Excursion to Guadalest, Altea and entrance to the Fuentes del Algar

Exploring Alicante’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Look at the Guadalest, Altea, and Fuentes del Algar Tour

If you’re visiting the Alicante region and want to see some of its most captivating sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided tour offers a well-organized way to experience three of the Valencian Community’s jewels. It’s designed for those who appreciate authentic towns, scenic vistas, and natural beauty, all within a manageable day trip.

What we love about this tour is its balance: you get ample time to explore each destination, not just a hurried glance, and the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides who add context and stories to each stop. The value for the price — about $43.79 per person — is quite impressive considering the variety, including entrance to the Fuentes del Algar springs.

One potential consideration is the physical activity involved—there are some inclines and steps, especially at the waterfalls, which might challenge travelers with reduced mobility. Still, for most, the experience offers a rewarding glimpse of Spain’s beautiful inland and coastal scenery.

This tour suits travelers who love picturesque villages, natural landscapes, and want a taste of authentic local culture without spending hours organizing transport and schedules. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided insights mixed with free time to wander or relax.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Guadalest, Altea, and Fuentes del Algar with a single booking.
• Balanced schedule with enough time in each location for exploration and relaxation.
• Knowledgeable bilingual guides offering interesting stories and local insights.
• Excellent value for the price, with free access to several attractions and included transportation.
• Scenic vistas and authentic towns perfect for photography, shopping, and culture.
• Natural pools and waterfalls at Fuentes del Algar ideal for cooling off and enjoying the outdoors.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting from Alicante or Benidorm

The journey begins with a comfortable transfer, either from Alicante or Benidorm, depending on your preference. Travel time is about 30 minutes to Altea, which is a manageable start to the day. The group size caps at 54 travelers, ensuring a lively but not crowded experience, and the transportation is included, removing the stress of finding your own way.

First Stop: Altea’s Old Town

The tour’s first highlight is Altea, renowned for its charm and Mediterranean character. We loved the way the guide led us through the cobbled streets, where whitewashed houses with flower-decorated balconies seem to tumble down the hillside. The Consuelo Church with its distinctive blue-tiled dome is visible from afar and adds a picturesque touch to the skyline.

Most reviews praise Altea’s visual appeal and the atmosphere of tranquility. You’ll have about 30 minutes to wander on your own—time enough to snap photos, browse local shops, or grab a quick coffee. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy an hour of free time for lunch or a relaxed walk along the waterfront. This freedom is a big plus, as it allows you to sample a local dish or simply soak up the seaside vibe.

Guadalest: A Historic Mountain Fortress

Next, the tour heads to Guadalest, often listed among Spain’s most beautiful towns. Here, the focus is on history and breathtaking views. The Castillo de San José dominates the landscape, perched high above rugged mountains, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys.

We loved the way the guide explained Guadalest’s history, including stories about the Orduña family and its noble house — a detail that adds depth to the visit. The town itself is tiny but packed with interesting galleries and museums, such as the Casa Orduña and the Microgigante Museum. Reviews describe Guadalest as a “must-see” with “spectacular panoramic views” and point out that despite being small, it’s full of original galleries and local art.

You’ll have around 30 minutes to explore these attractions or simply enjoy the scenery. Then, the tour provides two hours of free time—long enough to revisit the museum, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a leisurely meal. Many travelers rave about the local shops and cafes, making Guadalest a perfect blend of history, art, and scenery.

Fuentes del Algar: Nature’s Refreshing Retreat

From Guadalest, it’s just a short drive to Fuentes del Algar, one of the most visually stunning natural spots in the Alicante area. The highlight here is the series of waterfalls and natural pools—ideal for cooling off after a day of sightseeing. We appreciated the entrance fee being included in the ticket, adding to the overall value.

You’ll spend about 1 hour 30 minutes exploring the site at your own pace. If you’re feeling energetic, you might visit the Arboretum or Estret de Sacos areas, or simply relax by the water. Many reviews mention how well-maintained and beautiful the pools are, and some even mention the chance to swim and dip in the crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Optional Extra Time at Fuentes del Algar

The tour allocates about an hour and 40 minutes for free time here, which many find ample for a quick swim, photo-taking, or just enjoying the peaceful outdoor setting. Be sure to bring water shoes or booties, as suggested, especially if you plan to go into the water or explore rocky areas.

Return and Additional Stops

On the way back, the group makes a brief stop in Benidorm for 30 minutes, which can be a quick peek or a chance to stretch. Finally, travelers are driven back to Alicante, where the tour concludes with some helpful tips for enjoying the city further.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Guides and Group Size

Most reviews point to the guides’ knowledge and their ability to weave in interesting stories about each location. Many travelers highlight that the guides spoke both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible to international visitors. The tour’s maximum of 54 travelers strikes a good balance, maintaining an intimate atmosphere without feeling cramped.

Price and Value

At around $43.79 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It includes round-trip transportation, entrance to Fuentes del Algar, and free time in key locations, making it a cost-effective way to see a variety of sights. With the added benefit of museum discounts and a knowledgeable guide, many reviews consider it a very fair deal.

Physical Considerations

Some reviews mention the inclines and steps involved, especially in Guadalest and at the waterfalls. They advise travelers with reduced mobility or lower fitness levels to consider this before booking. However, most report that the paths are manageable with proper footwear, and the scenic rewards are worth the small effort.

Food and Shopping

While food isn’t included, the free time in Altea and Guadalest is perfect for trying local cuisine or tapas. Many travelers enjoyed simply wandering and discovering charming cafes and shops, often mentioning that the local food is delicious and well worth sampling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for those who want to combine culture, history, and nature in one day without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It’s excellent for first-time visitors to the area who want a broad overview, or those who enjoy photography, outdoor activities, and discovering authentic towns.

If you’re physically fit and eager to explore at a relaxed pace, you’ll find this trip rewarding. However, if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider the physical demands, especially at the waterfalls.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a well-organized, value-packed day that covers a variety of landscapes and towns, this tour hits the mark. You’ll love the stunning views from Guadalest, the charming streets of Altea, and the refreshing natural pools of Fuentes del Algar. The knowledgeable guides, coupled with free time for personal exploration, make for an engaging experience.

It’s a great way to see the highlights of the Valencian Community in one go—especially if you don’t want to rent a car or navigate public transport yourself. For those who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and outdoor beauty, this tour can serve as a perfect introduction or a delightful add-on to your Alicante visit.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Alicante or Benidorm is included, making it easy and convenient to travel between locations.

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately 11 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Entrance to Fuentes del Algar is included in the ticket price, but other attractions like museums or galleries in Guadalest are free to explore.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers with moderate physical fitness will enjoy it, but it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues due to steps and inclines, especially at waterfalls and historic sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and water shoes or booties for swimming are recommended. You might also want to bring a camera and a hat for sun protection.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, the free time in Altea, Guadalest, and Fuentes del Algar allows for personal exploration and enjoying local food or shopping.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling for most travelers.

Is there any free time at Guadalest?
Yes, you get about two hours free for shopping, visiting museums, or simply wandering the town.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour operates year-round, but weather is generally more comfortable in spring and fall when you can enjoy the outdoor spots comfortably.

This tour provides a well-rounded day packed with scenic views, cultural insights, and natural beauty—perfect for travelers wanting a taste of everything the Alicante area offers.