From Alicante: Guadalest, Altea & ticket in Algar Waterfalls

Start your day from Alicante with a trip that takes you through some of the most enchanting spots in the Valencian Community. For about $53, you’ll spend roughly a full day exploring Altea’s cobbled streets, the medieval charm of Guadalest, and the stunning Fuentes del Algar waterfalls—all with roundtrip transport, guided insights, and some free time in each location.

What we love about this tour is how it balances guided highlights with free time, letting you soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The views from Guadalest’s castle are truly spectacular, and the waterfalls provide a refreshing, close-up encounter with nature. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience informative without feeling rushed.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, you might find the timings a bit tight—especially in Altea, where some reviews mention shops opening later. That said, this tour is perfect for travelers eager to see diverse sights in one day—from coastlines to mountain vistas—and who enjoy a mix of cultural sights and outdoor activities.

This trip suits those who appreciate authentic local towns, love stunning scenery, and want a well-organized day out without the hassle of planning multiple transport legs. If your goal is to maximize sights and history while enjoying some nature, you’re in for a treat.

Key Points

• Diverse stops: Visit three very different locations—coastal town, medieval village, and waterfalls.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides offer rich commentary, making each stop more meaningful.
• Free time: Ample opportunities to explore at your own pace, shop, or relax.
• Natural beauty: The waterfalls of Fuentes del Algar are a highlight, perfect for swimming and cooling off.
• Value for money: For around $53, it includes transportation, tickets, and discounts, making it a well-priced experience.
• Accessible experiences: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, but otherwise manageable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Out from Alicante

The adventure begins with a comfortable bus ride, giving you a chance to relax and get your bearings. The roundtrip transportation is included, and reviews consistently praise the smooth and timely travel. The driver’s skill in navigating narrow mountain roads is often highlighted, making the journey safe and hassle-free.

Altea: A Coastal Charm

First stop is Altea, a town frequently described as a “jewel of the Costa Blanca.” You’ll stroll through its cobbled streets, where whitewashed houses with decorated balconies evoke a feeling of stepping into a Mediterranean postcard. Guides often point out the iconic church, the Cathedral of the Sea, and suggest wandering down to the beach to enjoy the spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

Many reviews mention the good balance of guided tour and free time here. Travelers appreciate that they can browse local craft shops, snap photos from scenic viewpoints, or simply relax in a café. Some wish for longer in Altea, especially as shops open later on Sundays, but most feel they got enough time to enjoy the town’s charm.

Guadalest: A Medieval Fortress

Next, you’ll visit Guadalest, often described as one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval towns. From the bus, views of the town perched high above mountain valleys are breathtaking. The guided walk through Guadalest’s narrow streets reveals medieval architecture, tiny museums, and quaint shops. The Castillo de San José —a fortress set atop a hill—dominates the skyline and offers stunning panoramic vistas.

Reviewers love the fascinating history they learn during the guided tour. You might visit the Museum of Microgiants or Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, showcasing the town’s quirky museums, which add a more personal touch to your visit. Once the tour wraps up, many choose to explore on their own, trying local cuisine or taking more photos of the rugged landscape.

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Fuentes del Algar Waterfalls

The final stop is the Fuentes del Algar—a highlight for many. This protected wetland is a series of spectacular waterfalls, natural pools, and lush environment. You’ll have free time to swim, relax, or simply take in the biodiversity. Travelers love the refreshing dip and the chance to cool off after a day of sightseeing.

The water is described as crystal-clear, and water shoes are recommended, though reviews note flip-flops are often sufficient. The site is well-maintained, and many mention how it’s a peaceful, natural oasis—perfect for recharging before heading back to Alicante.

Returning and Practical Tips

The bus ride back is relaxed, with guides sharing interesting local facts or funny stories. Many reviews say the day ends on a high note, feeling both fulfilled and refreshed.

A few practical notes: food and drinks are not allowed on the bus, and the tour doesn’t include entry tickets to museums in Guadalest. However, discounts are offered, and you might find local eateries and craft shops well worth exploring on your own.

Real Experiences from Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. For instance, one said, “Daniel was a very good host, welcoming and knowledgeable,” while others praised the guides’ humor and storytelling which kept the group engaged.

The scenery and sites seem to be a consistent highlight. Comments like “Guadalest’s setting is extraordinary” and “the waterfalls are stunning” reflect the awe travelers feel. The tours’ balance of guided parts and free time gets high marks—most feel they had enough time to see and do what interested them most.

The value is also often praised. For roughly $53—including water tickets and transportation—many say they got their money’s worth for the variety, scenery, and cultural insights packed into one day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you love diverse scenery, enjoy exploring charming towns, and want a well-organized day that covers a lot of ground without the stress of planning, this tour is ideal. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who don’t mind some walking and are eager to see a mix of historical and natural sights.

It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy some of the best Valencian highlights in one go. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking on uneven or narrow streets.

FAQ

• What is included in the ticket price?
  The price covers roundtrip transportation, tickets to the Algar Waterfalls, an excursion coordinator, free time in Guadalest and Altea, and museum discounts.

• Is food included?
  No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy in the towns.

• Are water shoes necessary?
  Water shoes are advised for the waterfalls, but many reviewers found flip-flops sufficient. You might find that water shoes make the experience more comfortable.

• Can I stay longer in Altea or Guadalest?
  The tour provides designated free time, but if you’re a slow walker or love shopping, you might wish for more time. Some travelers mention wishing they had longer in Altea, especially on Sundays.

• Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
  It’s great for active adults, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved.

• Are there any restrictions at the waterfalls?
  You cannot bring food, glass, or alcohol into the Algar Waterfalls area. Swimwear, towels, and waterproof shoes are recommended for water activities.

• How flexible is the schedule?
  The schedule is well-organized, with fixed times, but the free time allows some flexibility for personal exploration or rest.

To sum it up, this day trip offers a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and outdoor fun at a reasonable price. Guided insights make each stop meaningful, and the natural setting of the waterfalls provides a perfect escape from city life. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a snapshot of the Valencian countryside, enjoy charming towns, and explore nature without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Whether you’re after stunning vistas, quaint streets, or a refreshing swim in nature, this tour delivers a compact yet memorable experience that captures the best of the Costa Blanca.

You can check availability for your dates here: