Thinking about moving to Altea? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Altea.
Altea, a picturesque town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is a place that many people dream of calling home. With its charming old town, stunning coastline, and relaxed lifestyle, it’s easy to see why. But like any place, living in Altea has its pros and cons. In this article, we’ll delve into both sides of the coin, giving you a comprehensive view of what life in Altea is really like.
Pros of Living in Altea
One of the biggest draws of Altea is undoubtedly its natural beauty. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, the town offers breathtaking views at every turn. The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean are a constant backdrop, while the Sierra de Bernia mountains provide a stunning contrast. The town itself is equally charming, with its whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and iconic blue-domed church.
Another major advantage of living in Altea is the climate. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and mild temperatures even in winter, it’s a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Whether you enjoy swimming, hiking, or simply soaking up the sun on one of Altea’s many beaches, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so.
Altea also boasts a rich cultural scene. The town is home to a thriving community of artists, and you’ll find numerous galleries and studios dotted around the old town. In addition, Altea hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, such as the Fiestas de San Pedro, a traditional festival that includes a procession of boats and a spectacular fireworks display.
For those interested in volunteering, Altea offers several opportunities. The local Red Cross branch, for example, is always looking for volunteers to help with their various projects. There’s also the Altea Animal Shelter, where you can help care for abandoned pets and assist with their adoption process.
Finally, one of the biggest pros of living in Altea is the relaxed lifestyle. The pace of life here is slow and laid-back, with a strong emphasis on enjoying the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, enjoying a long lunch in a beachside restaurant, or simply watching the world go by from a café terrace, life in Altea is all about taking the time to relax and enjoy.
Cons of Living in Altea, Spain
While Altea has many advantages, it’s not without its drawbacks. One of the main cons is the cost of living. While it’s not the most expensive place in Spain, it’s certainly not the cheapest either. Property prices are relatively high, especially for seafront properties, and the cost of groceries, dining out, and other everyday expenses can add up.
Another potential downside is the language barrier. While many locals speak English, especially in the tourism industry, you’ll find that Spanish is the main language spoken in Altea. If you don’t speak Spanish, this can make everyday tasks like shopping or dealing with bureaucracy more challenging.
While Altea’s relaxed pace of life is one of its main attractions, it can also be a disadvantage. If you’re used to a fast-paced, bustling city life, you might find Altea’s slow pace frustrating. Shops often close for several hours in the afternoon for siesta, and many businesses also close for several weeks in August for vacation.
Another potential con is the lack of job opportunities. Altea’s economy is largely based on tourism, which means that job opportunities can be seasonal and often low-paying. If you’re planning on working in Altea, it’s worth bearing this in mind.
Finally, while Altea’s natural beauty is undeniable, it’s worth noting that it can get crowded during the peak tourist season. The town’s population can more than double in the summer months, which can lead to crowded beaches and longer waits at restaurants and attractions. If you value peace and quiet, this is something to consider.
In conclusion, Altea is a beautiful and charming place to live, with a relaxed lifestyle and stunning natural surroundings. However, it’s not without its drawbacks, and it’s important to consider both the pros and cons before deciding to make it your home.
