Calpe, Costa Blanca, Spain

Calpe

The largest rock in the Mediterranean, Calpe is a twenty-minute drive further along from Benidorm. The volcanic boulder is known as Penon de Ifach (rock of Ifach) towers to over 335meters and is the largest rock in Mediterranean. It resembles the rock of Gibraltar, situated further south, so much that the Phoenicians gave it the name of the Northern Rock in order to differentiate it. Now it's a Nature Reserve due to its rare plants and the colonies of sea birds that reside there.

The town of Calpe was originally a fishing village and still retains its identity through the local fish market held at the port each afternoon and the Saturday market that simply buzzes with activity.

The three golden beaches sweep around the coast ending at the rock. The modern promenade lined with café bars and restaurants allows you to wander along the length of the seafront taking in the large marina and the old fishing port.

For the best views of the town, you can hike up the rock, through a tunnel carved out of the stone. From the top there is a marvellous vista.

Distance from Villa Ellis: 30 minutes by car

What's nearby...

We have written a little about the following places that are nearby to give you a taste of what you can do on your holiday.