Tourism is one of Calpe’s defining characteristics. This town on the Costa Blanca is chosen every year by thousands of people from all over the world to enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation. Its main attractions? The sun, the beach and the local cuisine. That being said, history and nature also play a central role.
Peñón de Ifach, a hallmark of Calpe and its tourism
This landform is a defining feature of Calpe in Alicante. Its highest peak rises 330 metres above sea level, while the small cape it forms divides the town’s coastline in two. This promontory is home to numerous hiking trails and offers a real challenge for climbing enthusiasts. From its summit, you can gaze out at incredible views, making it a must-see attraction if you’re staying in the town.
Beaches in Calpe
Many of the tourists that flock to Calpe each year are attracted by its beaches. What’s more, even in summer, there are plenty of options to choose from to enjoy a pleasant, relaxing day. All the sandy beaches are covered in fine golden sand, with waters of spectacular quality. Without a doubt, you’ll be tempted to take a dip or two.
Three of the town’s beaches come especially recommended, awarded blue-flag certification. This award is only given to beaches with facilities that are universally suitable and accessible. These are the beaches of Arenal-Bol, La Fossa and Cantal Roig.
Calpe’s old quarter and its Plaza Mayor
Another of this small Mediterranean town’s tourist attractions is its old quarter. Though today its growth has turned Calpe into a modern, cosmopolitan location, its narrow cobbled streets still preserve the charm and character of yesteryear.
Many of these streets are decorated by its residents with different types of plants throughout the year. This creates a particularly welcoming atmosphere, especially when the flowers start to blossom in spring. If you’re not sure what to see in Calpe, the Calpe tourist office has put together a tourist route including all the points of interest in the area.
Calpe’s Plaza Mayor is also worth a visit. With its exceptional views of the Peñón, this square is home to a very particular kind of architecture. It was designed in 1997 and has undergone minimal changes since then. In the middle of the square you’ll see a large fountain, with an underground car park hidden below its cobbles where you can conveniently leave your car if you fancy visiting the centre.
Calpe Salt Flats Natural Park
This place is sure to captivate all nature enthusiasts. The salt flats are incredibly biodiverse, with the iconic pink flamingos as their most representative birds. What’s more, it’s the perfect place to observe a range of different species or even take pictures of them from the lookout point.
The salt flats have been seamlessly integrated into the urban ecosystem, as the town has developed around them. Nevertheless, they still cover a natural area spanning more than 40 hectares. Today, a circular route allows you to explore them in their entirety and spot the more than 170 species that pass through this location throughout the year.
Fish Market
The town’s fish market is located next to the fishing port. Every morning, it transforms into a place brimming with action. The local fishermen offer their daily catch at wholesale prices, with many of these ending up in local restaurants throughout the day, allowing you to sample fish and seafood of the highest quality.
Festivals and events
A host of different celebrations are organised in this town every year. Just like in other Mediterranean locations, one of the most famous events is the Moros y Cristianos festival. However, tourists also flock to the town for its patron-saint festivals, held in honour of Our Lady of the Snows.
Throughout the rest of the year, there are many more activities to suit all audiences. The Three Kings Parade marks the beginning of the year and is always great fun for the little ones in the family. You can also enjoy the gunpowder and fireworks shows during the Fallas festival.
Another date to mark on your calendar is Saint John’s Day. Bonfires light up the shortest night of the year, attracting flocks of youngsters to the beach for a night filled with excitement between the heat of the fire and the cool sea breeze.
Come and discover Calpe’s tourist attractions
Calpe and tourism have always gone hand in hand and, over the past few years, this sector has grown exponentially. This is due, in part, to the way the town combines natural beauty with its culture, history and traditions. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean coast offers up the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday. At Sol Habitat, we offer the best accommodation so that you can enjoy your stay to the fullest.
