The Rock of Ifach

Image | Pixabay

One of the emblems of the Costa Blanca is the imposing Peñón de Ifach, a colossal rock monolith 332 meters high from which there are impressive views of Calpe and the Mediterranean.

Although it seems that in the past it was a small island separated from the population, today it is linked by a fine line of land. It was declared a Natural Park in the 80s of the XNUMXth century. Every weekend many people are encouraged to visit it, attracted by the fame of its views and by the beauty of the beaches in the area.

The lower area of ​​the rock of Ifach

Visiting this area can be done without difficulty even with young children. At its feet is a beautiful saltwater lagoon that was an old salt mine that ceased to be active several years ago.

A visit to the lower area of ​​the Peñón de Ifach is highly recommended if we want to take a small excursion to contemplate the splendid views of the beaches of Calpe and the Mediterranean. It is a climb along a path with a slight slope between pine trees and holm oaks with views of the two beaches of Calpe that are separated by the rock.

Before reaching the tunnel that leads to the second phase of the climb, the most complicated, we find the reception center of the rock where a small museum is located that welcomes us and gives us information about this place. And it is that in January 1987 the Peñón de Ifach was declared a Natural Park, so in this space we can learn a little more about it.

Image | Pixabay

For example, around eighty species of birds nest on the Peñón de Ifach, although seagulls are omnipresent and accompany the entire journey to the top with their squawks and pirouettes.

During the mating and breeding season it is possible to see the nests of these gulls and the chicks, so it is important not to get too close, since these animals have no qualms about launching pecks at those they consider a threat to their offspring.

Climb to the top

Then the most complicated stage of ascent to the rock begins. The path that follows has nothing to do with the previous section since it becomes more complicated and dangerous if you are not used to this type of excursion going up a mountain. For this reason it is necessary to wear suitable footwear.

It is when we arrive at the tunnel that was dug in the mountain with dynamite that we see that the matter becomes difficult. Although some sections have been restored, there are slippery rocks so you have to use large ropes attached to the stone walls to move safely.

After crossing this section, the most complex of the Peñón de Ifach route, we reach the viewpoint from which we have incredible views of Calpe and the Mediterranean Sea. Even on clear days you can see Ibiza looming in the distance, like a mirage.

Once up, the only thing left to do is enjoy the spectacular views of Calpe and the Mediterranean. The descent is through the same place, so you have to be careful with slippery rocks.

Image | Pixabay

Curiosities of the Peñón de Ifach

  • It is the smallest Natural Park in the Valencian Community with only 50 hectares of extension and 1 km in length. However, it is one of the most visited of the year.
  • At the end of the XNUMXth century, the Peñón de Ifach was a private property. One of the owners ordered the tunnel that crosses the rock to be excavated with dynamite in order to facilitate access to the top and he had this place as his second residence since he lived in Gandía.
  • When it was privately owned, in the 50s a hotel was built on the slope of the natural park but it never opened its doors as the works came to a standstill. However, it was not demolished until it was declared a Natural Park in 1987.
  • In the times of King Jaime I, back in the XNUMXth century, there was a settlement that was surrounded by a wall and today its remains can be seen. In fact, several of its viewpoints are built on the basis of the old watchtowers that the wall had.

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