With sublime views and access to ancient Roman ruins, this small bay is a fun place to hang out in Calpe.
Cala Morello is one of the many coves that decorate the coastline of Calpe. It blends beach recreation with the chance to visit an intriguing archaeological site. Cala Morello sits on the sandy shores of the Balearic Sea and looks out over the Bahia de Calpe. Spot colourful fish and bathe in the warm water as Romans did thousands of years ago and wander down a waterfront promenade.
Because of its central location this beach gets busy so arrive early to grab a good sunbathing spot. The cove is protected by rocks, which creates a calm and safe swimming environment. To the east you can see the imposing Peñón de Ifach rock and to the west is Morro de Toix hill.
The Baños de la Reina Archaeological Site is to the righthand side of the beach as you look out to the sea. It’s a collection of 2,000-year-old ruins that were once a flourishing Roman enclave. Situated in the sea itself are six rock-cut pools that would have been used as either fish hatcheries or an aquarium. Today you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the pools, which continue to attract colourful fish species.
Behind the esplanade that travels above the coastline is the Roman vicus. This was the main complex of the enclave and once featured a church, necropolis and residential houses. Read about the history of the ruins via information signs in English. A 19th-century flour windmill, called Moli del Morello, is another interesting landmark next to the complex.
Stretch your legs with a walk on the esplanade. It skirts the edge of the bay and the neighboring Arenal-Bol Beach. You’ll pass the former thermal baths of the Roman ruins. Take a break at one of several bars and restaurants that line the promenade.
Cala Morello is a 25-minute walk from Calpe’s main square, Plaça Major. Metered parking is available on the town’s streets, although spaces tend to fill up fast.
