Altea is without doubt the jewel in the Mediterranean crown and is located in the Spanish region of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. This is one of the most charming towns to be found on Spain's "White Coast". If you want all night discos and the bright city lights give Altea a miss, this town is a haven for the more discerning resident or tourist who will be captivated by its medieval cobbled streets, its picture book old quarter and the delights of its palm-fringed seafront esplanade.

Altea is the prettiest town on this stretch of the Costa Blanca with its stylish marina, lively seafront promenade and its beautiful old centre high above the glittering Meditarranean below. From here there are spectacular views towards El Peñon de Ifach in Calpe to the north and Benidorm's skyscrapers to the south.

Down at the seafront in Altea there's no shortage of seafood restaurants serving mainly local rice based dishes such as paella and 'arroz a la banda'. The Hotel San Miguel (c/Mar, 65) is a popular choice with a nice terrace overlooking the sea. The absence of British pubs is a pleasant change but if you prefer a bacon sandwich or the like head for Bar Alaska (c/San Pere, 34) on the front which serves up traditional British meals from a stylish café.

Playa de la Roda is the main beach in Altea. It's quite narrow with pebbles which helps explain why Altea has avoided the worst of mass tourism. Views across towards Calpe and the Sierra Helada (a rocky outcrop separating Altea from Benidorm) are spectacular.

It's not surprising that this picturesque village of Altea has long been a popular haunt for artists. Cross the main N332 Valencia road and take a wander through the winding, whitewashed streets as far as the Placa L'Esglesia right at the top. Here you'll find the blue domed village church of Nuestra Senora del Consuelo which is well worth going inside to see.

On the way up the hill you'll see the occasional small art gallery or craft shop depending on which route you take then the street heading down from the main square has all kinds of arty shops. In fact, if you're in Altea during the summer months there's an art market in the square every evening. If shopping isn't on the agenda take a seat at Bar Plaza in this same square and enjoy some mellow blues or jazz music which befits this laid back location.