All about Calpe / Calp (Costa Blanca, Spain)

Calpe (In Spanish), Calp (In Valencian) is a coastal town located in the northern part of the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante, in eastern Spain.

It is best known for the huge rock: Peñon de Ifach, a cliff jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea. This natural park is a place that attracts many tourists. Renting a vacation home on the Costa Blanca this summer? View a selection of vacation homes in Calpe.

1. Discover, get to know Calpe

Did you know…

• the Rock of Ifach 332 meters high and is one of the most photographed places in Spain;

• the Red-Yellow Steps is one of the most photographed spots in Calpe;

• Calpe is known for the pink flamingos that can be seen there in the salt lakes;

• these flamingos are pink because they eat small shrimp and algae that are rich in carotenoids, pigments that give the feathers their pink color;

• the church in the old center is the only example of a Gothic-Mudejar-style church in the entire region of Valencia.

The center of Calpe

Boulevards in Calpe

Calpe has two different boulevards, separated by the Peñón de Ifach. Both boulevards belong to the city’s large sandy beaches:

• Paseo Marítimo Infanta Elena: on the south side of the rock, in the center of Calpe, is the promenade of Arenal-Bol beach. This is a wide and lively promenade with a classic atmosphere. The promenade is full of restaurants, bars and stores and offers beautiful, iconic views of the Peñón de Ifach;

• Paseo Marítimo de la Fossa: the promenade of La Fossa beach is located on the north side of the cliff. This promenade has a slightly more modern look and also offers a wide selection of catering establishments. From here you can enjoy the view of the rock and the sea, but viewed from the other side.

The port of Calpe

The port of Calpe, sheltered at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach, combines an authentic fishing port with a modern marina. While the fishing fleet returns daily for the traditional fish auction, the Real Club Náutico Calpe accommodates yachts and pleasure boats. This duality makes the port a lively and versatile area.

Established in 1976, the marina offers a wide range of services and opportunities for water sports enthusiasts:

• 264 berths for boats up to 30 meters long;
• 24-hour service, travelift and shipyard;
• various nautical activities such as sailing, rowing and diving courses.

Around the port there are numerous restaurants where you can enjoy the daily fresh catch. For stunning views, a walk towards the entrance to the Peñón de Ifach Natural Park is highly recommended.

The neighborhoods

Calpe consists of several neighborhoods and zones, including:

• The historic center: this is the oldest part of the city, where you can still find traces of the ancient Roman settlement;

• Canuta: this neighborhood is located on the western side of Calpe, close to the port and La Fossa beach;

• La Fustera: this is a quiet residential area with villas and apartments, located between Calpe and Benissa;

• Los Pinos: this neighborhood is located on the east side of Calpe, opposite the Ifach rock and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea;

• Maryvilla: this neighborhood is located on the north side of Calpe and offers beautiful views of the bay of Calpe;

• Manzanera: this is a residential area located between the center of Calpe and the port, with beautiful views of the sea and the mountains;

• Oltamar: This neighborhood is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the bay of Calpe;

• La Vallesa: this neighborhood is located south of Calpe, next to the AP-7 freeway. It is a quiet residential area with many villas.

History in brief

• Prehistory/Old times: the area around Calpe was already inhabited in the Bronze Age. Later, the Iberians settled on strategic hills such as the Ifach and the Tossal de la Empedrola. The Phoenicians used Calpe as a trading post and contributed to agriculture. The Romans made it an important economic center, evidenced by the remains of fish processing and salt-making complexes by the sea, known as the Baños de la Reina;

• Middle Ages (8th – 13th centuries): the Moors gained the upper hand. After the reconquest by the Christians, Calpe became an important port city and because of its strategic location and the threat of pirates, the Castle of Calpe and the Torreó de la Peça (watchtower) were built to defend the coast;

• Early Modern Period:Calpe was repeatedly attacked by Barbary pirates in the 17th century, leading to further defensive works. During this period, the city developed mainly around fishing and its port;

• Modern Era (20th Century – Present): From the 1940s, Calpe transformed into a popular tourist destination on the Costa Blanca, thanks in part to its beaches, the Peñón de Ifach and its pleasant climate.

The name ‘Calpe’

The name Calpe comes from Phoenician and means“height” or“mountain.” The ancient Greeks called the place “Ifach,” which means “North” because of its geographical location in relation to the city of Alicante.

Nature around Calpe

The nature around Calpe is different, central of course is the well-known rock. But there are more natural areas in the region:

• The Peñón de Ifach Natural Park (Penyal d’Ifac): this is the most defining natural monument of Calpe. It has an altitude of 332 meters. The rock is much visited by hikers and climbers. It houses a unique microflora and fauna, including rare seabirds. The literal highlight at the summit is the 360° view;

• Las Salinas(Salt Flats): an important wetland in the middle of the city where migratory birds, such as the pink flamingos, rest and breed; the salt flats are a reminder of Calpe’s ancient salt extraction;

• Sierra Helada Natural Park(Serra Gelada):this natural park (approx. 25-30 min drive) is closest to Calpe and lies between Benidorm and Altea. It is the first park in the region to protect both sea and land;

• The Marjal de Pego-Oliva Natural Park (approx. 45-50 min drive): this large wetland is very important for nature. It protects many water birds and the rare Valencian fartet-fish;

• Serra d’Oltà and Serra del Toix: two local mountain ranges around Calpe popular with hikers and cyclists. They offer accessible trails with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, the Peñón de Ifach and the interior.

A Mediterranean climate

The climate of Calpe: summers are long and hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. Winters, on the other hand, are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures around 15 degrees.

Weather, average temperature

Below is a table of average temperatures in Calpe by month:

2. Experiencing Calpe, what to see & do

To the beach in Calpe

Things to do & see

The eye-catcher of Calpe is, of course, the Peñón de Ifach natural park. At its foot is the salt lake Salinas de Calpe, a nature reserve where you can spot many birds. For another spectacular panorama of the bay and the rock is the viewpoint Mirador Morro de Toix highly recommended.

Its 13 kilometers of coastline offer wide sandy beaches, intimate coves and two lively boulevards. In the old town, discover the medieval watchtower Torreón de la Peca and the photogenic, red-and-yellow-painted steps in Calle Puchalt. A unique landmark is the world-famous, colorful apartment complex La Muralla Roja.

Sports opportunities

Calpe is an excellent destination for sports enthusiasts. Whether you are into water sports, mountain sports or traditional sports, the town offers plenty of facilities and natural locations to be active.

Watersports

Calpe’s coastline, centered on the Real Club Náutico, is the perfect place for water-based activities:

• Sailing, kayaking and supping (stand-up paddle): at the port and on the larger beaches there are several rental companies and schools where you can rent equipment or take lessons;

• Diving and snorkeling: the rocky coves and protected marine area around the Peñón de Ifach offer a beautiful underwater world with clear water, ideal for both beginners and experienced divers;

• Jet skiing and boat rentals: for those looking for more speed, there are options to rent a jet ski or a boat (with or without a license) to explore the coastline from the sea;

• Sport fishing: regular fishing trips are organized from the port.

Sports centers and clubs

For those who prefer to train in a sports complex, there are several options:

• Municipal Sports Center: Pabellón Municipal de Deportes is the city’s main sports complex with facilities for indoor soccer, basketball, an indoor pool, an athletic track and a gym;

• Tennis and padel: Calpe has several clubs, such as the Club de Tenis Calpe, where you can rent courts for both tennis and the popular padel;

• Fitness centers: in addition to the municipal gym, there are several private fitness centers with a wide range of equipment and group classes.

Outdoor land sports

Calpe’s unique geography makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Walking and hiking: the most famous challenge is the ascent of the Peñón de Ifach. In addition, the surrounding mountains, such as the Sierra de Oltà and the Morro de Toix, offer beautiful hiking trails with spectacular views;

• Cycling and cycling: Calpe is a very popular base for professional cycling teams in the winter. The region is known for its excellent roads and challenging climbs. There are several companies where you can rent high-quality road bikes;

• Climbing: the Peñón de Ifach is a famous site for rock climbers, with several routes for the experienced climber.

Other sports

• Golf: Although Calpe itself does not have a golf course, there are several beautiful 9- and 18-hole courses within a short drive, such as the Club de Golf Ifach in nearby Benissa.

Restaurants & bars in Calpe

The city has a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes serving delicious dishes from traditional Spanish cuisine to international specialties.

Calpe is a port town, so it is no surprise that fresh fish and seafood are on the menu of many restaurants. Enjoy paella, zarzuela (a rich fish stew) or grilled prawns at one of the many harbor-side restaurants.

In addition to Spanish cuisine, you will find restaurants in Calpe that serve international dishes such as Italian, Chinese, Indian and Japanese.

To the weekly market on Saturdays & Wednesdays

Art & culture

• The Historical Museum in Calpe: Museo de Historia de Calp is the most important archaeological and historical museum. It is housed in the Casa de la Senyoreta, a building from the 17th-18th century. The museum displays finds from prehistory to the Middle Ages, with a focus on the Roman excavations of the “Baños de la Reina.

• The Collecting Museum: Museo del Coleccionismo is a unique museum located in the old concert hall El Saló Blau. It does not have a permanent collection, but changing exhibitions by private collectors. Here you will often find exhibitions related to the sea and fishing, but also on very different subjects.

More arts and culture in Calpe

Architectural buildings

The influence of world-renowned architect Ricardo Bofill is unmistakable in Calpe. His buildings in the La Manzanera neighborhood are icons of postmodern architecture:

• La Muralla Roja: a world-famous, labyrinthine apartment complex with striking pinks, reds and blues;

• Xanadú: an experimental, cube-shaped building (near La Muralla Roja) reminiscent of a castle;

• El Anfiteatro: a complex built like a Greek amphitheater with a pool in the middle.

Historical heritage

Scattered throughout the city you will find important relics of the past:

• Baños de La Reina: an important Roman site right by the sea. Unlike the name suggests, this was not a royal bathhouse, but a complex for salting fish;

• El Nucli Antic (the old center): the original walled city center. Stroll through the narrow streets, see the old church(Iglesia Parroquial Virgen de las Nieves), the remains of the city wall(Torreó de la Peça) and the colorful, painted steps of Calle Puchalt;

• El Molí del Morelló: the remains of a 19th-century windmill built on an old watchtower, near the Baños de la Reina.

Art and exhibitions

• The Old Town Hall: Ajuntament Vell in the historic center now serves as an exhibition space(Sala de Exposiciones). Exhibitions of local and national artists are held here throughout the year.

Special holidays

Calpe’s main festivals fall in summer and fall and are:

• Moros y Cristianos: this is Calpe’s most spectacular and best-known fiesta, celebrated in honor of the patron saint Santíssim Crist de la Suor. It usually takes place in the second half of October and commemorates the historic attack on the city in 1744, with spectacular entries, beach landings and re-enacted battles;

• Virgen del Carmen: an important maritime festival in honor of the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Taking place around July 16, the celebration includes a sea procession, with the statue of the virgin cruising the shoreline on a decorated boat and concluding with fireworks;

• Virgen de las Nieves: the town’s patron festival in honor of Our Lady of the Snows. This festival is celebrated in early August (around Aug. 5) and includes traditional activities such as flower offerings, religious processions, bull runs, concerts and fireworks.

Events

• May: Calpe holds a Spring Fair. This festival in Calpe is held in the Plaza Mayor and lasts for 5 days. If you are looking for things to do in Calpe, come and visit the stalls with artisans, food and drinks and much more;

• August: the Parc de la Creativitat hosts the annual Pop Festival organized. Come along and experience the wonderful musical talent Calpe has to offer;

• October: come to Calpe for a three-day festival with food, drinks and entertainment from local businesses at the Plaza Mayor in Calpe;

• October: Calpe hosts the German“Oktoberfesters Beer Festival” every year;

• December: the annual Christmas market of Calpe is held in the old town of Calpe, during the first week of December. Bring the whole family to enjoy the various stalls, as well as food and drinks, live entertainment, dancing, children’s activities and Christmas carols.

3. Visit Calpe, flight & accommodation

By plane to Calpe

Would you like to go on vacation to Calpe? Then the nearest airport is Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández (ALC). From the airport it is about 75 kilometers to Calpe, which amounts to a drive of about 50 to 60 minutes.

From the Netherlands and Belgium, airlines such as Transavia, Vueling, Ryanair, TUI fly and easyJet fly directly to Alicante, making the destination easily accessible.

On vacation to Calpe

Calpe is a lively destination known for its iconic rock, the Peñón de Ifach, and its extensive sandy beaches. It offers an ideal combination for various types of vacations:

• Beach vacations: with wide, golden sandy beaches such as Playa de la Fossa and Arenal-Bol, Calpe is perfect for sun lovers and families. In addition, numerous smaller coves can be found for those seeking more tranquility;

• Active vacations: the Peñón de Ifach is a paradise for hikers and climbers with spectacular views as a reward. The area is also excellent for water sports such as sailing, diving and kayaking;

• Cultural and atmospheric vacations: the historic center(Casco Antiguo) offers a maze of narrow, cobbled streets, colorful mosaics and traditional Spanish restaurants, away from the hustle and bustle of the coast;

• Wintering: thanks to its mild microclimate, Calpe, like other places on the Costa Blanca, is a very popular destination for winter visitors who want to enjoy the winter sun in a lively environment.

You can choose a package tour from a tour operator or arrange your own flight and accommodation separately.

Vacation accommodation in Calpe

• Hotels: Calpe has a wide choice, from large family hotels with extensive facilities and pools right on the sandy beaches of Arenal-Bol and La Fossa to smaller, more intimate hotels in and around the old town;

• Apartments: a popular and flexible option. You will find numerous apartments with spectacular views of the sea and the Peñón de Ifach along the boulevards, as well as quieter options in the center or near the port;

• Vacation homes and villas: for groups or families seeking space and privacy, many vacation homes and villas are available in the surrounding hills and neighborhoods, often with private pools and stunning views of the coastline.

Many accommodations, especially along the beaches and downtown, are within walking distance of stores, restaurants and the sea.

Everything at hand with the free Calpe app

Want to make sure you don’t miss a thing about your favorite place on the Costa Blanca? Then download the free app and turn your phone into the ultimate travel guide for the entire region:

• All “website” content is available: all travel guides, blogs and other tips for restaurants, activities and attractions, as well as accommodations;

• Easy navigation: all available information is presented clearly (by location) and you can easily navigate back and forth;

• Interactive map: explore the Costa Blanca and easily plan your routes to the most beautiful places;

• Smart place recognition: when you approach a place on the Costa Blanca, you automatically receive a notification that allows you to immediately open the travel guide for that place;

• Your favorites: you can save and easily find your favorite locations, such as restaurants.

The CostaBlanca.com app is completely free to download and use. Start planning your perfect trip today!

Question & answer (FAQ)

Useful links

• Calpe Turismo (Tourist Information)
• Calpe Wikipedia (General information)
• Spain.info Calpe (Tourist information)

Relevant articles

Follow CostaBlanca.com on Instagram