Calpe and the Penon de Ifach

The Penon de Ifach is the Costa Blanca's most recognisable natural landmark: a mighty block of limestone, about 332 metres high, that juts into the Mediterranean from the edge of Calpe like a miniature Gibraltar. The rock is protected as a natural park, and a signposted trail climbs through a short tunnel to a summit viewpoint, where on a clear day you see Calpe's coast, the cliffs of Moraira and far across the sea. Calpe itself is a mix of busy resort and working fishing port, with a long beach on either side of the rock, an old quarter on the hill and an active fish auction. Salt flats behind the town, the Salinas, are home to flamingos and other birds at some times of year. A day tour from Alicante that combines Altea and Calpe is a good way to see the coast without driving; you stroll Altea's lanes, then continue to Calpe for time on the beach, a walk beside the rock or lunch at the port. Active visitors can take on the trail to the viewpoint, while others enjoy the promenade views.

The Ifach trail is moderate. The first section is a wide path and the upper section has steps and rock, with a tunnel near the top. It takes about an hour each way for fit walkers, and the final summit section can be closed depending on conditions and park rules. Wear shoes with good grip and carry water, because there is no shade near the top. Park rules limit dogs and some activities, and visitor numbers can be controlled in peak periods, so check access on the day.

At the foot of the rock the Cala Fosca and Arenal-Bol beaches provide places to swim, and the working port nearby is the right place for a seafood lunch. The Salinas, a short walk inland, are quiet and flat, popular with birdwatchers and cyclists. In the old quarter, the Torreó de la Peça and the Church of Nuestra Senora de las Nieves give a historical counterpoint to the high-rises along the beach.

As a day trip, Calpe pairs naturally with Altea. The tour approach gives you a driver and a plan, and you decide how to spend your free time. If you have more time, stay overnight and climb the rock at dawn, when the light on the cliff is superb and the trail is cooler.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for walking; July and August are best for swimming. Visitors with limited mobility can still enjoy the waterfront promenade, the port and the beach, which are flat and accessible. Whether you climb or simply look, the rock gives the coast a dramatic profile that is hard to forget.

If you plan to climb, start early and carry at least a litre of water per person. Stay on the marked trail, since the park protects rare plants and nesting birds, and follow any signs about closed sections. After the descent, the best reward is a plate of grilled fish or rice at the port, where the restaurants buy from the boats that unload in the afternoon.

For those who prefer a gentler day, rent a sun lounger on the beach at the foot of the rock, walk the promenade at sunset or visit the salt flats for a quiet birdwatching hour. Whichever you choose, Calpe is a rewarding stop.