Let’s face it, Benidorm isn’t everybody’s cup of tea.
Despite attracting a whopping 2.7 million tourists last year, many Brits have ruled out the infamous hotspot due to its oversaturation of English fry-ups, stag dos, and sun burnt beer bellies.
However, less than 10km from the wid party town lies a tranquil city that many tourists miss completely.
Nestled between mountains and sea and dripping with rich history, Alltea is often touted as the ‘Santorini of Spain’ – attracting swathes of laid-back travellers wanting to explore the old town or relax on the beach without dealing with a group of lads dressed as the Spice Girls.
Travel account Benidorm Hidden Gems, which has amassed a whopping 25,000 followers, says Altea, in Costa Blanca, needs to be on your bucket list.
“This is probably my favourite little excursion to do from Benidorm — and Altea is only 15 mins away!” the account said in a recent video.
“Altea’s beachfront has the MOST stunning sea view, you truly have to see the blue to believe it for yourself!!
“After you’re done exploring the beautiful beach, head for Altea’s Old Town. It’s some climb by foot, but [is] so worth it for the view and a peek inside the Nostra Senyora del Consol church right at the top!”
Viewers flocked to the comments section to share the destination with their friends and family, with many vowing to visit the hotspot themselves. “Altea is super beautiful,” raved one user.
Another agreed, commenting: “It’s a great place – my best holidays as a [young] boy,” while a third added: “I hope I will live there soon.”
Altea is 9.8km from Benidorm and takes just 14 minutes by car if there is no traffic, while Alicante airport is around a 45-minute drive.