The Peñón de Ifach, the birdlife of the salt flats and historic landmarks each offer a different perspective on a trip to Calpe. If you’d like to combine nature, coastal paths and culture, you’ll find specific places to visit here—from a seasonal underwater trail to traces of the town’s fishing history.
Scenery and trails around the Peñón
The Peñón de Ifach is a limestone rock covering about 50,000 m², rising 332 metres and stretching one kilometre in length. Its plant community includes nearly 300 species, including Valencian endemics that are among the most endangered plants in the Iberian flora. A route around the Peñón has two sections and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes; check the duration and conditions before setting out.
The Paseo Ecológico is made of natural stone, covers 30,600 m² and extends for almost one kilometre. Along the route, planted areas, palm trees and various plant species alternate with viewpoints on natural breakwaters. From there, you can look out over the steep walls of the Peñón, native flora and fauna, and the Mediterranean Sea.
The Paseo Princesa de Asturias starts at Cala El Racó, at the foot of the Peñón and near the fishing port. During the summer season, visitors can also use an adapted underwater trail in this cove: it is 120 metres long and has nine information panels located about one metre below the water’s surface. The installation may vary by season; check the current dates in advance.
Birdwatching at the salt flats
Las Salinas de Calpe is a lagoon of tombolo origin, formed through the development of a double beach ridge. An adapted, easy-to-access semicircular path is available for birdwatching. Up to 173 breeding and migratory bird species have been recorded in the area; observations may change over time. Path conditions may also vary seasonally, so it is worth checking for updates before your visit.
Traces of fishing and history
At Forat de la Mar, openings in Calpe’s walls tell the story of the town in the 18th century. They were made after the pirate threat ended, providing access to the Arrabal. In the past, fishing boat crews gathered here every morning to assess the state of the sea and decide whether they could set out. The name Torreó de la Peça, meanwhile, recalls a fort that was demolished in the 20th century and once housed a cannon.
The Iglesia Antigua was built in the early 15th century over an older chapel. The fortified building combines Gothic and Mudéjar architecture; originally, it served both religious and defensive purposes. Inside is a 15th-century tempera panel depicting Saint Anthony Abbot and Saints Cosmas and Damian. Another glimpse into the past can be found at the Alquería of Calp, which was fortified between the 13th and 14th centuries. Access to its citadel was through a single entrance, known as El Portalet.
Baños de la Reina is a Roman coastal site in a quiet cove sheltered by the Peñón de Ifach. Its features include Roman architectural design and mosaics. The pools carved into the coastal rocks were used to supply fresh fish and gave the site its name. The Museo de Historia de Calp preserves Bronze Age artefacts from the Cosentari site, including bowls, grinding stones and sickles.
Visits and local traditions
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 visiting arrangements before you go. At the Lonja y subasta de pescado in Calp, visitors can watch the wholesale sale of fresh fish caught daily by Calp’s fishing fleet. As visitor rules and operating details may change, it is advisable to check the current visiting arrangements in advance.
The Moros y Cristianos Santísimo Cristo del Sudor festival is also part of Calpe’s history: it has been celebrated there since 1977. Details of the programme may vary from year to year.
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