Altea Property Guide 2026: Luxury Villas & Homes Costa Blanca

Why Altea is Costa Blanca's Most Desirable Address

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, Altea has earned its reputation as the artistic heart of Costa Blanca. With its iconic blue-domed church, whitewashed old town, and thriving international community, this charming town offers a unique blend of traditional Spanish character and cosmopolitan sophistication that sets it apart from neighboring resort destinations.

For property buyers seeking more than just a holiday home, Altea delivers an authentic Mediterranean lifestyle combined with strong investment fundamentals. The town's protected old quarter, world-class dining scene, and proximity to both Alicante and Valencia airports make it particularly attractive to discerning buyers from across Europe.

Altea's Prime Neighborhoods

Altea la Vella (Old Town)

The historic heart of Altea features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional townhouses, and that famous church dome visible from miles around. Properties here range from renovated village houses to boutique apartments, typically priced between €220,000 and €650,000. The old town offers walkable access to restaurants, galleries, and the seafront promenade.

Altea Hills

This prestigious gated community represents the pinnacle of Costa Blanca luxury living. Set in the hills above the town, Altea Hills offers 24-hour security, a private beach club, tennis courts, and stunning panoramic views. Villas here command prices from €1.5 million to €4.5 million, attracting an international clientele seeking privacy and exclusivity. Our featured Villa AH130 at €2,450,000 exemplifies the quality available, featuring a 12kW solar system, spa facilities, and uninterrupted sea views.

Sierra Altea

For buyers seeking space and tranquility, the Sierra Altea foothills offer larger plots with mountain and sea views at more accessible price points. Properties like Villa Altea Alex 840 at €840,000 showcase what's possible: a 412m² villa on 1,300m² of land with saltwater pool and views of both the Mediterranean and Sierra Bernia mountains.

Mascarat

This coastal area between Altea and Calpe offers beachfront apartments and villas with direct sea access. The marina provides mooring facilities, and the dramatic cliff scenery attracts buyers seeking a more active coastal lifestyle.

Cap Negret & La Olla

These quieter residential areas offer excellent value with good sea views. Cap Negret is known for its rocky coves and crystal-clear waters, while La Olla provides easy access to Altea's main beach. Prices range from €350,000 to €1.2 million for quality villas.

Property Prices in Altea 2025-2026

The Altea property market has shown consistent growth, with average prices reaching €3,400/m² for quality properties in 2025. Here's what buyers can expect across different segments:

Apartments in central Altea typically range from €160,000 to €450,000, depending on size, condition, and views. Renovated townhouses in the old quarter command €350,000 to €750,000. Modern villas with sea views start around €650,000, while premium properties in Altea Hills and similar locations range from €1.5 million to €4.5 million.

2026 Market Forecast:

• Premium segment (Altea Hills, sea-view villas): +8-10% appreciation
• Mid-range (townhouses, apartments): +5-7% appreciation
• Average price forecast: €3,600-€3,800/m² by end of 2026
• Rental yields: 6-8% for quality properties

The Altea Lifestyle

Gastronomy and Culture

Altea punches well above its weight in culinary terms. The town hosts over 100 restaurants, from traditional Spanish tapas bars to international fine dining. The weekly Tuesday market, art galleries, and regular cultural events create a vibrant social calendar. Notable venues include Casa Vital for fine dining and El Cantó for authentic tapas.

Beaches and Recreation

While Altea's beaches feature the characteristic Costa Blanca pebbles rather than sand, they're clean, well-maintained, and less crowded than neighboring resorts. L'Olla beach is the main town beach, while Playa Cap Negret offers more seclusion. Water sports, hiking in the Sierra Bernia, and golf at nearby courses (Villaitana, Don Cayo) provide year-round recreational options.

Healthcare and Services

The town offers excellent healthcare facilities, including the Marina Baixa Hospital (15-minute drive) and numerous private clinics with English-speaking staff. International schools in the broader Costa Blanca region (Lady Elizabeth, Xabia International) cater to expatriate families.

Cost of Living in Altea

Altea offers a comfortable lifestyle at reasonable costs compared to Northern Europe:

• Restaurant meal: €12-20 per person (mid-range)
• Monthly utilities: €100-180 (electricity, water, gas)
• Internet: €35-50/month (fiber optic available)
• Community fees: €50-200/month (urbanizations)
• IBI (property tax): 0.5-0.9% of cadastral value annually
• Private healthcare: €100-200/month per person

Overall, a couple can live comfortably in Altea on €2,500-3,500/month including housing costs.

Buying Property in Altea: The Process

1. Get your NIE: Required tax identification number for all property transactions. Apply at Spanish consulate or local police station (2-4 weeks).
2. Open Spanish bank account: Needed for deposits, mortgage payments, utilities. Most banks require NIE and proof of address.
3. Engage a lawyer: Independent legal representation (1-2% of purchase price) to verify ownership, check debts, review contracts.
4. Property search: Work with local agents who know Altea's neighborhoods. Contact Casa Rica Estate for curated selections.
5. Make an offer: Reservation contract (€5,000-€10,000) removes property from market.
6. Sign Arras contract: Private contract with 10% deposit. Buyer loses deposit if they withdraw; seller pays double if they withdraw.
7. Complete at Notary: Sign Escritura Pública, pay balance, receive keys. Register at Land Registry.

Total timeline: 6-12 weeks from offer to completion.

Investment Potential

Altea's property market offers compelling investment characteristics in 2025-2026:

• Rental yields: 6-8% gross for quality villas
• Peak season rates: €2,500-€8,000 per week (sea-view villas)
• Occupancy: 70-85% during April-October
• Capital appreciation: 6-10% annually in premium areas

The town's year-round international community also supports long-term rental opportunities, with monthly rates of €1,200-€3,000 for quality properties.

Featured Altea Properties

Villa AH130 - €2,450,000

This exceptional villa in Altea Hills combines classical Mediterranean architecture with cutting-edge sustainability. The 650m² property features 4 en-suite bedrooms, a 12kW Growatt solar system with battery storage, spa, sauna, gym, and wine cellar. South-facing terraces ensure all-day sun, while the gated community provides security and exclusivity.

Villa Altea Alex 840 - €840,000

Positioned in the tranquil foothills with views of both sea and mountains, this 412m² villa offers exceptional value. Three en-suite bedrooms, saltwater pool, underfloor heating, and German Rehau windows with impact-resistant glass. The 1,300m² plot provides privacy and space for outdoor living.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average property price in Altea?

Average prices in Altea reach approximately €3,400/m² for quality properties in 2025, forecast to rise to €3,600-€3,800/m² by end of 2026. Apartments start around €160,000, while luxury villas range from €850,000 to €4.5 million depending on location and specifications.

Is Altea a good investment location?

Yes, Altea offers strong investment fundamentals including 6-8% rental yields, consistent 6-10% annual appreciation in the premium segment, and limited new supply protecting values. The town's protected status and international appeal support long-term growth.

What are the best neighborhoods in Altea for luxury properties?

Altea Hills offers the highest-end properties with 24-hour security and sea views. Sierra Altea provides larger plots with mountain views at more accessible prices. Cap Negret and La Olla offer good value with quality sea views.

How far is Altea from Alicante Airport?

Altea is approximately 60km from Alicante-Elche Airport, around 45 minutes by car via the AP-7 motorway. Valencia Airport is about 90 minutes north, offering additional flight connections.

Can foreigners buy property in Altea?

Yes, there are no restrictions on foreign property ownership in Spain. EU and non-EU citizens can purchase freely. The process requires an NIE (tax identification number), which can be obtained at Spanish consulates or police stations.

What are the annual costs of owning property in Altea?

Annual ownership costs include IBI (property tax, 0.5-0.9% of cadastral value), community fees (€600-2,400/year for urbanizations), non-resident income tax (if applicable), and maintenance. Budget €3,000-€8,000 annually depending on property type.

Is Altea suitable for year-round living?

Absolutely. Altea has a thriving year-round international community, excellent healthcare facilities, international schools, and mild winters (12-18°C). Many residents are retirees and remote workers from UK, Belgium, Netherlands, and Germany.

What rental income can I expect from an Altea property?

Sea-view villas can command €2,500-€8,000 per week in peak season (July-August), with €1,500-€3,500 in shoulder season. Annual gross yields typically range 6-8% for well-located properties with pools and modern amenities.

Ready to explore Altea's finest properties? Contact Casa Rica Estate for expert guidance on finding your perfect Mediterranean home.