Lying in the shadow of a mountainous rock formation, Calpe is a bright beach town in southern Spain. Sunbathe on the sand by morning, visit historic sites in the afternoon and watch an open-air movie after sundown. There is also plenty of hiking in the area. Climb to the top of Ifach Rock, the towering formation on the tip of the Calpe Peninsula, or wander the trails of the nearby national park.
Humans have been settled in Calpe, known locally as Calp, since the Bronze Age due to the area’s strategic topography. Ifach Rock served as a lookout for the Romans when they camped here. Historic structures in the city include the Roman-era Queen’s Baths (Los Baños de Reina), the Torre de Moli flourmill, which was built on top of a former watchtower, and a Gothic church.
Follow the signs to Ifach National Park to reach the head of the trail leading to the rock’s summit. Spectacular views over the city, the surrounding hills and the sea greet you at the top, 332 metres (1,090 feet) up. If you choose to drive along the roadway, note that cars are not allowed in the park at night.
Rent a kayak, book a sailing tour or board a cruise from the Calpe marina. See the dramatic rock dwarfing the city from out at sea.
Enjoy a meal on the promenade at Fosso o Levante beach. Here, you’ll find cafés, bars and restaurants. See sand sculptors who craft their fragile structures on the walkway. Catch an outdoor movie on the promenade in August.
Drive 8 kilometres (5 miles) to the southwest of Calpe to visit the Cactus Garden, which offers free entry. Over 1,000 species of cacti and succulents thrive in the garden’s collection. Reach the garden via the road to Altea.
Located in the province of Alicante, Calpe lies about a half-hour drive to the northeast of Benidorm. You can also reach the town by bus, train and boat.
