Calpe, in Alicante, is a beautiful town on the Costa Blanca, with a skyline dominated by the famous Peñon de Ifach, a towering rock that rises an impressive 332 metres from the sea. Living in Calpe might be ideal if you're seeking a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle by the sea with a wealth of amenities on your doorstep.
Things to do in Calpe
What to see
- Beaches: Calpe's long beaches are, without doubt, one of the town's highlights, and the Costa Blanca is known for its high number of blue flag beaches. Places to visit on the coastline include Las Salinas, La Forat del Mar and Enginent Park.
- Historic sites: San Juan de la Cometa Chapel, the Castle-Fortress and the El Castellet Tower.
- The old town: a lively hub with narrow, winding streets and outdoor terraces. Highlights include:
- The Spanish flag steps lead up to the best shops in town.
- The museum features remnants of the city wall and an impressive artillery display.
- Nuestra Señora de las Nieves Parish Church, covered in mosaics, is a good spot for admiring the sunset.
Activities
Located a few kilometres from the town centre, Sierra de Oltà is a good place for going on hikes, while Cumbre del Sol is a popular destination for cyclists. The countless coves with crystal-clear waters make snorkelling, scuba-diving and water sports such as paddleboarding as common pastimes.
Living in Calpe
Population
Expats often move to this area in Costa Blanca to enjoy the dry summers and balmy winters, where the temperature rarely drops below 16ºC. The total population is around 27,000, and half of the residents are foreign, with large communities of Brits and Germans.
Eating out
Expect plenty of seafood and good wine. You'll find an affordable menu del día at one of the restaurants on the seafront and cocktails for around €10. Calpe also has a selection of international restaurants, such as Indian and Italian. Those from the UK who prefer to stick to what they know can choose one of the eateries that serve up British food for a taste of home.
Travel
Calpe is well-connected to the bigger cities, just one one-hour drive from Alicante and the airport. It is also located near some of the most beautiful villages in Alicante, making day trips an easy option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is Calpe in Spain?
Calpe is situated on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante. It lies north of Benidorm and Altea and south of Benissa and Moraira.
Is Calpe a good place to live?
Spain's eastern coastline is renowned for its calming effect, known to lower the blood pressure of its residents. The delicious paella, fresh oranges, and warm locals might also have something to do with it. Calpe is an excellent place for families, offering a healthy and active culture, long warm nights, and free healthcare. If mobility is a priority, the area near Calpe Port is ideal. For a constant cool breeze and a peaceful retreat, a villa in the hills might be more suitable.
Is Calpe expensive to live in?
The cost of living in Calpe offers a balance between affordability and the appealing features of coastal living. Dining out, for example, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around €48, with prices ranging from €45 to €55, which is comparable to other nearby cities. A cappuccino is priced at approximately €2.13, with a range between €2.00 and €2.20, reflecting the ease of enjoying a coffee in this beautiful setting. In terms of housing, property prices in Calpe average €3,219 per m2, while rent is about €12.8 per m2, equating to roughly €1,024 for an 80 m2 apartment. Comparatively, Benidorm's rent is higher, at €15.2 per m2, though property prices are slightly lower at €3,030 per m2. Meanwhile, Alicante presents more affordable options, with property prices at €2,321 per m2 and rent at €11.9 per m2.
Is Calpe better than Benidorm?
For a change of pace, locals can drive 30 minutes to Benidorm or get a boat that leaves at 10 am and returns at 5 pm. Find properties for sale or rent in Benidorm, and for getaway options, don't miss out on holiday rental alternatives in the city.
- Calpe has more rural areas, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy longer walks along the sand and a wider range of aquatic activities. However, for families with children, statistics show that Levante Beach in Benidorm is one of the most family-friendly in Spain.
- Benidorm has more tourists, leading to vacant establishments and rooms during off-peak seasons. Calpe, on the other hand, sees frequent returns, as the contrast between seasons is less pronounced, making it less isolated in winter.
- Benidorm is larger, offering a better option for those who don't want to leave behind metropolitan amenities, like bigger cinemas, a greater variety of stores, and a wider selection of restaurants.
Can you swim in Calpe in October?
The warmest month in Calpe is July, with temperatures soaring above 30°C. Sunbathers can enjoy prime tans, and swimmers can lounge in the sea for hours, staying comfortable in the 25°C water. By late August and continuing through October, evening strolls might require an extra layer as the water cools to a refreshing 19°C average.
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