Calpe is a coastal municipality located in the comarca of
Marina Alta, on the Costa Blanca. It is located 65 km from Alicante and 12 km
from Valencia, in between Altea and Moraira, and nearby Benissa, Benitachell
and Javea.
The town lies at the foot of the Penyal d'Ifac Natural Park. The Penyal d'Ifac is a massive limestone
outcrop emerging from the sea and linked to the shore by an isthmus of rock
debris. It is home to numerous rare plants and a nesting site for colonies of
sea birds and other birds. Rising to 332 metres in height, the rock is a
striking visual feature of the Mediterranean coastline.
Many Iberian, Roman and Arab archaeological sites exist in
the town because of the strategic coastal location.
Calpe offers more than 12 km of coast, with long beaches or small hidden coves, which are another of its many attractions.
Calpe has two urban beaches. The Platja de l'Arenal-Bol, to the west of the
Penyal d'Ifach, is characterised by over a kilometre of fine sand and is has a
pleasant tree-lined promenade. The Platja de la Fossa, to the northwest, also
offers a nice promenade with view over the Penyal d'Ifac.
