Calpe is a town of approximately 29,000 people located in the South East of Spain, in the district known as the Costa Blanca. The town has been influenced by many different Mediterranean cultures. The Romans, Phoenicians and Iberians were all at some time the rulers in this part of Spain.
This long history of different cultures can be seen in the variety of architectural styles that are prevalent throughout the town. For example, Calpe’s old town is still surrounded by the ancient city walls which date from the 15th century. This area was a target for pirates and the walls would be a first line of defence. In the Moorish district of El Arrabal, can be seen the Tower of Peca, which dates from the Arab occupation of the Middle Ages.
Other significant religious monuments are the 18th century Ermita del Salvador, which, from its hilltop location, offers good views across the bay area, and the church of the Virgin of the Snow. The latter is the sole remaining example of a temple in the Gothic-mudejar style in Calpe.
Calpes’ more modern attractions are typical of the region. There is a yacht marina, promenade and many beaches and coves to be explored. It has two sandy beaches and sports such as tracking, climbing, sailing, tennis and diving are available most of the year. The main beach is the Playa del Arenal which stretches for over 2 km.
A well-known attraction of Calpe is the Penon de Ifach. This is a huge rock some 332 meters high and it extends for a full kilometre out to sea within a National Park area. A tunnel was built in 1918 to provide access to the summit of the rock for visitors to reach the summit of the rock. From here it is possible to look out to sea to the Balearic Islands.
The climate is typically Mediterranean with long hours of sunshine and low rainfall.
The closest airport to Calpe is Alicante (El Altet) airport, about 50 kilometres (33 miles) away.
