An intro about Calpe

Calpe is a lively coastal town on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante, in southeastern Spain. The town is best known for its imposing rock formation, the Peñón de Ifach, which rises from the Mediterranean like a natural sentinel. Calpe effortlessly combines its rich history with modern amenities, making it a popular destination for tourists and permanent residents alike. With a population of over 22,000 that increases significantly during the high season, Calpe has become a full-fledged town with every imaginable facility.

Its coastal location, mild Mediterranean climate, and excellent accessibility via the nearby Alicante airport make Calpe attractive to both vacationers and emigrants. The city has a special charm thanks to the mix of authentic Spanish culture and international influences. Besides beautiful beaches and natural beauty, you will also find modern apartments, shopping centers, schools and a wide range of sports and leisure facilities. This makes Calpe a versatile destination for families, retirees, students and investors.

Calpe offers a combination of tranquility, comfort and liveliness, making it one of the most popular towns on the Costa Blanca.

History of Calpe

The history of Calpe dates back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds in the caves of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Peñón de Ifach. In ancient times, the area was inhabited by the Iberians, and later the Romans also settled in the region. They left traces in the form of villas, bath houses and salt pans, some of which are still visible today, such as at the Banos de la Reina.

In the Middle Ages, Calpe played a strategic role in defending the coastline against pirate attacks. During this period, among other things, the Torreó de la Peça was built, a tower that can still be admired in the old town center. The town slowly grew into a fishing village, with fishing and salt extraction being of great economic importance.

Only in the twentieth century did Calpe begin to develop into a tourist destination. The construction of infrastructure, hotels and the promotion of its beaches attracted first national and then international visitors. Today, together with real estate development and services, tourism is Calpe's economic engine, without losing sight of its historical identity.

Facilities in Calpe

Medical care

Calpe has excellent medical facilities. In the town you will find both public health centers and private clinics, equipped with modern medical equipment and offering a wide range of specialties. The main public health center is the Centro de Salud Calpe, which is part of the regional health network. In addition, there are numerous private clinics such as Clinica San Carlos and Hospital IMED Levante in the vicinity, where you can go for emergency care, specialized treatments and diagnostics.

For emergencies, there is good cooperation with hospitals in the region, such as the Hospital Marina Baixa in Villajoyosa or the Hospital de Denia. The town also has a large number of pharmacies open seven days a week. There are also several residential care centers and home care services operating for the elderly and people with chronic conditions. The wide range of care facilities makes Calpe a safe and pleasant place to live even for retirees.

Education

Calpe has a well-developed educational offer for all ages. There are several elementary school such as CEIP Gabriel Miró and CEIP Azorín, which offer instruction in Spanish and Valencian. For secondary education, young people can attend IES Ifach, among others. These schools are public and funded by the state.

There are also international schools such as The Lady Elizabeth School, located a short distance from Calpe, which teaches in English and follows an international curriculum. This also makes Calpe attractive to expat families. For special education, there are specialized institutions in nearby cities such as Benidorm and Alicante, where customized guidance is offered.

Although Calpe itself has no university, there are several universities within a 100-kilometer radius, including the University of Alicante and the Polytechnic University of Valencia. Students living in Calpe can therefore commute to their educational institutions relatively easily.

Shopping in Calpe

Shopping in Calpe is a versatile experience. You can choose between modern shopping centers, local boutiques and traditional markets. In the center of Calpe you will find a wide range of stores, ranging from clothing stores and shoe stores to jewelers and electronics stores. Large chains such as Mercadona, Lidl and Consum are represented for daily shopping, but there are also many specialty stores with fresh produce and local delicacies.

The weekly market on Saturday mornings is particularly popular. Here you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, crafts, clothing and handicrafts. The Avenida Gabriel Miró is also a well-known shopping street, where you will find cozy cafes and restaurants in addition to stores.

In addition, there are several shopping centers near Calpe, such as La Marina in Finestrat, which is easily accessible by car. For more exclusive fashion and luxury goods, visit cities such as Alicante or Valencia. The shopping offer in Calpe offers something for everyone and adds to the comfort of everyday life.

Sports in Calpe

Sport plays an important role in the daily life of Calpe and contributes to the active lifestyle of its inhabitants. Thanks to the pleasant climate, outdoor sports can be enjoyed here all year round. Calpe has several sports facilities, including a municipal sports center with tennis courts, padel courts, soccer fields, athletics tracks and an indoor pool.

The coastline and the sea offer plenty of opportunities for water sports. These include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and diving. The Bassetes Marina is a popular base for water sports enthusiasts. There are also several diving schools and boat rentals operating in town. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are well-maintained bicycle paths and hiking trails, such as the famous Ruta Ecologica Calalga.

The Peñón de Ifach also attracts athletic visitors, as this iconic rock is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. For fitness enthusiasts, there are several gyms, yoga studios and outdoor fitness parks.

Calpe is also known for hosting sporting events, such as running races, cycling tours and beach volleyball tournaments. The town has hosted professional cycling teams several times, holding their spring training here. In short, Calpe offers something suitable for every sports enthusiast.

Living in Calpe

Living in Calpe means living in a Mediterranean city with a unique character and an exceptionally pleasant climate. The combination of nature, sea, culture and infrastructure makes Calpe an attractive place to live for a variety of target groups. Whether you are a family looking for a safe environment with schools and sports facilities, a retiree who wants to enjoy peace and comfort, or a digital nomad looking for an inspiring place with modern amenities - Calpe has it all.

What makes Calpe special is the balance between tranquility and activity. The town is lively all year round, but not overly busy. You can live here in an apartment overlooking the sea or in a detached villa in a quiet neighborhood with lots of greenery. The local government invests a lot in infrastructure and maintenance, which keeps the town clean and livable.

Living in Calpe is also known for its safety and sense of community. There is an active international community, which facilitates integration for newcomers. Moreover, the cost of living is lower than in major cities such as Madrid or Barcelona, while the quality of life is high. Calpe thus offers an ideal combination of affordability, comfort and quality of life.

Popular neighborhoods in Calpe

Calpe has several neighborhoods, each with its own character and target group. For families, the neighborhoods of Gargasindi and Cometa-Carrió are particularly attractive. These neighborhoods are located in a quiet area with lots of greenery, close to schools, sports facilities and supermarkets. The presence of wide streets and playgrounds makes these neighborhoods ideal for children.

For students and young adults, the neighborhoods around the old center are interesting. Centro Histórico offers access to culture, nightlife and affordable rental housing. Although Calpe has no university, students who commute to Alicante or Valencia also live here.

Investors often focus on Playa de la Fossa and Puerto Blanco. These areas are particularly sought after because of their seaside location, tourist character and the high rentability of apartments. Modern apartment complexes are regularly built here that score well in terms of yield.

The Maryvilla neighborhood also deserves attention. Set against a hill, this neighborhood offers spectacular views of the sea and city. It is a popular place for those seeking luxury and privacy. Finally, La Canuta and Empedrola are popular neighborhoods for people who want to live just outside the hustle and bustle but still be in the center within ten minutes.

Nature and climate in Calpe

Calpe lies at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach, an impressive natural reserve that symbolizes the city. The Parque Natural del Peñón de Ifach offers hiking trails with panoramic views, unique flora and fauna and an unforgettable nature experience. In addition, Calpe lies on a coastline with several sand and pebble beaches such as Playa Arenal-Bol and Platja de la Fossa, which together offer kilometers of beach fun.

The town is also known for the Salinas de Calpe, a nature reserve with saltwater lagoons where flamingos breed. There are also several ecological hiking trails such as the Ruta Ecológica Calalga, which takes you past spectacular cliffs and pristine coves.

The climate in Calpe is Mediterranean and very pleasant. Summers are hot but rarely stifling, and winters are mild with many hours of sunshine. Annually, Calpe has more than 300 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. These climatic conditions make Calpe attractive not only for tourists, but also for people who want to live here permanently.

Emigrating to Calpe

Emigrating to Calpe is a dream come true for many. Thanks to its mild climate, good healthcare, and excellent accessibility, Calpe is a popular destination for northern Europeans, especially from the Netherlands, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Many emigrants choose neighborhoods such as Maryvilla, La Canuta, or Cometa-Carrió, because of their tranquility, views, and proximity to amenities.

Calpe is part of the autonomous region of Valencia, so you benefit from the region's social services and regulations. Many services are bilingual Spanish-Valencian, but there is a large network of English-speaking professionals active in real estate, legal advice and health care.

Life in the city of Valencia itself is more lively and metropolitan, but Calpe offers a quieter, more pleasant pace of life. The cost of living is, on average, lower than in Dutch cities. House prices vary widely, from affordable downtown apartments to luxury villas on the coast or in the hills.

For those looking to settle permanently, there are also Dutch-speaking assistance services available to help with administration, healthcare, tax matters and finding work. All these factors make emigrating to Calpe not only attractive, but also feasible and comfortable.

Investing in Calpe

Investing in Calpe is particularly interesting because of its stable real estate market, its appeal to tourists and the high rentability of properties. Vacation rental demand is particularly high in neighborhoods such as Playa de la Fossa, Puerto Blanco, Maryvilla and La Canuta. These neighborhoods are close to the sea, sights and amenities, ensuring high occupancy rates throughout the year.

The growth of tourism and Calpe's popularity with foreign buyers have led to a steady increase in property values. Modern apartment complexes and renovated villas offer investors excellent returns, both through short-term rentals and long-term value growth.

The municipality is also actively investing in infrastructure, which further supports property values. The legal process of property acquisition is transparent in Spain, if properly supervised. Local brokers offer packages including rental management, cleaning and customer service, making remote management easy.

With an increasing focus on sustainable tourism, ecological building projects are also on the rise. For investors with a long-term vision, Calpe offers a solid base with growth potential, supported by the attractiveness of its location, climate and international character.

What to do in Calpe

Calpe offers a wide range of attractions and activities that appeal to nature lovers, culture vultures and sporty vacationers alike. Below is an overview of the main attractions and activities in this diverse city.

1. Parque Natural del Peñón de Ifach This natural park surrounding the iconic limestone rock is one of the most recognizable sights on the Costa Blanca. You can hike here on well-marked trails and enjoy spectacular views of the sea, town and mountains along the way. The flora and fauna are unique to this area, and the climb to the top is challenging but well worth the effort.
2. Platja de la Fossa and Playa del Arenal Bol These two beaches are Calpe's most popular. Platja de la Fossa is family-friendly and surrounded by restaurants, stores and beach bars. Playa del Arenal Bol is closer to the center and has a wide boardwalk. Both beaches have fine sand, clear waters and are well maintained.
3. The medieval Torreó de la Peça Located in the old town center, this tower is a remnant of the defensive works from the Middle Ages. You will find a small museum that highlights the history of Calpe. It is a nice place for a short cultural break while strolling through the historic center.
4. Conjunto Arquológico Los Baños de la Reina This seaside archaeological site contains remains of Roman baths and fish pools. The name means "The Baths of the Queen" and refers to a local legend. You can walk along the ruins here and learn about the region's Roman past.
5. Mirador Morro de Toix This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Calpe, the sea and the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for photography and sunsets. The hiking trail to it is easy and accessible.
6. Llavador de la Font A historic public washing place that dates back to the time when locals came here to wash their clothes. Located near a natural spring, it makes a charming resting point while strolling through town.
7. Salinas de Calpe This nature reserve with salt lakes is located in the middle of the city. Here you can spot flamingos and other water birds. The area is accessible via hiking trails and offers a special combination of nature and urban landscape.
8. Ruta Ecológica Calalga This ecological hiking trail runs along the coast and offers impressive views, rock formations and access to secluded coves. The route is well marked and suitable for hikers of all levels.
9. Spanish flag steps An eye-catching photo spot in Calpe are the steps in the colors of the Spanish flag. This colorful location is a popular spot on social media and is within walking distance of the city center.
10. Fish Auction Calpe The fish auction in the port of Calpe is an authentic experience. Here you can watch fishermen land and trade their day's catch. The auction is open to visitors and gives a nice insight into the local economy.
11. Catamaran sailing From the port, catamaran excursions depart daily along the coast of Calpe. These trips offer relaxation at sea, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing on board.
12. Kayaking around the Rock of Calpe The coastline of Calpe lends itself perfectly to kayaking trips. For example, you can sail around the Peñón de Ifach and discover hidden caves and bays. Several rental points and guided tours are available.
13. Edificio La Muralla Roja This famous apartment complex, designed by Ricardo Bofill, is an architectural icon. Its red walls and geometric shapes are inspired by Arab kasbahs. Although it is a private complex, you can admire it from outside or book through vacation rentals.
14. The promenade of Calpe Along the beaches of Calpe runs a lively promenade full of restaurants, ice cream parlors, souvenir stores and terraces. It is the ideal place to stroll and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
15. The Russian Orthodox Church San Miguel Arcangel This church, located just outside Calpe, is built in traditional Russian style and offers a striking contrast to the rest of the town. Visitors are welcome and the church also organizes guided tours.
16. The ruins of Manzanera Here you will find remnants of medieval buildings that used to be part of a line of defense. The ruins are by the sea and are freely accessible, making it a nice place for a walk.
17. Snorkeling at Cala la Calalga This small cove is ideal for snorkelers. Its crystal clear waters and rocky surroundings make it a perfect location to spot marine animals. There is little current, making it suitable for beginners.
18. Bassetes Marina This smaller port is located just outside Calpe and is a quieter alternative to the main marina. You can rent a boat here, take sailing lessons or enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea.
19. La Muralla Roja In addition to being an architectural highlight, this building has also become a symbol of Calpe. Its pink, red and blue hues stand out brightly against the blue of the sky and sea. It is a popular location for photographers and architecture enthusiasts.
20. Edifici Xanadú Another striking design by Ricardo Bofill, which, like La Muralla Roja, is known for its unusual shapes and colors. The building is located close to the sea and is partly visible from the coastal walkways.

Calpe impressively manages to combine tradition and modernity. Whether you are visiting the city as a tourist, considering living there, investing or permanently emigrating: Calpe offers an exceptional quality of life, a rich cultural offer and unprecedented opportunities. The diversity of amenities, its beautiful seaside location, mild climate and lively character make Calpe not only an attractive destination, but also a place where one can truly feel at home.

Whether you choose to relax at the beach, take active walks through nature, soak up culture in the old town or experience local traditions: in Calpe you will find the right interpretation for every moment, season and stage of life. Calpe is not just a city by the sea; it is a way of life.