Calpe: Peñón de Ifach and salt lake
- Driving time
- About 1 hour 40 minutes by car
- Area
- Marina Alta
- Town
Calpe is a seaside town at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach, a huge rock in the sea. It is about 1 hour 40 minutes by car from Lago Rosa Apartment.
You can see the Peñón de Ifach from far off. At its foot is a visitor centre on the plants and animals of the rock, and if you want to reach the summit you need to book ahead. Do that in good time if it is your main reason for coming.
Lower and easier is the path round the salinas, the salt lake in the middle of town. The path is flat and comfortable, and the water is a refuge for waterbirds. Bring binoculars if you have them.
On the promenade are the Baños de la Reina, a Roman complex of pools and channels where you can also swim, with the 19th century Molino del Morelló beside them. The old town is worth a walk too, with picturesque streets, remains of the 13th century wall, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Nieves and the Museo de Historia de Calp.
Beaches
Arenal-Bol and La Fossa are both sandy beaches with full services, on either side of the rock.
Markets
Saturday morning for the big market with clothes on Avenida de Rumanía, and fruit and vegetables by the historic centre. Wednesday morning for the flea market on Avenida del País Valencià.
Top of the Peñón
The climb is by booking only. Ask at the visitor centre what is possible that day and bring sturdy shoes.
Frequently asked questions
Can you just climb the Peñón de Ifach?
No, you need to book ahead for the summit.
Can you swim at the Baños de la Reina?
Yes, the Roman pools are on the promenade and you can bathe there.
What day is the market in Calpe?
Saturday morning for the market, and Wednesday morning for the flea market.
