Located in the province of Alicante, this charming coastal town perfectly combines stunning Mediterranean scenery with a rich history and lively modern life. Calpe is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world with its stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Now then… Do you know everything there is to see in Calpe? Without a doubt, it’s one of those towns near Benidorm that you can’t miss.
18 Things to see in Calpe
Of course! Here’s a list of ten must-see places to visit in Calpe to make the most of this charming seaside town.
- The Peñon de Ifach: This is the iconic symbol of Calpe. At 332 metres high, it is an impressive rock formation that rises majestically from the sea. You can hike to the top for spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
- The beaches: Calpe has beautiful golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. La Fossa beach is very popular and offers a wide range of services and water activities. You can also explore other beaches such as the Morelló cove or the Manzanera beach for a quieter atmosphere.
- Old Town: The historic centre of Calpe is charming and picturesque. Its cobbled streets, traditional houses and old church create a nostalgic atmosphere. You can stroll through the old town to enjoy its architecture and discover local shops, restaurants and cosy bars.
- The port: The port of Calpe is a lively and picturesque place where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll by the sea. Here you will find a wide variety of seafood restaurants, bars and shops. It is also a good place to watch the fishing boats and enjoy the sea breeze.
- Las Salinas: This is a protected natural area where sea salt is extracted in a traditional way. Las Salinas de Calpe offer a beautiful view of the salt water ponds and the pink flamingos that inhabit the area. You can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the peace and quiet of this natural environment.
- Museo del Coleccionismo: If you are interested in history and art, don’t miss the Museo del Coleccionismo in Calpe. This small museum houses an interesting collection of ancient artefacts and objects that show the history and culture of the region.
- Calpe Market: If you want to experience authentic local life, visit the Calpe market. Here you will find a wide variety of fresh produce such as fruit, vegetables, fish and seafood. It is the perfect place to buy local ingredients and taste the delicious gastronomy of the area.
- Mirador Monte Toix: This viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views of Calpe and its surroundings. From here, you can admire the coastal landscape, the Peñon de Ifach and the impressive cliffs. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset and capture breathtaking photographs.
- Parque Natural de las Marinas: If you love nature, you will love to visit the Parque Natural de las Marinas. Here you will find nature trails that wind along the coast, allowing you to explore beautiful landscapes and discover the local flora and fauna.
- Las Calas: In addition to the main beaches, Calpe also boasts beautiful coves that are perfect for those looking for a quieter and more secluded environment. Cala El Racó, Cala Les Urques and Cala Mallorquà are just some of the coves you can explore to enjoy the serenity and natural beauty.
- Peñón de Ifach Natural Park: This protected natural park surrounding the Peñón de Ifach is a paradise for nature lovers. Here you will find trails that will take you through diverse Mediterranean vegetation and you will be able to observe a great variety of birds and autochthonous species.
- The Roman Calpe Walls: For history enthusiasts, the Roman Calpe Walls are a fascinating archaeological site. These ancient Roman walls bear witness to the town’s glorious past and offer an insight into life in Roman times.
- Parque de la Vallesa: This urban park is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of Calpe. It has extensive green areas, playgrounds, walking trails and a great diversity of flora and fauna.
- La Casa de Cultura: If you are interested in art and culture, you cannot miss the Casa de Cultura of Calpe. This cultural centre hosts art exhibitions, concerts, plays and other cultural activities throughout the year.
- The Calpe Lighthouse: Situated at the end of the port, the Calpe Lighthouse is a picturesque spot offering panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding area. You can enjoy a pleasant walk to the lighthouse and capture stunning photographs.
- La Ermita de San Salvador: This hermitage is a place of historical and religious interest in Calpe. Situated on the top of a hill, it offers spectacular views of the town and the sea. You can visit it and appreciate the architecture and the tranquillity of the place.
- The Marina “Les Basetes”: If you like the sea and water activities, the marina “Les Basetes” is the ideal place. Here you can enjoy sports such as diving, sailing and kayaking, as well as relaxing in the restaurants and bars overlooking the sea.
- Fiestas and festivals: Calpe is known for its lively fiestas and festivals throughout the year. During the patron saint festivities in honour of the Virgen de las Nieves in August, you can enjoy parades, music, fireworks and cultural events that will immerse you in local tradition.
These are just some of the many things to see and do in Calpe. Whether you are looking for beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, historical culture or just relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle, Calpe has a lot to offer, so don’t hesitate to explore this wonderful place!
Where to eat in Calpe?
In Calpe, you will find several areas where you can enjoy a wide gastronomic offer. Here are some of the main areas where you can find restaurants and bars to eat in Calpe:
- Old Town: The old town of Calpe is a charming and picturesque place, where you will find cobbled streets and traditional houses. Here you will find a large number of restaurants offering traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. You can enjoy typical dishes such as paella, tapas and fresh fish in a cosy and authentic atmosphere.
- Paseo MarÃtimo: Along the promenade of Calpe, you will find a wide variety of restaurants and bars overlooking the sea. This area is perfect for enjoying lunch and dinner by the beach, while enjoying fresh seafood dishes, paellas and Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the sea while you savour your meal.
- Calpe Port: The port is another popular area for eating out in Calpe. Here you will find a wide selection of restaurants offering fresh seafood and fish straight from the sea. You can enjoy a meal overlooking the fishing boats and the lively atmosphere of the port.
- Playa de la Fossa: Playa de la Fossa, one of Calpe’s most popular beaches, has a large number of restaurants and chiringuitos (beach bars) along its promenade. Here you can enjoy a meal with sea views and a wide variety of culinary options ranging from traditional dishes to international cuisine.
- Coves and Viewpoints: Calpe also has beautiful coves and viewpoints where you can enjoy panoramic views while enjoying a meal. Some of the coves, such as Cala El Racó and Cala Les Urques, have restaurants offering Mediterranean dishes and fresh seafood. You can also find viewpoints such as the Mirador Monte Toix, where you can enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views.
These are just some of the outstanding areas where you can find restaurants in Calpe. The town has a great gastronomic offer and you will be able to find options for all tastes and budgets. Explore and discover new places to enjoy the delicious food that Calpe has to offer. Enjoy your meal!