eat: Tantalize your taste buds at T-Class, a beachfront restaurant that offers innovative dishes and a selection of fine wines.

Fuentes del Algar

The Fuentes del Algar is a series of waterfalls and natural pools hidden in the mountains near Altea. It's an idyllic spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. The surrounding botanical gardens and the environmental education center provide insight into the local flora and fauna.

How to Get There: The Fuentes del Algar is about a 30-minute drive from Altea. There is no direct public transport, so a car is the best option.

Travel Tip: Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky areas around the waterfalls and pools comfortably.

Where to Stay: The nearby town of Callosa d'en Sarrià offers rural accommodations like the Hotel Rural Almedia, which has a charming, rustic feel.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Les Fonts offers traditional Spanish cuisine with a view of the waterfalls, making for a memorable dining experience.