We have decided to extend our house search a little more south of Valencia. Yes, sadly, we are still looking and after much thought we are in two minds whether we would like to stay around the city of Valencia or to venture further down as we have also heard good things about this particular area.

Two Sundays ago, we decided to start our search in this charming town of Altea. Altea is a town in the Valencian Community, located in the province of Alicante, in the district of Marina Baja. It is located on the Costa Blanca Mediterranean Sea, north of Benidorm and south of Calpe.

We also heard that it’s a good spot to do some snorkeling because of the clear waters and hidden coves. You would never guess this pretty and quiet, but growing little seaside town with amazing mountain ranges and beaches is only 10 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Benidorm.

Altea beach itself is mostly pebbles mixed with sand, very clean, clear and calm, ideal for water sports and of course snorkelling which my boys love! This was our first visit so we didn’t get to see the whole town and stayed mostly by the seafront. But so far we were impressed with its tranquil and pleasant surroundings.

My husband and I have always loved being by the beach, and during the holidays we often head to the seaside with the kids. Whilst living in the UK, we often thought about settling somewhere by the coast. Now that we’ve chosen Spain to be our home, it would be crazy not to consider the small seaside towns. We have already visited a few and have loved several of them.

Even though the town is becoming more and more popular with tourists and expats over the years, Altea still retains its old Spanish charm with beautiful white-washed houses clustered around the hills, cobbled streets and narrow medieval walkways.

Having always loved the mountains and the sea, Altea seem to have ticked all the boxes. As you walk through the steep streets you have the view of the hills that surround the town, and as you walk down, you have the view of the crystal blue sea just below. The best of everything in one place.

Of course now, our home search have become a little more complicated. We have fallen in love with this part of Valencia, and will continue to check out some more places along this part of the coast, and who knows a home by the sea might just be the right place for us. :) You can also check out more information and images of Altea @ Visit Altea Facebook or Visit Altea Website.

Credit: Style Lovely