Oct 16, 2018 | Activities/Services, Fiestas, Otros pueblos
The Costa Blanca is home to people of many different nationalities, something which can truly be appreciated in the multicultural Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort. As a result, a whole range of customs and special days from a variety of countries are celebrated here. For example, did you know that one of Spain’s most famous Oktoberfests is held in Calpe?
This event, also known as the October festival or Beer festival, originally began in Munich in 1810, with the wedding celebrations of Prince Ludwig I of Bavaria and Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. People loved it so much that the event was repeated year after year, eventually becoming a tradition and spreading to other countries. On the Alicante coastline we are lucky enough to host the most original replica of the event in Spain, Calpe Oktoberfest, which is organised by the Carnival Club of Calpe. It began in 1987 when a group of Germans who lived in the area decided to celebrate their country’s event, and in time became a tradition in Levante which welcomes over 10,000 people each year! This year, from the 24th October to the 4th November, the municipality will drink 30,000 litres of beer and dance the polka in an enormous tent set up close to the Tennis Club.
Soak up German culture at an event that is sure to leave a lasting impression. There will be typical Bavarian food – such as pork knuckle and sausages – as well as a wide selection of imported beers. And, thanks to live music from Steinsberger, the fun is guaranteed! There will also be a range of other activities like open-air dances, folk performances, tastings, and competitions as diverse as beer carrying, lumberjack tests, or milking cows… Without doubt, the best of all is the paella contest, a clear example of the wonderful fusion of the German and Spanish cultures. What could be better than enjoying a delicious paella under the Mediterranean sun… accompanied by a nice beer? Make a note in your calendar and enjoy the true German spirit at this event. We guarantee maximum fun from the word go, when the first barrel is opened by the mayor with a cry of “O’zapft is!”.
If you want to stay up to date with events and news from Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort and the surrounding area, keep an eye on our blog and social media channels!
Sep 27, 2018 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol
Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort is much more than a paradise with homes by the sea, it’s also where you can find one of the best British schools in Spain: The Lady Elizabeth School.
VAPF has taken part in the construction of this great school which brings pupils together throughout their school life. The company offers a quality education for all the residents of Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort and the surrounding areas, for them to therefore enjoy an unrivalled quality of life.
This school has an international character, given that it welcomes pupils from anywhere in Europe and, although its curriculum offers a wide selection of subjects all taught in English, other languages are studied both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities here. The school is distinguished by its high teaching standards which seek to help the pupils develop not just in academics, but personally, through various extracurricular, sporting, and music activities. To make this experience even more complete, in tutorial sessions pupils work on essential values such as respect, honesty, and tolerance.
This September, along with the beginning of the school year for the over 1,000 pupils, brought the inauguration of the new campus for the secondary school pupils, located next to the primary school campus and therefore offering comfort for both parents and teachers.
The new facilities are in line with the school’s educational philosophy, with modern architecture which will be the perfect setting in which the pupils of the Lady Elizabeth school can develop their abilities and build their dreams.
Toncho, an architect from Arquivir Arquitectos, the company which carried out this project together with VAPF Group, spoke to us of his experience working on the new campus, which began in May 2017 and was completed this August, ready for the pupils to use it for the first time at the beginning of this school year. The secondary school campus offers sports areas and outside areas and is composed of three buildings: one blue, another green, and a third in red. Although each building is of one colour, their façades are made up of different hues.
The construction of the new campus seeks to represent the school’s educational concept. The most striking part of the buildings is what Toncho calls “la grapa”, which is white cladding which covers the centre and the three buildings of different colours. This is a static structure which represents the school, and within it are the buildings which are “boxes of knowledge” where the pupils learn. The buildings therefore show a certain energy through their different depths and sizes, representing the dynamic nature of knowledge.
The colours selected, aside from fitting in well with the idea of a school, seek to represent the different subjects as well as the variety of people who come together within the school.
The design and construction of the secondary school campus used innovative materials. For example, on the façade of each of the buildings there are perforated metal sheets which, aside from their aesthetic function, also provide a sustainability solution in producing significant energy savings and offering pupils and teachers ventilation and light that is completely natural. This helps to foster a sense of wellbeing, a characteristic which stands out in all VAPF Group’s constructions.
The Lady Elizabeth Senior School architectural project displays state-of-the-art facilities which are in keeping with the quality of education at the school. According to Toncho, Arquivir’s objective is to complete the secondary school campus in December this year; although the educational buildings are now in use, both the auditorium and the sports building, which will include a semi-Olympic-sized pool, are under construction.
Here at VAPF, we can’t wait to see the finished project!
Aug 9, 2018 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol
We know that giving in to the charms of the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort is an easy task. It is situated in an exceptional location: in the heart of the Sierra de la Llorença, just 1.5km from the sea and close to wonderful beaches and coves such as Moraig and Tiestos.
As well as its location in a paradise spot in the province of Alicante, it is also close to cities which have much to offer visitors. Around an hour from the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort there are charming towns on the Mediterranean coast which enjoy the sunny climate 365 days a year. Today we’ll tell you all about what you can do in three of these cities: Denia, Calpe, and Altea.
Denia: a blue horizon and the best gastronomy
There is only one thing that shines brighter than the sun in Denia: the culinary creations. Since 2015, Denia has belonged to the Creative Cities of Gastronomy, a distinction UNESCO awards to those places which are dedicated to developing and exchanging innovative practices which promote the creative industries. In Spain, only Burgos and Denia have been awarded this recognition!
So, what creations can we sample in Denia? As we’re in the land of rice dishes, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the delicious arroz a banda. Denia’s fishing traditions and proximity to the sea make it the home of delicious seafood dishes: the famous red prawn, llandeta (a dish which mixes different types of fish with potato), suquet de peix (fish and shellfish cooked with suquet sauce), dried octopus, sea urchins… and the best thing is that there are around 300 restaurants in the city from which to choose your favourite.
Then, the marina hides even more surprises in this city. The first of these is the possibility to hire a boat to sail around the city and enjoy some magnificent views of the Macizo del Montgo Natural Park or the Cabo de San Antonio. Or, if you prefer, you can catch a ferry to reach special Mediterranean locations such as Formentera and Ibiza in just over two hours.
Calpe: against the backdrop of the Peñón de Ifach
Without doubt, one of the most well-known panoramic views in the Community of Valencia is in Calpe, with the Peñón de Ifach. Named a natural park over 30 years ago, reaching the peak can take around an hour, even on routes of moderate difficulty. Don’t forget to wear shoes which are comfortable and will help you to maintain your balance!
However, the adventure in Peñón de Ifach goes even further: there are around 43 routes, of varying difficulties, from which to choose the one you like best. In April, May, and June, climbing is not advisable due to nest building. It’s much better to enjoy this place in months such as September, when the temperatures are more stable.
There are infinite locations from which to enjoy the panoramic views of the Peñón de Ifach. However, if you would prefer to admire them while enjoying some sport, there is the Ifach Golf Club, one of the first golf courses in the Community of Valencia. Its location in between hills will provide you with some spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the imposing outline of the Peñón de Ifach. A luxury location to tee off in!
Calpe, like the other cities along the Mediterranean coastline, encompasses what it is to live close to the sea. A top fishing location, it is also a great choice for those who love regattas: the classic Calpe-Formentera-Calpe has been held here at the end of May/beginning of June for over three decades. This event, organised by the Calpe Royal Yacht Club, remains faithful to its family roots despite the recognition it has obtained after 30 years.
Altea: an old town to discover on foot
One of the pearls of the Costa Blanca is Altea. As the years have gone by, it has maintained its essence without losing even an ounce of it. We could write pages and pages about the beauty of its old town, which is a true icon in the Mediterranean. Our recommendation would be to visit in the evening, when its many charms are amplified: the cobbles, the white houses, and the dome on the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo take on a magical dimension.
Though the old town is the main reason which brings visitors to this Mediterranean location, Altea’s marinas also attract both experts and beginners in water sports and sailing. It doesn’t matter which you prefer: kayaking, rowing, canoeing, sailing, or snorkelling – there is room for all of them here! Altea’s crystal-clear waters are home to three marinas: Marina Greenwich, Altea Sailing Club, and Porto Senso Marina. So, how about spending a day out on the sea?
These are just three cities you will have within an hour from you at the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort. Keep an eye on our blog to find out about more locations close to our luxury houses! Or, if you prefer, you can contact us here and begin your new life by the sea! We hope to hear from you!
Jul 31, 2018 | Activities/Services, Club Amigos del Sol, Cumbre del Sol
The best place to enjoy great Mediterranean cooking is Restaurant La Cumbre, situated in the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort. With over 25 years of experience, they have always offered some delicious dishes which follow the traditions of the Costa Blanca’s best recipes. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 13:00-16:00 and from 19:00-22:30.
For all those who love good food, the summer menu has arrived:
Tapas to share:
- Creamy Salmorejo in crust of bread with ham and egg
- Marinated salmon tartare, apple and avocado
- Crispy shrimp with PX
- Homemade meat and cabbage Gyoza with ginger, sesame, and soy sauce
- Fried camembert and cranberry jam
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- Pineapple sorbet with cava
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- Grilled corvina with leek & potato parmentier and candied red peppers
- Grilled Beef steak with Spanish sauce
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- Vanilla creme madame millefeuille, apple, and toffee
- Yogurt, coconut and lemon sorbet
Bread and allioli
1/2 bottle of wine per person
Price per person €30 (VAT included)
The restaurant can adapt the summer menu to the tastes of its guests, offering a vegetarian version, vegan version, or a version adapted for any intolerance. It is available every day.
Additionally, in the summer months you can enjoy the terrace at the Restaurant La Cumbre: take a dip in the large pool, sunbathe on the loungers, or sample the cocktails or appetisers while you enjoy the restaurant’s views.
The staff at the restaurant can attend to guests in several languages, and also offer the menu in Spanish, English, French, Russian, and German. Their main priority is for all guests to feel at home and to enjoy the best Mediterranean food.
Would you like to try something that’s not on the seasonal menu? You can see the restaurant’s huge variety of dishes as well as chef recommendations on their menu. And, if you’ve been won over by their location, they also organise weddings, communions, christenings, and other types of celebrations.
You can find Restaurant La Cumbre in the Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort, close to the Adelfas shopping area. Come to enjoy the summer menu!
Jun 25, 2018 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol
The Cumbre del Sol Residential Resort is a paradise for the senses, not just because of its proximity to the sea and impressive views of the Mediterranean, but also its strategic location for nature lovers and all those who want to enjoy the outside world as much as they can.
From Cumbre del Sol, you’ll have a wide variety of options through which to connect with nature. There are cycling routes, activities such as diving, and various hiking routes. It also enjoys close proximity to Granadella Natural Park, a location that any nature lover would be glad to have nearby.
In terms of cycling routes, there are several options with differing levels of difficulty. One of the most popular routes, which is suitable for beginners, is known as the Abiar-Los Molinos route. It’s ideal to do with the family, since it enables you to discover the wonderful landscapes in the zone furthest from the coastline. On this route you’ll see the fields of vineyards and other crops, as well as typical agricultural constructions such as riuraus. This route is circular, starting and ending at the Calle del Mercado, is 6km long, and normally takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Another of the cycling routes in the area is known as Calistros. It is fairly similar to the previous route, though of a shorter distance: it is 3.85km long and takes around 20 minutes. The starting point for this route is also at the Calle del Mercado, and it is circular, ending at this same location. This route is close to the town centre, and allows you to discover the area’s rural surroundings.
More experienced cyclists will enjoy the Puig Llorença Route. This route is 9.4km long, with an approximate duration of 90 minutes. The difficulty comes from the steep incline, but the route is worth doing since it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy the coastal area by bike while you admire the huge cliffs. This route begins and ends in the same place as the previous two.
Here at VAPF Group we’d like to remind you of the importance of respecting, whether we’re walking or cycling, both other people enjoying the routes as well as the fauna and flora we find on our way.
This part of the Mediterranean Coast is well known for its underwater beauty, and there are different snorkelling and scuba diving routes to go on here. One of the snorkelling routes is found in the cove at the Playa del Moraig beach, where diving fans will be able to enjoy the different species of animals in the area: the Ornate wrasse, sea urchins, and even sea bass. Another possible route is in Cala Llebeig, considered one of the most beautiful coves along the Costa Blanca coastline. On this easy route you’ll find marine species such as sea bass and striped seabream. One of the most famous snorkelling routes in the area is known as Testos, since it is in the cove of the same name. The difficulty level is medium, and you’ll have the chance to see species from starfish to fish such as the sargo.
If you’re a more experienced scuba diver looking to go on an underwater route, there’s the one at Raco de I’illot, inside the Cova del Arcs cove on Moraig beach. Experts advise choosing to go in the afternoon when there is shade in the area, with the use of a torch.
Hiking lovers can also choose from a variety of routes on which to connect with nature. The most well known is undoubtedly the “Ruta de los Acantilados” or “Cliff Route”. This trail is ideal for enjoying the spectacular sea views as well as discovering the old caves used by fisherman. It’s linear and takes around an hour, so completing the walk and returning to the same starting point would take around two hours in total. The route is 4km long and begins from the car park above Cala del Moraig. Another option is the Falla del Moraig route, whose name comes from the monument at the end of the trail. On this walk, which is only 276 metres long, the most spectacular feature is the chance to see the entire Moraig beach with the Cap de la Nau in the background. A difficult route, the ruta dels Testos, takes place in what is known as the Barranc de l’Infern. The distance of this route is 500m one way, and if we take into account the return journey, it would take around 40 minutes to complete. On the last section of this route, it is necessary to use ropes to make the final descent safely. The Abiar-Abastros route is fairly similar to the one mentioned previously which is completed by bike, though on foot it would take around two hours.
To connect with nature, there’s nothing purer or more special than a walk through Granadella Natural Park, within easy distance of Cumbre del Sol. A true paradise for the senses and the perfect place to breathe in the fresh air and indulge in your love of the Mediterranean Sea views.
Jun 19, 2018 | Activities/Services, Cumbre del Sol
After a worldwide search for a new Head of School for one of the most outstanding international schools in Spain, the International Schools Partnership is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Akin as new headmaster of The Lady Elizabeth school. Chris will take up this new post in September this year, when the secondary school’s new campus in Cumbre del Sol, Benitachell, is inaugurated – the perfect time to begin a new chapter in the life of this great school.
Regional Director of Europe, Nick Rugg, said: “Chris joins us with a wealth of international leadership experience. He is currently the Head of Beijing City International School and has previous Headship and Senior Leadership experience in countries as diverse as Peru, Indonesia, Ecuador, Paraguay and Switzerland. His wife is Peruvian and they have two teenage children. Chris was the standout candidate in our search and will be a real asset to the School, to ISP and to the whole learning agenda.”
During his interview, Chris met a cross-section of the school community, including the management team, teaching and non-teaching staff, and some of the pupils. It was a unanimous decision and everyone is looking forward to Chris and his family becoming part of the strong Lady Elizabeth family.
When asked about his new role, Chris said: “I am delighted to be joining The Lady Elizabeth School, as Head of School, this September! During my visit for interviews I saw a thriving and very busy learning community – with wonderful and warm relationships between students and teachers, a clear and evident focus on learning and support for each and every student. The clearest indicator of the health of a school is how happy the students and staff are to be there, and that is exactly what you find when you visit LES. Sandra and I look forward to calling LES our home for our next exciting chapter in our lives!”
If you choose to live in one of our houses in Cumbre del Sol, you will be offering your children the opportunity to attend one of the best schools in the world, with a new headmaster who, thanks to his great experience, will help them to guarantee themselves a prosperous future.
