From Alicante: Guadalest, Altea & ticket in Algar Waterfalls

If you’re considering a day trip from Alicante that hits all the hot spots of the Valencian Community, this tour might just be what you’re after. It promises a mix of scenic beauty, historic charm, and natural refreshment—all packed into approximately 11 hours. We’ve looked into it to give you an honest, detailed rundown of what you can expect, what makes it worth considering, and a few things to keep in mind.

One of the things we really like is how the tour balances guided insight with free time, letting you soak up the vibe at each stop without feeling rushed. Another is the sheer variety of locations—ranging from picturesque coastal towns to medieval mountain villages and stunning waterfalls. A potential downside? It’s a long day, so it might be tiring if you prefer more relaxed, less structured trips or have mobility considerations. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at the region without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines scenic coastal views, historic towns, and natural waterfalls all in one day.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides make the experience engaging with interesting facts and humor.
• Good Value: At $53, you get transportation, tickets, and guided tours, making it an efficient way to see multiple sights.
• Adequate Free Time: You’ll have enough time to explore, take photos, or relax at each location.
• Bilingual Tour: Guides speak Spanish, English, and French, accommodating a range of travelers.
• Important to Know: The waterfalls can be crowded, and waterproof shoes are recommended if you plan to swim.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full-Day Adventure with a Well-Structured Itinerary

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded snapshot of some of the most charming and scenic areas near Alicante. It’s structured with a mix of guided tours and free exploration, making it flexible enough for different travel styles. The day kicks off early, with several meeting points, before heading towards the first stop.

The Journey Begins: Transportation and Timing

Starting with roundtrip transportation by bus, the trip typically lasts about 11 hours. The journey includes a quick stop in Benidorm, a lively coastal city famed for its beaches and skyline, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The coach features comfortable seats and air conditioning, essential for the Spanish heat, especially during summer months.

Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the transportation. One reviewer shared, “The bus was clean, safe, and the air conditioning was working perfectly,” which is a good sign for comfort during the long day. The driver, often praised for their skill, navigates the winding mountain roads with ease, adding to the smoothness of the experience.

First Stop: Altea — Charm and Coastal Views

Your first real destination is Altea, a highlight for lovers of quaint seaside towns. With a guided tour of about 20 minutes, you’ll get a taste of its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, decorated balconies, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. There’s plenty of opportunity to stroll, snap photos, or browse craft shops.

Many reviews mention how beautiful Altea is, with one traveler noting, “Altea was absolutely gorgeous, and the views from the viewpoints are spectacular.” You’ll also have an hour of free time afterward. Whether you spend it lounging on the beach, grabbing a coffee, or shopping for local souvenirs, you’ll find this town’s relaxed vibe irresistible.

Guadalest — Medieval Magnificence

Next, the tour takes you to Guadalest, often described as one of Spain’s most beautiful mountain villages. A guided walking tour of about 30 minutes introduces you to its history and sights, including the impressive Castillo de San José. The fortress and surrounding mountains offer some of the best panoramic views of the region, making it a photographer’s dream.

Once your guided tour wraps up, you’ll have two hours of free time. Reviewers rave about Guadalest’s charm: “The villages we visited were both beautiful and interesting,” and many appreciate the balance of guided insight with independent exploration. During the free time, you might visit a museum—like the Museum of Miniatures or the Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers—or simply wander through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere.

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The Natural Wonder: Algar Waterfalls

The final highlight of the day is the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls, a natural site declared a protected wetland. With about 100 minutes here, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, take photos, and most importantly, enjoy a refreshing dip in the waterfalls’ natural pools.

Travelers have said: “The waterfalls were super, ideal for a swim,” and many mention how crowded it can be, especially on weekends or holidays. It’s wise to bring waterproof shoes if you plan to get in the water—water shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience. The setting is stunning, with lush greenery surrounding cascades and pools, perfect for cooling down after a hot day.

Returning Journey

After unwinding at the waterfalls, the bus makes its way back to Alicante, with a couple of short stops along the way. The overall experience is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment, with a well-paced schedule and comfortable transport.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The real strength of this experience lies in the guides and the scenery. Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable and entertaining the guides are. Danny, for example, has been described as “brilliant,” sharing interesting historical facts with humor, which keeps everyone engaged throughout the day.

The views across Guadalest and Altea are often described as “magical,” with many travelers noting that photos don’t do justice to the beauty of these places. The waterfalls offer a fantastic opportunity to cool off and enjoy nature, with some reviews highlighting how it feels like being transported somewhere exotic.

Most travelers also find the price point to be excellent value, especially considering that the ticket includes transportation, guided tours, and entrance to the waterfalls. It’s a hassle-free way to tick off several must-see spots without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth mentioning a few practical points. The tour is quite long, so if you have mobility issues, it might be tiring, as there’s uphill walking in Guadalest and uneven cobbled streets in Altea. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water shoes if you plan to swim.

Crowds at the waterfalls can be intense, especially on weekends. Arriving early or during off-peak times might improve your experience. Also, since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks, water, or a packed lunch could enhance your day.

The tour operates in multiple languages—Spanish, English, and French—making it accessible for a broad range of travelers. Guides are known for their friendliness and informative commentary, often sharing insider tips and local favorites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who want a full day of sightseeing, combining history, nature, and coastal charm. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. Families with older children might enjoy it, but those with mobility limitations should consider the walking requirements.

It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to the region who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. Foodies and culture lovers will appreciate the historical insights and local shops, while nature enthusiasts will love the waterfalls.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, reasonably priced way to see some of the Valencian Community’s most stunning spots, this tour offers a lot for your money. The combination of guided insights, free time, and incredible scenery makes it a rewarding experience. Plus, the high praise for guides and the quality of the stops suggests you’re in good hands.

While it’s a packed day, the variety and natural beauty mean most travelers come away feeling they’ve truly experienced a slice of Spain’s diverse charm. Whether it’s the panoramic views of Guadalest, the charming streets of Altea, or the cool waterfalls of Algar, this trip hits all the right notes.

If you’re someone who values good value, expert guides, and a mix of culture and nature, this is likely to be a trip you’ll remember fondly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation by bus is included, making it easy and comfortable to move between locations.

How long do we spend in each place?
You’ll have specific guided tour times plus free time—about 20 minutes in Altea, 30 minutes in Guadalest, and 100 minutes at the waterfalls—giving ample opportunity to explore.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially since there’s uphill walking and cobbled streets. Waterproof shoes are recommended for swimming at the waterfalls. Bringing water and snacks is also advisable since food isn’t provided.

Are there any restrictions for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users because of the walking involved.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Spanish, English, and French, accommodating a diverse group of travelers.

Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Absolutely, and many reviews mention how refreshing and fun it is to swim in the natural pools, though it can be crowded during busy times.

Is food provided during the trip?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or buy something during your free time.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most reviews are from summer months, but the tour operates year-round. Be prepared for warm weather and possibly crowded waterfalls in peak season.

In all, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of the Valencian Community’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re a culture buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out, it’s worth considering. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water shoes for the waterfalls!

You can check availability for your dates here: