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

Discover Alicante’s Charms in One Day: Guadalest, Altea, and Fuentes del Algar

If you’re visiting Alicante and want to see some of the most striking spots the Valencian Community has to offer, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. For about $44, you get a full 11 hours of exploring three unique destinations—the whitewashed streets of Altea, the panoramic vistas of Guadalest, and the cascading waterfalls of Fuentes del Algar. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip is a wonderful way to see these highlights without the hassle of planning transport or timing.

What makes this tour stand out is the careful balance of guided sightseeing and free time—you’re encouraged to wander, shop, take photos, or just soak up the atmosphere at every stop. Plus, the inclusion of entrance to the Fuentes del Algar makes it a great value, giving you access to one of Alicante’s most beautiful natural sites. We especially appreciate the insights offered by guides, who share stories, history, and local tips that enrich the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the moderate physical activity involved—there are some hills, steps, and uneven cobblestones, which might be challenging for those with reduced mobility. Still, if you’re reasonably active and love authentic, scenic journeys, this trip hits most of the right notes.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize a single day in Alicante—families, couples, or solo explorers keen on discovering the region’s essence without overloading their schedule. It’s especially appreciated by those who enjoy guided insights and flexible free time.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Altea, Guadalest, and Fuentes del Algar in just one day.
• Guided and free time: Combines expert commentary with options for personal exploration.
• Natural and cultural beauty: From waterfalls and mountain views to cobbled streets and museums.
• Great value: Entrance fees, transportation, and guided tours included for under $50.
• Moderate activity: Expect some hills, steps, and uneven surfaces—bring water shoes if you plan to swim.
• Suitable for curious travelers: Those who appreciate history, scenic views, and authentic local towns.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The excursion kicks off early from either Alicante or Benidorm, with round-trip transportation included. We loved the convenience this offers, especially since the journey to each town is covered comfortably in an air-conditioned bus. There’s no need to worry about parking or driving—your guide handles that while you relax and enjoy the scenery. The group size is capped at 54 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social energy.

Exploring Altea

Our first stop is Altea, often heralded as one of the most beautiful villages in Alicante. The guide takes us on a 30-minute walk through its cobbled, narrow streets and whitewashed houses with decorated balconies. We loved how the guide pointed out details like the Consuelo church, with its distinctive vaults visible from any corner, and shared snippets of local lore. The visual charm of Altea lies in its simplicity—those traditional Mediterranean houses, the sea breeze, and the peaceful atmosphere.

After the walking tour, you’re given about an hour of free time in Altea. This is your chance to grab a bite, perhaps try some Mediterranean cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax overlooking the sea from one of the many viewpoints. Many reviews highlight how well-balanced this free time is, allowing us to unwind and take photos without feeling rushed.

Guadalest: Spain’s Fairy-Tale Town

Next, we set off for Guadalest, famous for its spectacular mountain views and a castle that looks like it belongs in a storybook. We loved the way our guide explained the history of Castillo de San José, a fortress perched above the town offering panoramic vistas that make your camera work overtime. The town itself is tiny but packed with interesting galleries and museums, including the Microminiatures and Microgigante Museums, as well as the Salt and Pepper Museum—a quirky collection that surprises many visitors.

We found the Town Hall square and baroque church charming, and appreciated learning about the Orduña family, whose noble house and artworks add depth to Guadalest’s cultural scene. Plus, the views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs are breathtaking. The 30-minute walk here is manageable, but reviewers note that there are some inclines and steps, so some physical effort is involved.

More Free Time and Exploration

After the guided tour, you’re given around two hours for independent exploration. You can visit various museums or shops, or simply find a cozy café. Many travelers mention how this free time allows a more personal connection to Guadalest’s tiny streets and scenery. If you like museums, the Casa Orduña is well worth a visit, and the galleries are full of original, local artwork.

The Natural Wonder: Fuentes del Algar

Leaving Guadalest, we head to the Fuentes del Algar, an area renowned for its cascading waterfalls and natural pools. The 1 hour and 30 minutes here is enough to walk around the Arboretum or Estret de Sacos, and many find the waterfalls a perfect spot to cool off or take photos. For those wanting to swim, the water is inviting, and water shoes are recommended—many reviews praise the opportunity to bathe in the cool waters.

The scenery is unforgettable: clear waters rushing through lush surroundings, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The entrance fee is included, making this natural site a highlight at a very reasonable price.

Final Stops and Return

The tour wraps up with short stops in Benidorm and Alicante. The Benidorm transfer is brief—just 30 minutes—giving you a taste of Spain’s lively coastal town. The final stop in Alicante offers an overview of the region’s highlights, perfect for those wanting a last glimpse before heading back home.

What We Loved About This Tour

Authentic towns and natural beauty: The combination of Altea’s peaceful streets, Guadalest’s mountain views, and the spectacular waterfalls at Fuentes del Algar offers a well-rounded impression of the region. The guided element adds valuable context, making each stop more meaningful.

Excellent value for money: With entrance fees, transport, and guided commentary included, the total cost under $45 is competitive—many reviews mention how this is a “great value” for a full day of sightseeing.

Flexible free time: The balance of guided walks and free exploration means you get personal time to take photos, shop, or relax in cafés—reviewers appreciate this aspect, calling it “well-organized” and “not rushed.”

Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, it does involve some moderate walking and climbing—steps and inclines at Guadalest and the waterfalls could be tiring if you’re less mobile. Also, the guide’s explanations, while enthusiastic and informative, were sometimes noted as harder to understand for non-Spanish speakers, though guides do speak English.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic views, small towns, and natural sites. It’s ideal for those craving authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences without the hassle of independent planning. Families with older children, couples, or solo adventurers will find the pace comfortable and the sights captivating. If you’re after delicious local food, the free time in Altea and Guadalest is perfect for sampling regional dishes or browsing artisan shops.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid value for anyone wanting to see some of Alicante’s most beautiful spots in a single day. The combination of guided history and culture, stunning vistas, and relaxing natural scenery makes it a well-rounded experience. The friendly guides and well-structured itinerary ensure you won’t feel overwhelmed, yet you’ll walk away with a genuine sense of the region’s charm. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy authentic towns, panoramic views, and outdoor activities.

Whether you’re captivated by Guadalest’s mountain fortress, love wandering Altea’s picturesque streets, or want to splash around in Fuentes del Algar’s waterfalls, this trip delivers a memorable taste of Valencian Spain—without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Alicante or Benidorm is included, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Do I need to bring anything special?
If you plan to swim at Fuentes del Algar, water shoes are recommended. Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are a must, especially for the hills and cobbled streets.

Are the sites accessible?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, so it’s not ideal for those with reduced mobility.

What’s the guide like?
Based on reviews, guides like Danny and Maria are knowledgeable, friendly, and provide entertaining insights, though some mention that explanations are sometimes more in Spanish.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, both Guadalest and Altea have various shops, and you’ll have free time to browse.

Is it suitable for children?
While most children who are comfortable walking and climbing will enjoy it, the moderate physical activity might be tiring for younger kids.

What about food?
Food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of places to eat during your free time in Altea and Guadalest.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience some of Alicante’s most scenic and culturally interesting locations in just one day. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, well-organized outing that balances sightseeing with leisure, all at a reasonable price.