If you’re looking to get away for a little Spanish sizzle without being overrun by crowds, Calpe, on the beautiful Costa Blanca, offers the perfect balance of relaxation, natural beauty and authentic laidback culture. It’s possible you’ve never heard of it, but it’s a pretty safe bet you’ve heard of its most famous geological feature – the Rock of Ifach. Ah yes, that place.
Aside from the famous rock, this is actually one of the loveliest places on the Costa Blanca – it’s home to some gorgeous safe beaches, picture perfect ocean views and a lush nature reserve. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for the entire extended family, but if you’re just looking to relax, get away from it all and enjoy some gentle activities, you’ve chosen the right place as well.
Beautiful Beaches
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to a day at the beach in Calpe. From well-facilitated stretches close to restaurants and promenades, to tranquil, remote coves in a world of their own, you can pick a beach to match your mood. Consider these, although there are plenty more:
- La Fossa: If you’re looking for a day on a sunbed, with restaurants and cafes within arms’ reach, the Blue Flag La Fossa delivers all that and more, including crystal clear water and a front row seat to the Rock of Ifach. Playa del Arenal-Bol (on the opposite side of the rock) offers the same kind of ambience.
- Cala les Bassetes: For something completely different, but still with those fabulous views of the rock, you could head over to Cala les Bassetes, where it’s much quieter and less popular with tourists. It’s a wonderful place to spread out your towel and just contemplate the gentle waves.
Wander Around the Old Town
It’s Spain, after all, so there’s not much more enjoyable than simply strolling around taking in the local culture. The best place to get a feel for the history of Calpe is the charming old town, where you can wander the jumble of cobbled streets and take in the architecture and sights and sounds of daily life. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes and just walk – but don’t forget there are a few things to keep an eye out for.
- The brightly coloured murals and mosaics that pop up in unexpected places
- The vibrant craft market (only on Sundays)
- The ancient city walls, particularly Torreó de la Pęca, a piece of fifteenth-century artillery
- The Archaeological Museum, where you can learn more about the town’s interesting history
Visit the Fish Market and Fish Auction
A visit to the Fish Market, down at the port, offers a real slice of local life – and it’s also a whole lot of fun! Even if you’re not a fan of seafood, you can appreciate the atmosphere of the daily auction, which is one of the most treasured and enduring traditions of the town.
Every Monday to Friday at around five o’clock, the auction begins as the fishing boats ‘line up’ and slowly enter the port to unload and sell their catch of the day. The system is a little more modern than in the old days, but the concept is the same and it’s a really entertaining experience to enjoy whether you’re a potential buyer or just a spectator.
If this doesn’t tempt you to wander off for an early fish supper at one of the port restaurants, nothing will.
Where to Stay
AR Diamante Beach Spa: With its elegant décor and proximity to the beach, the lovely AR Diamante Beach Spa provides a relaxing stay in an unbeatable spot. You’ll be close to all the attractions of the seafront promenade, but will also have the option to enjoy the facilities, like the onsite restaurant, piano bar and three pools. It’s your ideal home away from home in Calpe!
Hotel RH Ifach: The very impressive RH Ifach offers spacious rooms, excellent facilities and delightful views over the famous rock. All the rooms have their own balcony to sit on and relax, or you can head down to either of the two onsite restaurants. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy the lovely heated indoor one, complete with a hot tub. All this – and you’re just a couple of hundred metres from the beach.
How to Get There
Don’t worry about the logistics of getting to Calpe because it’s super easy. There are at least eight airlines that offer direct flights from the UK into Alicante Airport, with a breezy flight time of 2 hours and 20 minutes. Whatever time of day suits you best, you’ll be able to find a convenient flight.
I always find that the best way to start a holiday in Calpe off just right is to pre-book your ground transport with Shuttle Direct before leaving home. If you organise a private shuttle to pick you up, you’ll be able to get from Alicante Airport to Calpe without delay – straight to the door of your accommodation in around an hour.
Overview
- UK to Alicante Airport Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Alicante Airport (ALC) to Calpe: 77 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour
About Shuttle Direct
If you’re looking for the most convenient way to get from the airport to the door of your accommodation, pre-book a private transfer with Shuttle Direct and we’ll take care of the details so you needn’t. As one of the most trusted names in airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa, you can make a simple online booking before you leave home and rest assured that we will get you wherever you need to go.
