Calpe

Set in stunning natural setting, and protected by the surrounding mountains, Calpe maintains its tradition and charm of the old town with its narrow streets and the harbour with its fishing fleet and seafood restaurants and the bustling Saturday market. Calpe is a town rich in history and culture, and also has archeological interest. The old town walls and the church know as Iglesia Vieja are well worth seeing. This church is the only remaining example of Mudejar-Gothic architecture within Valencia. Alongside the Paseo Maritimo are the recently discovered remains of a Roman Villa forming part of the the Roman fish factory. Overlooking the Mascarat ravine are the ruins of the Castle of Calpe and all over the local countryside are the typical rui-rau houses, with arched porticos for raisin drying.

Calpe has a wonderful modern marina that sits alongside the old fishing habour. From here it is possible to take boat rides around the impressive Penon de Ifach which rises out of the sea to reach 332 m high, and is now a nature reserve, and to the resort of Benidorm. One of the best ways to view the local coastline is by means of a narrow gauge railway called the "Lemon train" that runs from Alicante to Denia and stops at Calpe.

Calpe alone has three of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the coast, stretching either side of Penon de Ifach, with clear blue sea and a backdrop of breathtaking hills.

The location of Calpe is easily accessed by the A7 motorway and N332 that runs from Valencia to Alicante, thus allowing you to explore the surrounding area without having to venture too far.

The beautiful small towns of Altea and Benissa are just a few kilometres drive away and both have stunning views along the way. The larger towns of Denia, Javea and Benidorm are all within 30 minutes by car or train.

Your sightseeing tour must include a trip into the enchanting city of Valencia. All these places are explained in more detail in our tourism section.