Penyal d'Ifac rock on the Costa Blanca, Calpe - iconic 332 m limestone peak

The iconic Penyal d'Ifac walk: an adventurous climb to the top of Calpe's cliff

13 August 2025

An impressive natural wonder rises on the Costa Blanca's picturesque coast: the Penyal d'Ifac (in Spanish: Peñón de Ifach). This gigantic limestone rock, 332 metres high, is the icon of Calpe and one of the most recognisable landscapes of the entire Spanish east coast. What many visitors do not know is that you can actually climb this majestic rock via a challenging but unforgettable hiking trail.

In this blog post, we will take you on an adventurous hike to the top of Penyal d'Ifac, a protected natural park that not only offers impressive views but also harbours a unique biodiversity. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just looking for a special experience during your stay on the Costa Blanca, this hike is an absolute must-do that will make your holiday unforgettable.

The Penyal d'Ifac hiking trail: what you need to know

Route overview

The walk to the top of Penyal d'Ifac is a return route of about 5 kilometres with an altitude difference of about 300 metres. The hike takes 3 to 4 hours on average, depending on your pace and how long you want to stop at different points to enjoy the views.

The route can be clearly divided into two parts:

Visitor centre to the Tunnel: This first section is relatively easy and suitable for all ages, including children. The path is paved and rises gradually through a shady pine forest.

Tunnel to the Top: After the tunnel, the difficulty increases significantly. This section is not accessible to children under 18 years of age. The path becomes irregular and even challenging in some places due to slippery, polished rocks. At certain points, you have to use your hands to climb further.

Important Information: Booking is mandatory!

Since 2020, the must be booked in advance to climb the Penyal d'Ifac. This was introduced to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure visitor safety. There is a daily quota of 300 people.

Reservations can be made via the Official website of the Generalitat Valenciana. The reservation is free, but without it you risk a fine of up to 600 euros. You can book on the same day, depending on availability, but in high season it is advisable to do so a few days in advance.

The Walk Step by Step

Paved footpath through pine forest from visitor centre to tunnel Penyal d'Ifac walk

Part 1: from the visitor centre to the tunnel

The hike starts at the nature park's visitor centre, where you have to show your reservation. Take a moment to check out the exhibition on the rock's flora, fauna and history. There are also toilets and a drinking water fountain available - make use of these, as there are no facilities further along the route.

From the visitor centre, follow a well-maintained, paved path that zig-zags up through a shady pine forest. Along the way, you pass several vantage points that offer increasingly spectacular views of Calpe harbour and the surrounding coastline.

After about 30-45 minutes of gentle climbing, you reach the tunnel, a special point in the route. The tunnel is not lit and the floor can be very slippery, so be careful. There are ropes/chains on the sides to hold on to.

Rocky mountain path with chains after tunnel on way to top of Penyal d'Ifac

Part 2: from the tunnel to the summit

On the other side of the tunnel, the landscape changes dramatically. The paved path gives way to a rocky mountain trail that immediately begins with a series of steps fitted with chains to hold on to. This is the point where children under 18 must turn around.

The path is well marked with red markings. After a short climb, you come to a fork. Here you can choose to go to the "Mirador de Carabineros" (Viewpoint of the Douaniers) first, or climb straight to the top. The viewpoint offers great views of the north side of the rock and is definitely worth a small diversions.

Back at the junction, the most challenging part of the trail begins. The path gets steeper and the limestone rocks have been polished smooth by years of use, making them particularly slippery, especially when wet. In some places, you have to use your hands to continue climbing. Take your time and be careful - haste is your worst enemy here.

The summit: a panoramic spectacle

Panoramic views from the top of Penyal d'Ifac - sea, Calpe skyline, salt lakes and mountains

a about 1.5 to 2 hours of climbing (from the starting point) you reach the top of Penyal d'Ifac, 332 metres above the Mediterranean Sea. The sense of achievement is immediately rewarded with a truly breathtaking 360-degree panorama.

From here you have spectacular views over:

The city of Calpe with its distinctive skyline
The azure Mediterranean Sea stretching to the horizon
The salt lakes (Las Salinas) with their pink glow
Alicante province's impressive mountain ranges, including Serra Gelada, Puig Campana and the Montgó

The summit is also home to several seabird colonies, including the yellow-legged gull. If you are lucky, you can observe these elegant birds up close as they soar on the thermals around the rock.

Flora and fauna: a unique ecosystem

Endemic Silene d'Ifac and Mediterranean herbs at Penyal d'Ifac - unique ecosystem

The Penyal d'Ifac is not just a geological wonder, but also an ecological treasure trove. The nature park is home to more than 300 plant species, several of which are endemic (they occur only here) or rare and protected.

During your climb, you can enjoy rich Mediterranean vegetation, including:

The Silene d'Ifac, an endemic carnation species that grows only on this rock
Different species of wild orchids in spring
Rosemary, thyme and other aromatic herbs that fill the air with their fragrance
Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) and Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis)

In terms of fauna, the rock is best known for its rich birdlife. Besides yellow-legged gulls, you can also spot peregrine falcons, alpine vulture swallows and blue rock thrushes. The lower parts of the park are home to several species of lizards and small mammals.

Practical Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Walk

Hikers at top of Penyal d'Ifac with panoramic views of Calpe and Mediterranean Sea

Best time to hike

The Penyal d'Ifac can be climbed all year round. The most pleasant periods are:

Spring (March-May): Mild weather and flowering vegetation
Autumn (September-November): Pleasant temperatures after summer heat
Winter (December-February): Quiet and mild, perfect for hiking

In the summer months (June-August), extra caution is needed due to higher temperatures. In that case, preferably start early in the morning, wear a hat, use plenty of sunscreen and bring extra water. With these precautions, the hike can be a wonderful experience even in summer.

What to bring

Sturdy hiking boots with a good tread (no sandals or slippery soles!)
Sufficient water (at least 1.5 litres per person, more in the summer months)
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
Snacks or a light lunch to enjoy at the summit
Camera for the unforgettable views
Windbreaker (It can be windy at the summit, even on warm days)
Small first aid kit for emergencies

Safety tips

Stay on the marked paths To protect fragile vegetation
Wear suitable shoes with a good profile
Be extra careful in wet or windy weather
Take sufficient breaks and listen to your body
Don't just go if you are an inexperienced hiker
Check the weather forecast before you leave
Inform someone About your hiking plans

How to get to the Penyal d'Ifac?

Blue city bus towards Calpe centre in sunlit street with cypress trees

The Penyal d'Ifac is located in Calpe (Calp), a popular beach resort on the Costa Blanca, about a 50-minute drive northeast of Alicante city and about 30 minutes south of Dénia.

By car

The old car park at the foot of the cliff is closed. There is a large free car park near the salt lakes (Las Salinas), from where you can walk to the start point of the hike in about 10 minutes. In high season, there is also paid parking (blue zone) closer to the starting point.

By public transport

Calpe is easily accessible by bus from Alicante, Benidorm and other coastal towns. From the bus station in Calpe, it is about a 20-25-minute walk to the starting point of the walk.

Alternative routes and activities around Calpe

Aerial view of Benissa's ecological path along Mediterranean coast with clear blue sea

If you have not been able to make a reservation for the Penyal d'Ifac, or if you are looking for other great walks in the area, here are some excellent alternatives:

Benissa's ecological path: A beautiful coastal route through pine trees with crystal clear waters and beautiful bays.
Sierra de Bernia: A spectacular mountain hike with a tunnel through the rock and panoramic views.
Sierra de Oltà: A lesser-known but beautiful walk close to Calpe.
Walk around Calpe's salt lakes: An easy, flat walk perfect for birdwatchers.

Besides hiking, Calpe also offers excellent opportunities for:

Snorkelling and diving in the crystal-clear waters around Penyal d'Ifac
Kayaking along the coast
Cycling through the hinterland
Relax on Calpe's beautiful beaches

Hiking packages at Casa Llibertat: discover the Costa Blanca on foot

Hiking group on rocky mountain peak in Costa Blanca - hiking holiday organised by Casa Llibertat B&B with spectacular views over the valley

Want to discover the Penyal d'Ifac and other beautiful hiking trails in the region without having to arrange all the logistics yourself? At Casa Llibertat we offer specially composed hiking packages that allow you to explore the Costa Blanca's most beautiful spots on foot.

Our hiking packages are available in different lengths to suit your needs

5-day hiking package (4 nights)

Perfect for a short walking holiday or a long weekend. This package includes the most beautiful routes in the immediate surroundings of Llíber, including the spectacular Penyal d'Ifac.

7-day hiking package (6 nights)

Our most popular package offers a perfect balance between hiking and relaxing. Explore the diverse landscapes of Marina Alta, from coastal paths to mountain walks through vineyards and almond orchards.

9-day hiking package (8 nights)

For the true hiking enthusiast. This comprehensive package introduces you to all facets of the region, including hidden gems that most tourists never get to see.

All packages include:

Comfortable stay in our B&B
Daily breakfast and packed lunch
Detailed route descriptions and maps
Transport to the starting point of the walks (if necessary)
Personal advice and tips from local hiking experts

After a day of hiking, you can relax by our pool or in our jacuzzi, the perfect way to let your tired muscles recover for the next day.

Staying at Casa Llibertat: The Perfect Base

Casa Llibertat B&B in picturesque Llíber - pool and vineyards, tranquillity near Calpe

Our Casa Llibertat is located in the picturesque village of Llíber, just a 30-minute drive from Calpe and the Penyal d'Ifac. Surrounded by vineyards and with a beautiful swimming pool, our B&B is a haven of peace where you can recover from your hiking adventures.

We offer several rooms each with their own character and comfort, and all with access to our shared facilities such as the swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Our guests especially appreciate the personal attention and the quiet, authentic atmosphere you find here, away from the hustle and bustle of the coastal resorts but still close to all the sights.

As hiking enthusiasts, we are happy to share our knowledge and tips on the best routes in the region. We can provide you with maps, route descriptions and practical information to make your hiking adventure as enjoyable as possible.

Conclusion: an unforgettable experience on the Costa Blanca

Aerial view of Penyal d'Ifac natural park in Calpe with turquoise Mediterranean Sea, coastal town and residential buildings in Alicante province, Costa Blanca

The hike to the top of Penyal d'Ifac is without doubt one of the most impressive experiences the Costa Blanca has to offer. The combination of challenge, natural beauty and panoramic views makes this hike an unforgettable adventure that you must experience at least once in your life.

Although the climb can be challenging at some points, the reward is more than worth it. The sense of achievement when you reach the top and the breathtaking 360-degree views over the Mediterranean and the Costa Blanca hinterland will stay with you for a long time.

So put on your walking shoes, book your place, and prepare for an unforgettable day in one of Spain's most spectacular natural parks! And don't forget: for a complete hiking experience in the region, including the Penyal d'Ifac, our hiking packages the perfect choice.

Want to know more about the Penyal d'Ifac hike or are you interested in staying at Casa Llibertat as a base for your hiking adventures on the Costa Blanca? Then take contact with us or check out our rooms for more information.

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