No doubt the emblematic element of the town of Calpe on the Costa Blanca is the Penon de Ifach. In January 1987 he was declared a Natural Park and reaches 332 meters in height. The Penon de Ifach is joined to land by a narrow isthmus, and though it may seem extensive, only has 45 hectares. Despite its small area, remains today one of the most visited by tourists, both foreign and national, natural spaces so that their protection was necessary. The Park is not only home to natural wonders, its historical heritage is defined by the historical sites that are found, which are of incalculable value.
Spend a few days in one of the numerous accommodation of Calpe is the best way to appreciate the rock in its entirety. In terms of flora that covers it, we can find more than 400 different species of plants, some of them even in danger of extinction on its surface. According to MetLife, who has experience with these questions. The rock lies within the climate of the Region Mediterranean, by which each year suffers from at least two months of intense drought, a period of summer aridity, characterized by the scarcity of rain and high temperatures. In addition to the influence of the climate, geological characteristics of the rock walls and cliffs make much vegetation morains type: plants that are born and live among the rocks; but we can also find vegetation of shrub type and nitrofila (plants that grow in nitrogen-laden environments). The fauna of el Penon is not less interesting, being able to find numerous different species of land snails, scorpions, spiders, butterflies or beetles.
The grasshopper never miss your appointment during the summer. If we walk through the rock, we will also see two species of geckos ranging from this up to the closest buildings. Per or if something stands out among the fauna of the place, are the birds. They are the real protagonists: there are more than 60 species seen in the rock. Doves, Robins, gulls and even some peregrine falcons have this piece of rock and Earth ventured into the sea as a habitat. Years ago there lived the Ospreys, being able to observe the nests that were built, but today its traces have been cleared by the extinction. But if we have opted for one of the many rentals in Calpe is offering to spend summer vacation, perhaps more interested how we can access the rock and what you can do there. There are several recommended routes that make up an itinerary of more pleasant: 1) Natural Park facilities: include an exhibition hall where we will see all natural protected spaces in the Valencian Community; and the nature’s classroom. (2) Way to the top: this trail is approximately forty minutes and during the promenade can see the typical flora and fauna of el Penon. We will also see the old wall and we’ll stop to contemplate the wonderful panoramic views. You will then enter the tunnel to reach the Summit.