From Alicante: Guadalest, Altea & ticket in Algar Waterfalls

Planning a day trip from Alicante that balances charming towns, breathtaking scenery, and natural waterfalls? You’re in luck. This tour from BUENDIA TOURS promises a full 11 hours of sightseeing, exploring three of the most beloved spots in the Valencian Community: Guadalest, Altea, and the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on over a thousand reviews, this experience clearly resonates with travelers seeking a well-rounded, value-packed adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the seamless combination of historic charm and natural beauty—you get to walk cobbled streets in medieval Guadalest, enjoy panoramic views in Altea, and cool off with a dip in the waterfalls. Second, the expert guides and thoughtful pacing ensure you feel both informed and free to explore at your own pace.

One thing to consider: the itinerary packs in a lot, so if you prefer slow, unhurried days or have mobility issues, this might be a bit fast-paced. Still, for those wanting a taste of everything, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for travelers with a curiosity for history, scenic photography, or just a wish to see three diverse highlights in one go.

If you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with free time, and value good logistics without sacrificing authenticity, this trip is likely to suit you well.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines towns, history, and nature for a well-rounded experience
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and multilingual skills
• Great value: At $44, it offers a lot of sights and experiences
• Flexible free time: Ample moments at each stop to explore your interests
• Stunning views: Panoramic vistas, especially from Guadalest Castle and Altea viewpoints
• Natural beauty: Refreshing waterfalls with the option to swim (water shoes recommended)

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Day Trip

This tour offers a thorough introduction to some of Valencia’s most cherished spots, all wrapped into one 11-hour adventure. You’ll start early from Alicante, with a brief stop in Benidorm, before heading to your first stop: Altea. Known as a jewel of the Costa Blanca, this coastal town charms with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean. You’ll have about an hour of free time here—plenty of opportunity to snap photos, browse craft shops, or relax on the beach.

Next, a short drive takes you to Guadalest, one of Spain’s most picturesque medieval towns. Here, a guided walk introduces you to the history steeped into its fortress—Castillo de San José—which is perched dramatically among mountains. The town is small but packed with character, from its tiny museums like the Museum of Microminiatures and Salt & Pepper Shakers to the stunning views from the castle ramparts. You’ll have two hours of free exploration, enough to soak in the history, enjoy a meal, or visit a museum.

The last highlight is the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls, a protected wetland area where spectacular cascades tumble over rocks amid lush surroundings. Here, the opportunity to relax, take photos, or even swim makes this a memorable outdoor finish. In reviews, travelers praise the waterfalls’ biodiversity and natural beauty, with many enjoying a refreshing dip, especially if they remember to bring water shoes.

Throughout the day, the transportation is by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with a small group size—keeping the experience intimate and manageable. The tour is guided in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling at each stop.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Altea—The Coastal Charm (20-minute guided tour + 1-hour free time)

Altea is many travelers’ favorite part of this trip. With its whitewashed buildings, flower-decorated balconies, and narrow streets, it feels like a postcard. The guided segment introduces you to its history and notable viewpoints, but the real joy is wandering on your own. You might visit the quaint craft shops or relax on the beach. Many reviewers, like Julia, mention how beautiful and photogenic Altea is, calling it “like a little Santorini.” You’ll love the views from the viewpoints overlooking the sea.

Stop 2: Guadalest—Medieval Marvel (Guided tour 30 minutes + free time 2 hours)

Guadalest’s castle, Castillo de San José, dominates the skyline and offers some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley. The guided walk provides insight into its history—though some reviews note that the steep streets and steps may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The town’s museums, such as the miniature or ethnological museums, add quirky cultural layers, while plenty of cafes serve local dishes. Reviewers appreciate the ample free time for photos, visits, or just soaking up the atmosphere.

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Stop 3: Algar Waterfalls—Natural Refreshment (100 minutes free time)

The waterfalls of Fuentes del Algar are a highlight, especially for nature lovers. Declared a wetland protection area, the site showcases cascading water, lush greenery, and biodiversity. You’ll have the chance to swim in the pools, provided you bring water shoes (recommended by reviewers). The waterfalls are refreshing and photogenic, with some visitors mentioning the biodiversity and the tranquility of the place. Remember that glass and alcohol are not allowed here, and you’ll need to pay attention to the environmental care.

Comfort, Transportation, and Overall Value

The tour’s round-trip transportation is a key part of its appeal. The coach is described as comfortable and air-conditioned, making the long drive between stops manageable. With a small group size, the experience feels more personal, and guides have time to answer questions and share stories.

At $44 per person, this tour offers strong value—covering transportation, tickets to the waterfalls, and guided commentary. Notably, the price doesn’t include museum admissions or meals, but the included free time and scenic stops compensate well. The tour also offers discounts on museum entries, which can add to the experience if you choose to explore further.

The timing is quite packed—most travelers appreciate the well-structured schedule, although some mention slight discrepancies in free time durations. Still, the overall flow allows enough room for exploration without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

What truly sets this tour apart are the authentic moments and knowledgeable guides. Reviews repeatedly praise guides like Danny and Isaac for their storytelling, passion, and ability to switch languages seamlessly. Many travelers highlight how these guides make the experience memorable—sharing legends, history, and local insights that you wouldn’t get on your own.

Travelers also enjoy the well-planned free time, noting that they could explore, take photos, or relax comfortably. Several reviews mention the quality of the views, especially from Guadalest Castle and Altea’s viewpoints, which are perfect for photography. The waterfalls, with their biodiversity and tranquility, are often described as a refreshing highlight at the end of the day.

A common tip? Bring water shoes if you plan to swim, and carry some cash for snacks or souvenirs. Also, note that the trip isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the terrain and steps.

The Sum Up

This tour from Alicante offers an ideal mix of history, coastal charm, and natural beauty—all in one day. For travelers who like guided storytelling paired with free exploration, the experience strikes a good balance. The high praise for guides and the stunning views make it clear that this is a memorable, value-packed outing.

If your goal is to see Guadalest’s medieval fortress, enjoy the scenic vistas of Altea, and cool off at Algar Waterfalls, this trip delivers. The affordable price, comfortable transport, and well-organized schedule make it a great choice for those wanting to maximize their time and experiences in the Valencian Community.

However, if you prefer unhurried days or have mobility challenges, you might want to consider a more relaxed or accessible option. For most travelers, this tour offers a wonderful glimpse into the region’s highlights, packed with memorable moments and scenic views.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, especially if your children enjoy nature and exploring small towns. However, be aware that some areas involve walking on cobbled streets and steps, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long do we spend in each place?
You’ll have about an hour in Altea, two hours in Guadalest, and around 100 minutes at the waterfalls. The schedule is quite structured but allows enough time to explore, take photos, or relax.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included. You might find options at Guadalest or Altea, or bring snacks. Reviewers recommend bringing some cash for local cafes or shops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as are swimwear and towels if you plan to swim in the waterfalls. Water shoes are advised for safety and comfort in the water. Also, bring sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for extras.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the terrain. Pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

This day trip from Alicante is an excellent way to see a combination of historic sites, charming towns, and natural waterfalls without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers who want a well-organized, memorable experience with friendly guidance and plenty of opportunities for personal exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: