Embark on a short boat ride to a remote and rocky cove for a day of sun-kissed relaxation and underwater exploration.
Sunbathe, swim, scuba dive and snorkel on a visit to Cala de Gasparet, a small isolated cove of gravel and pebbles on Spain’s eastern coast. This picturesque spot is flanked by the Sierra de Toix, a rocky ridge that juts out into the sea.
The only way to access the cove is by water. Charter a boat from the nearby coastal town of Calpe, located 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) to the east, or the seaside town of Altea, 6 miles (10 kilometers) to the west. Or, if you’re experienced and feeling energetic rent a kayak and paddle to the cove. Few people visit Cala de Gasparet, so you may be able to enjoy its tranquility on your own.
The beach extends for approximately 262 feet (80 meters) and is about 23 feet (7 meters) wide. Due to its isolated nature, there are no facilities, such as showers or toilets, at the cove. Work on your suntan while enjoying the gorgeous views out to sea. Then cool off with a revitalizing swim in the Mediterranean. The waves are calm here for the most part.
As well as its remoteness away from popular Costa Blanca resort beaches, one of Cala de Gasparet’s other draws is that it’s a good spot for scuba diving. Anchor your boat a little offshore and dive into the water, which has good visibility. Among the aquatic creatures you may see are starfish, groupers, mollusks, octopus and moray eels.
In addition to Cala de Gasparet, there are plenty of other coves dotting this part of the coastline that are worth exploring. They include Cala Les Bassetes and Cala del Penyal. If you are looking for a great snorkelling or diving spot, head south from Cala de Gasparet to Cala del Racó del Corb, a small cove at the foot of the Peñón de Ifach, the huge limestone outcrop by Calpe's beaches. Its 492-feet (150-meter) long pebble beach attracts crowds during the peak summer season.
