Calpe
- In the shadow of the imposing Rock of Ifach
Calpe is located a 20 minute drive from Cumbre Del Sol, just
North of Altea along the N-332. A former fishing village, it is easy to find
lying at the base of the Peñon de Ifach (Rock of Ifach), a huge volcanic rock
jutting out into the sea and towering over the village to a height of 335 m.
The village itself is a village of contrasts where the traditional fishing
village and bustling port combine well with modern roads and architecture. The
fish auction at the port every afternoon at the port is a lively and popular
event.
Calpe
boasts a long Paseo Maritimo (seaside promenade) lined with bars and
restaurants, and several kilometres of fine sandy beaches. The
two main safe and sheltered beaches have excellent leisure facilities,
including sailing, windsurfing and diving centres
Rock of Ifach
The Peñon de Ifach (Rock of Ifach) is the largest single rock
in the Mediterranean. It has been a Nature reserve since 1987 and provides
shelter for a number of rare plants and colonies of sea birds. The more lively
visitor might choose to shin up the path to the peak, which is some 330 metres
high, however you can also walk through the tunnel which leads to the top, from
where you have breathtaking views of the surrounding villages and countryside -
you can even see across to Ibiza on a clear day!
It was called the Northern Rock by the Phoenicians to
distinguish it from the Southern Rock at Gibraltar.
Fiestas in Calpe
Fallas de San José - Feast of St. Joseph - 19th March
Big statues of wood and cardboard are burnt at Midnight on
the 19th March on the feast of St. Joseph to celebrate the beginning of Spring.
There is a procession through the streets of the old town, a giant paella in
Constitution square, sardines and sangria for all present and a firework
display at Midnight.
Moros y Cristianos - the Moors and Christians Festival - 21st
to 24th October.
Caple celebrates its own Patron Saint 'Santisimo Cristo del
Sudor' and the Moors and Christians festival at the same time. Legend has it
that Santisimo Cristo del Sudor helped protect the village as the Moors tried
to enter. Two battles are re-enacted along the beaches and in a mock castle,
specially constructed for the occasion. There are musical acts, fireworks and
plenty of food and drink for all.