Cala Les Bassetes

Introduction

Welcome to one of our favorite corners of the Costa Blanca! Today we are going to immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquility of Cala Les Bassetes, a true hidden treasure that marks the border between the charming municipalities of Benissa and Calpe, in the sunny province of Alicante. This cove, although not the most extensive, has a particular charm that makes it an essential destination for those looking for something more than the typical crowded beach.

When we talk about Cala Les Bassetes, we talk about waters that invite diving, a serene atmosphere that allows you to disconnect, and a coastal landscape that takes your breath away. It is not just a beach; it is a small nautical complex that offers a complete experience, combining the calm of its waters with the excitement of water sports. It is the perfect place for those who, like us, value quality over quantity and seek those small details that make a getaway unforgettable.

How to Get to Cala Les Bassetes

Getting to Cala Les Bassetes is relatively easy, although we recommend going with a good GPS navigator so you don't miss a thing. It is located on the road that connects Benissa Costa with Calpe, right next to the Les Bassetes Nautical Club. If we come from Calpe, we must take the CV-746 towards Moraira/Benissa Costa. The cove is well signposted and the entrance to the nautical club is unmistakable. From Benissa, the route is similar, following the coast towards Calpe.

We have parking nearby, although in high season it can be limited and fill up quickly. Our recommendation is to arrive early, especially if you visit the cove in the summer months, to secure a good spot. There are free parking areas, but we can also find paid options if the first ones are full. The advantage is that, once parked, we have the cove and its services within a stone's throw, which makes logistics much easier, especially if we are loaded with snorkeling gear or towels and umbrellas. Accessibility is good, with a paved path that leads us directly to the shore.

The Sand and Water

The most distinctive feature of Cala Les Bassetes is, without a doubt, its composition. Do not expect a beach of fine golden sand; here we find a bed of pebbles and some coarse sand. This gives it a more natural and wild appearance, while also having its advantages: the water remains incredibly clean and transparent, as the pebbles do not cloud like sand. That said, for greater comfort, we advise you to bring water shoes or aqua socks, especially if you have sensitive feet.

The waters of Cala Les Bassetes are simply spectacular. Their transparency is legendary, with shades ranging from the most vibrant turquoise blue to the deepest emerald. The absence of large waves and strong currents makes it an idyllic place for bathing, even for the little ones, always under supervision. This calm and clarity are precisely what make it so attractive to snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, who find a rich and fascinating marine ecosystem here just a few meters from the shore. It is a true natural open-air aquarium.

Services and Facilities

Despite its size, Cala Les Bassetes is very well equipped, offering a wide range of services that guarantee a comfortable and pleasant stay. Being next to the Nautical Club, the offer is superior to that of many similar coves:

• Showers: Available to wash off the salt and sand before heading home.
• Parking: As we already mentioned, there are parking options nearby.
• Chiringuitos and Restaurants: The Nautical Club houses excellent quality restaurants where we can enjoy local cuisine with sea views. It is the perfect place for a morning coffee, lunch, or a sunset dinner.
• Lifeguard Service: During the high season, the cove has a lifeguard service, which adds an extra layer of safety for all bathers.
• Equipment Rental: One of the great advantages of Cala Les Bassetes is the possibility of renting equipment for water sports. We can find kayaks, paddle surf boards, and snorkeling gear, allowing us to explore the coast from another perspective.
• Bathrooms/WC: Clean and accessible sanitary facilities for users.
• Mooring area: Being a nautical club, we have moorings for small boats, which attracts many sailors to this spot.

These services, combined with the natural beauty of the cove, make our visit as pleasant as possible. It is the perfect combination between a well-kept natural environment and the comfort of having everything we need within reach.

Best Time to Visit

For us, the best time to visit Cala Les Bassetes is, without a doubt, spring (April, May, early June) and late summer/early autumn (September, October). During these months, the weather is exquisite, with pleasant temperatures that allow you to enjoy the sun and sea without the oppressive heat of the peak summer.

Furthermore, by avoiding the high season of July and August, we encounter a much lower influx of people. This means more space on the shore, fewer queues at restaurants, and a generally much calmer and more relaxing experience. The water is still warm and perfect for swimming, and visibility for snorkeling and diving is optimal.

If you can only go in summer, we advise you to get up early. Arriving first thing in the morning will allow us to enjoy the cove at its best, with the peace that only the early hours of the day can offer, before most visitors arrive. It's a little trick to experience the cove as if it were our own.

Activities and Sports

Cala Les Bassetes is a paradise for lovers of water activities. Its calm, crystal-clear waters are the perfect setting for a variety of sports and explorations:

• ### Snorkeling and Diving

The water visibility is exceptional, making it one of the best spots in the area for snorkeling and diving. Marine life is abundant and diverse; we can observe schools of fish, starfish, and underwater rock formations. For those who want to go a step further, there are diving centers at the Nautical Club itself that offer courses and guided excursions for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers.

• ### Paddle Surf and Kayak

Renting kayaks and paddle surf boards is very popular here. Rowing along the coast of Benissa and Calpe, exploring small caves and coves inaccessible on foot, is an unforgettable experience. The calm waters are ideal for learning and practicing these sports, even if it's our first time.

• ### Hiking and Cycling

The surroundings of Cala Les Bassetes also offer opportunities for hiking and cycling. The Vía Verde del Litoral, which connects Calpe with Benissa, passes very close by, offering walks with impressive views of the Peñón de Ifach and the coast. It's a fantastic way to combine a beach day with a bit of exercise and land exploration.

For Families with Children

We consider Cala Les Bassetes an excellent option for families with children. Although it is not a fine sand beach for building castles, its characteristics make it very safe and attractive:

• Calm waters: The absence of large waves and the shallow depth at the shore make it ideal for children to bathe and play without excessive risks, always under the watchful eye of adults.
• Lifeguards: The presence of a lifeguard service in summer is a plus for parents' peace of mind.
• Activities: Older children can safely start snorkeling or paddle surfing, discovering the cove's fascinating marine life.
• Nearby services: The proximity to restaurants and bathrooms makes logistics with the little ones much easier. We can have an ice cream or eat something without having to move far from the cove.

Our recommendation is that children wear water shoes to protect their feet from the pebbles and make their experience much more comfortable. With a little planning, families will find in Cala Les Bassetes a perfect place to enjoy a different and adventure-filled beach day.

What to Do in the Surroundings

The location of Cala Les Bassetes is privileged, allowing us to explore a large number of places of interest in its surroundings:

• ### El Peñón de Ifach (Calpe)

The iconic Peñón de Ifach, symbol of Calpe and a Natural Park, is within easy reach. We can climb to its summit to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the coast or simply admire it from below and visit the Calpe fishing port, famous for its fish market.

• ### Calpe

The municipality of Calpe itself deserves a visit. Its old town, its urban beaches (Arenal-Bol and La Fossa-Levante), and its lively promenade offer a perfect combination of leisure and culture. Don't miss the Baños de la Reina, ancient Roman fish farms.

• ### Benissa Pueblo

The historic center of Benissa is a medieval jewel. Its cobbled streets, stately homes, and imposing Cathedral of the Marina (la Puríssima Xiqueta) transport us to another era. It is ideal for a cultural walk and to taste the local cuisine.

• ### Moraira and Teulada

A few kilometers away, Moraira is a charming fishing village with a more exclusive atmosphere, beautiful coves, and a castle on the beach. Teulada, its historic nucleus, offers a very interesting rural and cultural contrast.

• ### Altea

Known as the 'Dome of the Mediterranean' for its church with blue and white domes, Altea is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. Its cobbled streets, art galleries, and viewpoints are a magnet for artists and tourists. It is perfect for a romantic sunset stroll.

• ### Sierra de Bernia

For nature and hiking lovers, the Sierra de Bernia offers spectacular routes, including the famous 'Forat de Bernia', a natural tunnel that goes through the mountain and offers impressive views.

What to Do When It Rains

Although the Costa Blanca is famous for its sun, sometimes rain makes an appearance. But don't worry, there are many indoor activities to enjoy in the surroundings of Cala Les Bassetes:

• ### Museums in Calpe and Benissa

Calpe has several small museums, such as the Collectibles Museum or the Fester Museum of Moors and Christians, which offer us a view of local history and traditions. In Benissa, we can visit the Taller Ivars Art Center, which houses temporary exhibitions, or the Casa Museo Abargues, an 18th-century mansion.

• ### Shopping Centers

If you feel like a day of shopping or going to the movies, the nearest shopping center is Portal de la Marina in Ondara, about 25-30 minutes by car. It offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cinemas.

• ### Gastronomy and Enology

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to immerse ourselves in the local gastronomy. We can visit a winery inland (like those in the Marina Alta) for a wine tasting, or simply enjoy a long meal at one of the many restaurants in the area, trying typical dishes at a leisurely pace.

• ### Spas and Thermal Baths

Some hotels in Calpe and Benissa offer spa and wellness services. It is an excellent option to relax and take care of yourself while the weather is not suitable for the beach.

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