Discover Calpe: Nature, Coast and Culture

Calpe combines a striking coastal landscape with opportunities to observe nature and explore history. The differences between these themes give you a practical guide for planning your trip.

Landscape and trails at the Peñón de Ifach

The Peñón de Ifach is a limestone rock formation measuring about 50,000 m². It is 332 metres high and one kilometre long. Its plant community includes nearly 300 species, among them Valencian endemics that are some of the most endangered plants in the Iberian flora. The Paseo Ecológico offers views of steep rock faces, native flora and fauna, and the Mediterranean Sea.

The Paseo Ecológico is made of natural stone, covers 30,600 m² and stretches for almost a kilometre. Planted areas, palm trees and different plant species alternate along the route with viewpoints on natural breakwaters. The route at the Peñón de Ifach requires a different time commitment: it takes about two and a half hours and has two sections. Check the duration and conditions before setting out.

Salt flats and coastal activities

Las Salinas de Calpe is a lagoon of tombolo origin, whose formation is linked to the development of a double sandbar. There is an adapted, easily accessible semicircular path for birdwatching. Up to 173 breeding and migratory bird species have been recorded in the area; observations may change over time. Trail conditions may also vary seasonally.

The Paseo Princesa de Asturias starts at Cala El Racó, at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach, near the fishing port. During the summer season, you can also use an adapted underwater trail there: it is 120 metres long and features nine information panels about one metre below the water’s surface. This seasonal installation may vary, so check the current dates before visiting. A one-hour boat trip from the port of Calp takes you around the bay and offers views of the Peñón de Ifach and the town. Check in advance whether departures are currently available.

Historic sites and buildings

At Forat de la Mar, openings in Calp’s walls are a reminder of the 18th century. They were made after the pirate threat had ended and provided access to the Arrabal. In the past, fishing boat crews would gather there every morning to assess the sea conditions and decide whether they could set out. The name Torreó de la Peça also refers to an earlier fortification: it comes from a fort with a cannon that was demolished in the 20th century.

The Iglesia Antigua was built in the early 15th century over an older chapel. The fortified building combines Gothic and Mudéjar features; originally, it served both religious and defensive purposes. Inside is a 15th-century tempera panel depicting Saint Anthony the Abbot and Saints Cosmas and Damian. The Museo de Historia de Calp offers another glimpse into the past: its Bronze Age materials from the Cosentari site include bowls, grinding stones and sickles.

Baños de la Reina is a Roman coastal site in a sheltered cove protected by the Peñón de Ifach. The complex includes Roman architectural features and mosaics. Pools carved into the coastal rocks were used to keep fish fresh and gave the site its name. The archaeological remains of La Pobla d'Ifac have been extensively prepared for visits in collaboration with the Museo Arqueológico de Alicante (MARQ). Check the current arrangements for visiting before you go.

Fishing and local traditions

At the Lonja y subasta de pescado, visitors can watch the wholesale sale of fresh fish caught daily by Calpe’s fishing fleet. Visiting arrangements and operating procedures may change, so check the current conditions. The Alquería of Calp offers a different perspective on local history: it was fortified between the 13th and 14th centuries, and access to the citadel was through a single gateway called “El Portalet”.

Festivals are also part of the cultural calendar: Moros y Cristianos Santísimo Cristo del Sudor has been celebrated in Calp since 1977. Programme details may vary from year to year. Calpe thus offers landscapes, historic sites and fishing traditions as distinct themes to consider when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: La Canuta, Albatera, Benimantell, Benidoleig, Portichol, Bahía de Jávea, Jacarilla, Benidorm.

For the broader travel overview: Alicante.