Nestled along the sparkling Mediterranean coast, the charming town of Altea beckons travelers seeking a wine-centric adventure. This picturesque Spanish village, with its iconic blue-domed church and quaint shops, offers a delightful blend of authentic local cuisine, guided winery tours, and Michelin-recommended dining experiences. From savoring tapas at a trendy gastro bar to indulging in robust reds at a cozy restaurant, a two-day exploration of Altea’s wine scene promises to captivate the senses and leave lasting memories. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey through this romantic Spanish destination, where each step unveils a new layer of the region’s vibrant wine culture.
Key Points
- Explore the charming old town of Altea, with its picturesque cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and iconic blue-domed church.
- Savor authentic local cuisine and tapas at the Gastro Bar in the heart of Altea’s old town.
- Discover the unique brewing techniques and taste the signature beers at the local brewery, Althaia.
- Indulge in a Michelin-recommended dining experience at Oustau De Altea, featuring fresh regional ingredients and seasonal produce.
- Immerse in the winemaking traditions at the Bodega Pepe Mendoza and Bodega Les Freses wineries, tasting their signature varietals and learning about sustainable practices.
Hotel Abaco’s Charming Accommodations
The family-owned Hotel Abaco provided charming accommodations with relaxed decor and surroundings for the 2-night stay.
The hotel’s cozy atmosphere and welcoming ambiance created a perfect setting for travelers to unwind and enjoy the local culture.
The rooms were tastefully furnished, offering a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Guests appreciated the attention to detail and the hotel’s commitment to providing a memorable experience.
The hotel’s location in the heart of the charming town of Altea further enhanced the appeal, allowing visitors to easily explore the area’s picturesque streets and historic attractions.
Exploring Altea’s Old Town
Visitors strolled through Altea’s picturesque old town, captivated by its charming cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant flowers.
They explored the quaint shops and galleries, discovering local artisanal crafts and unique souvenirs.
The town’s iconic church, with its distinctive blue-tiled dome, stood as a centerpiece, drawing the eye upwards.
Locals greeted passersby, offering recommendations for the best tapas spots.
At Tapas Gastro Bar, guests savored three homemade Spanish tapas and two drinks, seeing the lively atmosphere.
The old town’s timeless charm and warm hospitality left a lasting impression, whetting the appetite for the wine tasting adventures to come.
Tapas Gastro Bar Experience
Guests savored three homemade Spanish tapas and two drinks as they immersed themselves in the lively atmosphere of Tapas Gastro Bar.
This traditional tapas spot in the heart of Altea’s old town offered an authentic taste of local cuisine. Visitors sampled a variety of regional specialties, from classic patatas bravas to fresh seafood delicacies.
The casual, convivial setting encouraged guests to relax and savor each bite, complemented by the smooth sips of local wines and beers.
With its charming decor and welcoming service, Tapas Gastro Bar provided a delightful introduction to the culinary delights of Altea, whetting the appetite for the gastronomic adventures to come.
Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
After savoring the tapas and drinks at Tapas Gastro Bar, the group headed to the local brewery Althaia for a tour and beer tasting. The guide led them through the brewing process, explaining the unique techniques used to craft Althaia’s four signature beers. The group then sampled each variety, complemented by local cheeses and sausages.
| Beer | ABV | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Altea Lager | 5.2% | Light, crisp, and refreshing |
| Amber Ale | 6.0% | Caramel malt backbone, subtle hop bitterness |
| Wheat Beer | 4.8% | Citrusy, unfiltered, and zesty |
| Imperial Stout | 8.5% | Rich, chocolatey, and smooth |
The brewing tour and tasting provided a fascinating insight into the local beer scene, leaving the group eager to explore more of Altea’s culinary delights.
Michelin-Recommended Dinner at Oustau De Altea
The group’s culinary journey continued with a Michelin-recommended dinner at the acclaimed Restaurant Oustau de Altea, where they indulged in a 3-course menu paired with a bottle of local wine per two people.
The sophisticated setting and attentive service set the stage for an exceptional dining experience.
The meal began with a selection of appetizers that showcased the region’s fresh ingredients and expert culinary techniques.
The main courses featured locally-sourced proteins and seasonal produce, each dish expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
To cap off the evening, the group savored a delectable dessert course that left them truly satisfied and appreciative of the gastronomic excellence found at this Michelin-recognized hotel.
Bodega Pepe Mendoza Wine Tasting
Next, the group ventured to Bodega Pepe Mendoza, where they toured the vineyard and sampled a tasting of 6 distinct wines paired with Spanish cheeses and embutidos.
The winery, run by the Mendoza family for generations, is renowned for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods.
During the tasting, the group savored the flavors of the region’s signature varietals, including Monastrell and Tempranillo. The knowledgeable staff provided insights into the unique terroir and production processes that give the wines their distinctive character.
Guests were particularly impressed by the complex notes and well-balanced profiles of the selections.
The Bodega Pepe Mendoza experience offered a delightful glimpse into the rich winemaking heritage of Altea.
Bodega Les Freses Winery Visit
From there, the group headed to Bodega Les Freses, a winery born amidst strawberry fields that offered 3 distinct wine tastings.
The staff shared the winery’s unique story and guided your through sampling the regional varietals in a serene setting.
The first wine tasted was a light and fruity rosé, followed by a smooth red blend. The final pour was a crisp, aromatic white that perfectly complemented the warm afternoon.
Between sips, the visitors learned about the winery’s sustainable practices and the passion behind crafting these exceptional wines.
With newfound appreciation for the local terroir, the group eagerly anticipated their next stop on the wine-filled itinerary.
Dinner at Restaurant SHIRAZ
After exploring the wineries, the group enjoyed a dinner at Restaurant SHIRAZ, where they shared a plate for two and savored a bottle of wine.
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and attentive service created the perfect setting for a leisurely evening.
The shared plate featured a selection of local delicacies, including:
- Grilled vegetables drizzled with olive oil
- Cured Spanish meats and cheeses
- Freshly baked bread
- A selection of olives
As they sipped the robust red wine, the travelers shared stories of their day’s adventures, savoring the flavors and ambiance of this intimate dining experience.
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Recap
Altea’s wine-centric adventure offers a delightful blend of historic charm, authentic cuisine, and exceptional local wines.
From exploring the picturesque old town to indulging in Michelin-recommended dining and guided winery tours, this romantic Spanish village provides an immersive and memorable experience for wine enthusiasts.
Whether savoring tapas, discovering signature vintages, or enjoying a cozy dinner, visitors are sure to leave Altea with a newfound appreciation for the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
