Villa Canuta Baja

Just under three kilometres from the centre of Calpe, you find Villa Canuta Baja – high up in an elevated position in a quiet residential area. It’s built on a slope, so there are lots of steps – meaning you can tuck into the sangria and paella guilt-free, surely a bonus on holiday!

The villa sleeps four people comfortably, across two bedrooms – one double and one twin bedroom, and there’s a modern shower room with WC. The main living space is largely open plan – a small kitchen (with oven, hob, fridge, freezer, coffee machine and washing machine) overlooks the first of the living and dining rooms. It’s separated by a bar area with stools, just the spot for breakfast while you decide what to do with the day ahead.

There are two living and dining rooms – the first, by the kitchen, has a comfortable sofa and chairs and dining table in a modern design. The second has a more traditional wooden table and chairs, and more formal seating. Both have terrace access so make the most of the wonderful views out across the rooftops and towards the sea. The terrace has a wrought iron balcony and outdoor furniture, sun loungers and dining table and chairs. Sit out here with a glass of wine in the early evening, the very best place to properly unwind.

Outside the villa, reached by a set of stone steps, there’s the swimming pool and outdoor shower. The terrace around the pool isn’t huge, but plenty of room for a table and chairs and sun loungers – you can swim here with beautiful views out across Calpe and over to the sea beyond.

In Calpe there is the lovely town beach of Playa Arenal, more than one kilometre of fine golden sands and clear waters, its facilities have earned it a blue flag. Calpe is most famous for its spectacular 600m high granite rock on the coastline, Penon de I Fach. A walk around the old town with its narrow streets and pavement cafes is also a must for any visitor to the area. There are good public transport links from Calpe for those with a sense of independence whilst others may prefer to hire a car to explore some of the more traditional inland villages or less discovered beaches of this interesting and beautiful part of the Costa Blanca.