With September just around the corner and the onset of autumn temperatures are milder, and perfect for enjoying the final days of summer. The weather is also ideal for visiting and discovering new places.
At Residential Resort Cumbre del Sol we are surrounded by the countryside and some amazing landscapes, so there is always somewhere to visit. September is the ideal time for hiking and adventures don’t you think? We have a plan for an outing which is less than 45 minutes by car from Cumbre del Sol. What’s the destination? A fantastic day out in a natural setting.
We’re talking about Peñón de Ifach. This natural park is in Calpe, but it is visible from many other parts of the province. In 1987 the Valencian government declared it a nature reserve covering an area of 45 hectares. However, six years ago the protected area was extended to 53.3 hectares.
The Peñón de Ifach is an outcrop of the mountains known as the cordilleras Béticas, and it rises to an altitude of 332 metres. It provides a striking image, with the peak rising out of the sea in stark contrast to the waters lapping the rock, which is connected to the land by a strip of detritus comprising fragments of rock and shells forming a narrow isthmus.
You can visit the Peñón de Ifach and walk around it. However currently, due to the enormous demand, visiting is restricted and you need to book. Although it continues to be free of charge. As a result, if you’re planning to visit, before you go to Calpe you will need to book a slot to climb the Peñón de Ifach. It’s just a small formality and worth it for a truly enjoyable trip!
The route to the Peñón de Ifach is signposted. Starting out from the car park, the route is about 5 kilometers, and you will discover some amazing sights on the way. One of these is the ruins of the ancient archaeological remains of Pobla d’Ifach. And then, after going through the tunnel that crosses the peak, you will come to a fork. Here you can choose whether to go on to a lookout point or continue your climb to the top. At the summit, on a clear day you can see the islands of Formentera, Ibiza and Cape Santa Pola. You’ll be blown away by the views!
The peak, with its unique location, is a striking sight but it also boasts plenty of interesting wildlife and vegetation. In fact, at the Peñón de Ifach natural park there are over 400 different plant species. Many of these have been classified as in danger of extinction such as the silene de Ifach. While the natural park is notable for its varied vegetation, there is also an abundance of wildlife in the Peñón de Ifach Natural Park. It is a haven for over 80 species of birds, including the European shag and the yellow-legged gull.
As you can see, it’s a great place for an outing from Cumbre del Sol. You can have a picnic in the middle of the Peñón de Ifach park, as there is a specially designated picnic area with shaded tables and a water fountain. Remember, you need to book your visit and then all you have to do is enjoy one of the Costa Blanca’s most prized beauty spots.
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