Decide which direction works
Altea's church-topped old town sits above the lower commercial and coastal areas, linked by steep streets and steps. Before leaving, decide whether you will walk up and back, arrange transport for one direction or remain on one level. Each is a valid way to enjoy the town.
Do not infer the effort from the straight-line distance. Trace the route you intend to use and check any alternative needed for a pushchair or reduced mobility. An attractive staircase in a photograph is not an obligation to use that particular approach.
Climb without the shopping
Keep the bag light for the uphill part. Carry water and what the weather requires, leaving groceries and unnecessary beach equipment at the apartment. If the outing includes shopping, place it after the climb and close to the route home rather than carrying purchases through every street.
Allow pauses according to the group's pace. It is better to stop before someone is exhausted than to use the church square as an inflexible target. If you decide to turn back, the outing can still provide a useful look at the town without reaching its highest point.
Pause around the old-town setting
The area around the church of the Virgin of Consuelo is a natural focus once you reach the upper streets. Enjoy the outlook and architecture without adding a long sequence of further stops. Check current visitor arrangements separately if you wish to enter the church or another building.
Respect residential doorways and keep space for people using the streets. A narrow lane can be both photogenic and somebody's everyday route. Waiting for a clear moment usually produces a better photograph than arranging a group across the whole passage.
Make the descent a conscious choice
Review the return before setting off, particularly if anyone finds steps harder going down. Use an agreed route and avoid assuming a shortcut is suitable merely because it points towards the sea. Back at the apartment, leave time to rest before another outing. The contrast between Altea's levels is part of its interest, but it is more enjoyable when the physical effort has been planned honestly.
