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There are three
distinct parts to Altea. The seafront, which has a long
promenade and fishing harbour. The town centre which is
separated from the seafront by the busy N332 and the picturesque
old town which starts on the outskirts of the modern section and winds
its way upwards to the main square at the top. The main square
features the impressive blue domed church of the virgin de consuelo. Altea
old town is now considered chic, this is reflected in the gourmet
restaurants,
expensive pottery shops and designer clothes
stores lining the narrow cobbled
streets. The old town is a haven for artists and the price of
the whitewashed houses have now spiraled upwards. Peeking
behind the rustic facade of many of the old houses will give a
glimpse of what can be achieved. The seafront area was renovated
about six years ago, there is a small beach area with children's
playground and plenty bars and restaurants lining the promenade. Many
of the newly renovated houses which have been recently purchased have
had the whole of the downstairs space knocked into
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one huge open plan
kitchen/lounge area. Some of these interiors are breathtaking,
featuring modern furniture, plasma displays and stainless steel
kitchens where instead, you thought you'd spot old Granny in her black
shawl knitting .
The proposed by-pass of the N332
will be very welcome if it ever arrives, this very busy section of
road cuts right through the heart of Altea and must be a
constant source of irritation for the local population.
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