Calpe Old Town And Market

Calpe is near Alicante on the Costa Blanca. It is a town of two halves. We stayed in a hotel on the seafront which as one would expect in a holiday resort, has a selection of bars, restaurants and shops. In contrast, Calpe Old town is quaint, charming, authentic and unspoiled. These red painted steps act as a gateway between the new and the old.

Ian and I spent a morning looking around the old town. There’s a perimeter wall, built to defend the town against pirate attacks and a maze of narrow cobbled streets punctuated with decorated steps, painted murals and window boxes full of flowers.

The Museo del Coleccionismo (below) houses temporary public and private collections.

And there’s a beautiful church located in the town square, Iglesia parroquial de nuestra Señora de las Nieves. It’s modern with a traditional chapel. I often go into churches when I’m abroad. My Catholic upbringing, the chance to light a candle, and the peace draw me in. This one was very welcoming. A lady at the door encouraged us to take a look round and there was an organist sitting and playing. It was tranquil, cool and uplifting and a welcome break from the searing midday heat.

There’s a gorgeous market every Saturday in Calpe Old Town. It was mainly fruit and veg but there were a few clothes and leather goods too. It was good to see more locals than tourists shopping there, something which is always the sign of an authentic market.