Calpe
Calpe is dominated by the majestic Peñón de Ifach, a 332-metre rock rising from the sea that gives the town a dramatic natural beauty hard to find elsewhere on Costa Blanca. Modern amenities and an active expat life complete the picture, with flats from €150,000.
Quick facts Calpe
Population
26 637
2024
Source: INE
Foreign residents
53.1%
Source: Local Registry
Estimated Swedes
1 200
Växande community, populärt cykeldestination
Distance to airport
60 min
Alicante (ALC)
Price per m²
3 348 €
Source: Idealista
Sunshine hours per year
3200
Average temperature
18.5°C
Average temperature
Lifestyle in Calpe
Calpe is perfect for the active retiree or family. Hiking, diving, sailing and golf are all within easy reach, and the international community is well organised with clubs and activities.
Why Swedes love Calpe
- ✓The Rock (Peñón de Ifach): An iconic landmark that gives character and fantastic hiking opportunities.
- ✓Cycling culture: Calpe is a world centre for cycling where many professional teams train in winter.
- ✓The contrasts: The mix of long sandy beaches, dramatic nature and a charming old town centre.
- ✓The microclimate: Protected by the mountains, winters are mild and sunny.
🤔Who is it NOT suitable for?
- •Those seeking total peace and seclusion (Calpe is a lively town year-round).
- •People with mobility issues wanting to live in Maryvilla or the Old Town (very hilly).
- •People who dislike high-rises (Calpe has a "mini Manhattan" feel by the beach).
Districts in Calpe
Arenal-Bol
Beach & Centre
Pros
- +Right on the beach
- +Walking distance to everything
- +High rental potential
Cons
- −Very busy in summer
- −Touristy
- −Difficult parking
Playa de la Fossa / Levante
Family & Views
Pros
- +Iconic views of the Rock
- +Family-friendly beach
- +Near the salt lakes
Cons
- −Very seasonal
- −High-rise buildings (skyscrapers)
- −Very crowded July-August
Maryvilla
Panorama & Villas
Pros
- +Possibly the coast's best views
- +Private and quiet
- +Exclusive villas
Cons
- −Steep terrain (requires a car)
- −Few shops in the area
- −Some parts shaded by the mountain
Casco Antiguo
Historic & Charm
Pros
- +Genuine Spanish atmosphere
- +Beautiful alleys and squares
- +Quieter than the beach
Cons
- −15-20 min walk to the sea
- −Hilly with stairs
- −Difficult by car
Climate in Calpe vs Stockholm
2800
Sunshine hours/year
50
Rainy days/year
28°C
July avg
25°C
Sea temp July
| Month | Calpe | Stockholm | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | -2°C | +14°C | |
| Apr | 18°C | 5°C | +13°C | |
| Jul | 27°C | 18°C | +9°C | 26°C |
| Okt | 22°C | 8°C | +14°C |
Property market in Calpe
Price trend (5 years)
+42%
Steadily increasing trend since 2020
Estimated Rental Yield
6.5%
Gross yield for long-term rental
Tourist license
Possible
Generally possible to obtain a short-term rental license.
What does a property cost?
Average price ranges for standard properties in good condition.
* Prices are estimated averages and may vary depending on location, condition and view.
Attractions & experiences in Calpe
Climb the Peñón de Ifach for incredible views (UNESCO-protected nature reserve). Fish auction at the harbour, Roman salt pools and crystal-clear water ideal for diving.
Transport & getting around in Calpe
Alicante airport 65 km, Valencia airport 120 km. TRAM tram extension under development. Boat connections to nearby coastal towns in summer.
The best of Calpe
Peñón de Ifach
UNESCO naturreservat
Färsk fisk
Daglig fiskauktion
Marinan
Segling och dykning
Expatliv
Stark gemenskap
Practical for Swedes
Travel from Sweden
SAS, Norwegian
Dagligen
Ryanair, Norwegian
Flera i veckan
SAS, Norwegian
Dagligen
Transfer to the area:
Bus (ALSA) takes about 1.5h. Taxi/transfer approx. 60 min (~€80-100).
Healthcare & Health
Health centre in the town centre. Hospital in Denia (20 min). Private clinics available.
NIE number & Legal
Apply at the Policia Nacional in Benidorm or Denia.
Swedish services on-site
Compare with nearby areas
💡Tips for buying in Calpe
Choose your location based on priority: beach, views or peace and quiet. Check that villas have a legal pool (many older pools lack permits). Front-line properties are pricier but hold their value best.
Watch out for
"Those seeking total peace and seclusion (Calpe is a lively town year-round)., People with mobility issues wanting to live in Maryvilla or the Old Town (very hilly)., People who dislike high-rises (Calpe has a "mini Manhattan" feel by the beach)."
Common questions about Calpe
No, although the beachfront has tall buildings, there is a very charming old town and large villa areas like Maryvilla.
World class! Many hotels are bike-friendly and the roads up into the mountains are fantastic.
Absolutely. The beaches are shallow and have blue flags. There are playgrounds and the theme parks in Benidorm are nearby.
If you live by the beach or in the centre, you can manage without. For Maryvilla or day trips, a car is a must.
On top of the purchase price, expect around 10-13%: stamp duty (ITP) 8-10%, notary fees, registration and legal advice.
NIE + bank account → Find property → Preliminary agreement + 10% deposit → Final deed at notary. Total time: 2-4 months.
Yes, a NIE number is mandatory for all property purchases in Spain.
Normally 2-4 months. The fastest possible is about 6 weeks if everything goes smoothly.
Properties in Calpe
No properties available in this area right now.
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