In the heart of the province of Alicante, on the Costa Blanca, Calpe is a Spanish seaside resort. More than half of its inhabitants are of foreign origin. And for good reason, since it is above all tourism that keeps the village alive. When you arrive in Calpe, you can't miss the Peñón de Ifach, a rocky peak made of limestone that flows into the Mediterranean. This extraordinary natural monument immediately announces the colour: everything is different in Calpe and the sensations are intense. The fine sandy beaches stretch for miles while the azure blue sky highlights the treetops. The marina has an insolent charm and countless beach bars dot the coastline from La Fossa to l'Arenal.

The festive atmosphere is permanent in Calpe. Cow races, St. John's Day (or "San Juan") fires, Moorish and Christian festivals, votive festivals (especially the "Fallas" in honour of St. Joseph): there are many opportunities for passing tourists to witness local folklore. The different influences of the peoples who colonized this region, from the Iberians to the Romans and the Phoenicians, blend to create an enriching and cosmopolitan cocktail. The ancient 15th century fortifications that surround the city recall this heritage of the past, as does the keep. On either side of the historic centre there are vineyards. The wines of the province of Alicante are a perfect match for the must-have dishes of local cuisine, such as octopus stew, rice with white beans and turnips topped with chard or even the many fish dishes.

If you are staying for several days in Calpe, do not hesitate to take a trip to the Montgó Natural Park, which is located between the cities of Denia and Jávea. In particular, you will be able to discover the limestone escarpments characteristic of the region as well as the hundred-year-old oaks.

PROVINCE OF ALICANTE

In the south of the Valencian Community, the province of Alicante offers the promise of a successful holiday. A land of tradition, celebration and sunshine, its beaches on the Costa Blanca will delight water sports fans and culture lovers will be impressed by its many monuments.

Facing the Mediterranean, the eponymous capital of the province of Alicante, resembles a city on the French Riviera: beach in the city centre, long promenade lined with palm trees, large terraces of cafés and restaurants. And like the cities of the Côte d'Azur, Alicante has a historic centre that bears witness to past influences (Iberian, Roman, Arab). From the top of Santa Bárbara Castle, a fortress founded by the Arabs, you will have a panoramic view of the city and the sea. At its feet, the old town offers you a pleasant stroll in its pedestrian alleys. You will discover the cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari, the provincial archaeological museum (MARQ) and the museum of contemporary art (MACA) which contains works by Miró, Picasso, Dali...

Alternating impressive cliffs and large fine sandy beaches, the Costa Blanca offers 220 kilometres of coastline. Enough to find the ideal place to relax or to enjoy your favorite boating activity! Some beaches are very popular, such as those of Benidorm, Calpe or Alicante, others are quieter, such as those surrounding Denia in the north of the province. The latter are ideal for windsurfing, thanks to their strong winds, and offer superb diving spots (underwater reserves of Cape San Antonio). If you prefer to discover the hinterland, take the many trails that run through it and visit the charming villages of Guadalest, Busot or Bocairente.

Also take advantage of your stay in the province of Alicante to see some of the must-see sites. In Elche, visit the Museum of Archaeology and History (MAHE) and the extraordinary palm grove with more than 200,000 plants and the Jardin du Curé, a beautiful plant and landscape trail. Discover Orihuela for its rich Gothic and Baroque heritage, Villena for its castle of Arab origin, Novelda for its sanctuary Santa María Magdalena, Jijona for its Turrón Museum, a confectionery made with almonds and honey that resembles nougat. And don't leave the province without tasting its other culinary specialities: paella, esmorzaret alacanti, olleta, coca boba...

Do not miss

The Penyal d'Ifac Natural Park just a stone's throw away

Treat yourself to a beautiful hike to the top of this imposing rock or admire the salt marshes at its feet.

Benissa - 10 km

Let yourself be captivated by its 4 km of coastline where the horizon and the blue of the sea mix in perfect harmony.

Benidorm - 25 km

Renowned for its beaches and lively nightlife, the city is one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean.