Calpe, a town with a long history and deeply-rooted traditions, is one of the most charming destinations on the Costa Blanca. Dominated by the imposing image of the Rock of Ifach, Calpe sits on the shores of the Mediterranean, surrounded by a beautiful landscape filled with mountains and vineyards.
The Marina, the promenade and 11 kilometres of coastline, marked by cliffs, beaches and coves, are some of the many attractions. Another attraction is one of the symbols of the town, the Rock of Ifach, a huge calcareous rock, 332 metres high. This region has been declared Nature Reserve, because of its botanical and faunal diversity. The best views of Calpe and its coastline are seen from the top of the rock, accessible through guided toursof the park.
Nature
14 beaches and coves allow you to choose from endless beaches with fine golden sand, tranquil bays, small sandy coves or pristine rocky shores by cliffs, all recognized for the purity of their clean waters, which are an unmistakable turquoise. Arenal-Bol and La Fossa-Levante are seemingly endless sandy urban beaches where you can go for a relaxing stroll or enjoy sports and aquatic activities, which are available due to a wide variety of services and facilities.
Calpe also has over 5 km of beautiful cliffs, including the Peñón de Ifach, Toix, and La Manzanera. You’ll also find lovely, tranquil coves sculpted by the wind and sea that are surrounded by vegetation, including El Penyal, Les Bassetes, and El Racó, magical places where diving, fishing, and sailing become unforgettable experiences.
History and Architecture
Calpe was inhabited by many different Mediterranean cultures and its history is narrated by the remains it preserves, including the Baños de la Reina (Queen’s Baths), from Roman times. The historic quarter of Calpe is bordered by the old walls erected in the 15th century to defend the city against pirate attacks. Next to the Moorish quarter of El Arrabal, part of the medieval walled precinct is preserved, together with some fronts and the large Tower of Peça. Nearby, the parish church devoted to the Virgin of the Snow, dating back to the 15th century, is the only Gothic-Mudejar temple in the Region of Valencia.
Forat de la Mar, the Hermitage of San Salvador, and the panoramic view of the architectural site designed by famous Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill at the end of the 20th century are other sites you cannot miss.
Gastronomy
The typical cuisine of Calpe is primarily based on the delicious fish of its bay: monkfish, mackerel, octopus, sardines… Llauna de Calp is one of the most representative dishes of Calpe’s cuisine, and is a simple dish made primarily with fish from the bay, potatoes, and tomatoes. Rice is also a star of the cuisine and you can try in Calpe all the specific dishes of the area, including the delicious arròs del senyoret, putxeros de polp, paella, arròs amb fessols i naps, arròs amb bledes or arròs al forn. Don’t forget to also sample the traditional cocas, sweet and savory pastries which are baked daily, as well as delicious homemade sweets.
Cover image via Calpe Tourist Info