The beautiful Spanish seaside town between Valencia and Alicante may surprise you with the “comparable” Rio de Janeiro. The beauty of this ancient fishing village is hidden behind 15th century walls, but the surrounding area is equally interesting, with unexpected sights like flamingos grazing on salt flats.
Defining the Calpe skyline is the Ifach limestone mountain compared to Rio's Sugarloaf Mountain, which rises 330 metres above the beach. It makes the perfect backdrop for the sunset with a cold drink on hand. This can be taken from the pedestrianized promenade covered in palms. The portrait of Rio does not stop – Fossa Beach's 2,000 metres of golden sand stretches are called one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.
The calm waters in the shadows of Ifach Rock are perfect for swimming and scuba diving, while the tasty restaurant serves local cuisine nearby.
The long stretches of Arenal-Bol are another place worth mentioning, one of Ifach's best views, and anyone looking for a more secluded beach might enjoy Mallorquí Cove. If you'd like to dive, check out Les Basetes Cove at the Marina.
When you need to stretch your legs, explore the national park hiking trails around the protruding headlands of Ifach, including those that run from the surface to the peak.
It also passes through La Pobla D'Ifach, a medieval settlement built in the 13th century.
One of the strangest places in the area is the vast salt flats where you can roam flamingos and see migratory birds.
After visiting the salt flats, soak in the nearby Banos de la Reina (Queens Bath). This archaeological site consists of artificial pools dug into rocks originally created as a fish farm for wealthy Roman families.
Once you have enough outdoors, you will return to the cobblestone streets of the old town decorated with mosaics and murals. The impressive 15th century walls protect the city and you can learn everything about the history of Casa de la Senoretta and the history of this sailor town at the Archaeological Museum.
