Text: Antje Ehlebracht

Every day Calpe seems to increasingly resemble a second Benidorm, as more and more of the scenery is lost to the silhouettes of scaffolding and high rise hotels. But there is one small area which has remained unchanged for 38 million years: the Peñón de Ifach (or Penyal d'Ifac in Valenciano). It is unclear how this magnificent landmark came into being - maybe by volcanic rock spewed from the sea bed, or perhaps a landslide from the Sierra de Oltá mountain range. Whatever its creation, its diverse faces seem to mirror the theories surrounding its birth.

Landmark from Wind and Wave

This gigantic limestone rock, which the natural forces of wind and water have sculptured from a once smooth block to create what we see today, presides over what is probably the most beautiful section of coast on the Costa Blanca. Reaching a height of 332 metres it still stands as master over the new multistory buildings surrounding it. Not only is it ideal for hill walkers and climbers, but it has a natural beauty that marks it as one of the major landmarks of the region. If you do decide to try climbing the rock however, make sure you have sturdy and suitable footwear (flip flops are not recommended!).

Secrets of the Giant

There is a museum at the foot of the rock which is well worth visiting. Something in the construction of the museum walls forces the wind through all its nooks and crannies, making a strange sound that surrounds the house and mingles with the cries of the sea birds. A great diversity of species live on the Ifach; there are more than 80 different kinds of bird ranging from swallows to falcons, and a multitude of other animals and rare plants also regard the rock as home.

Peñón de Ifach is the smallest Nature Park in Europe, comprising only 45 hectares, but there is an equally interesting underwater world to explore. An aquarium has been built into the rock which allows the myriad sea creatures that live in this part of the Mediterranean, who would otherwise remain hidden in their secret water world, to be observed and admired.

A Little Paradise in Europe

So, now you have become a little more acquainted with this fascinating rock and its inhabitants, we recommend you visit and see firsthand all that the Ifach has to offer.