The Costa Calida / Murcia Region
The Costa Calida is situated in the South East of Spain. To the north lies the Costa Blanca and to the south lies the Costa de Almeria.
Translating as the "Warm Coast" Costa Calida forms the coastline of the Murcia region. Well known for its mild climate, it enjoys sunshine for in excess of 320 days per year, more than any other in region in Spain. The sun is at its hottest during the summer months, with temperatures rarely falling below 30°C (86°F). Winters are typically very mild with averages hovering around 18°C (64°F).
The area is reputed to have one of the most pleasant climates in the world according to the World Health Organisation. There are so many reasons for coming to this area and many people who come as holidaymakers eventually return to live here. One of Spains best kept secrets. An unspoilt area with 250km of beaches along the shores of two seas: the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor.
Cosmopolitan Murcia is a must see, with its Cathedral, boutiques, department stores and shopping centres with the leading brands in fashion.
This thriving city boasts cinemas, theatres, museums, concerts, art galleries and exhibitions, the casino of Murcia not to mention its many bars and restaurants where you can try Murcia's fabulous cuisine.
The region has numerous shopping centres, two being being Nueva Condominia and Dos Mares.
Nueva Condominia is just past the city of Murcia (A7 Junction 760) just 15 minutes drive away from El Valle. Right next to the football stadium for Real Murcia this new shopping mall complex with some 200 shops includes many U.K high street chains that you will be familiar with. It also provides a huge range of restaurants, 10-pin bowling and 6-screen cinema.
Dos Mares can be found heading North out of San Javier on the N332 and is just 25 minutes drive away from El Valle. Here, as well as its many shops, you can also find a cinema, 10 Pin Bowling and food hall.
Aqua Natura Murcia / Terra Natura Murcia
The Water Park (Terra Aqua) and Animal Park (Terra Natura) are situated near Murcia and just15 minutes drive from El Valle.
(Exit 136 off the A30/A7)
A great family day out, the water park is more suited for youger children than the water park at Torrevieja (as a rough guide below 13 years of age) and also has a zoo and adventure park.
(Link for parks in Benidorm and Murcia. Click on the relevant tabs!)
www.terranatura.com/Eng/Inicio/Index.aspx
Aquopolis Torrevieja
The Water Park (Aquopolis) is situated above Torrevieja and is a great day out. Aimed at both young and older children there are water themed attractions to suit the whole family.
30 minute drive from El Valle as you head North on the N332.
(As you pass through Torrevieja on the N332 look out for the sign "CV-905 Centro Ciudad." The exit lane splits in two. Take the left hand lane - straight ahead and then take the next exit lane and at the roundabout take the 3rd exit.)
www.aquopolis.es/torrevieja
Mar Menor Go KartsA great day out for all ages, positioned close to San Javier Airport heading towards Los Alcazares. It is open from 11am - 11pm. http://www.gokartsmarmenor.com
Charter Muffy
All year round day cruises, boat charter, angling and diving trips. Enjoy a relaxing day visiting and exploring local islands and beaches. Swim and snorkel in the warm Mar Menor waters or see the Mar Menor by night with a short cruise to the Isle of Pediguera, explore the island and enjoy an evening meal watching the sunset. Charter Muffy can also arrange sea and lake fishing trips. www.los-alcazares.com/muffy
Mar Menor (small sea)
Just 20 minutes from El Valle, the Mar Menor is a 130 square km inland lagoon, which is contained by a narrow strip of land (La Manga), which separates it from the Mediterranean Sea. It's warm, shallow water and soft sandy beaches with numerous children’s play areas on the sand, make it an ideal place for all the family.
This setting has everything you need for water sports. Great weather, a constant breeze, calm and shallow waters (less than seven metres at the deepest point) no wonder it is considered one of Europe's best sailing destinations. Water sports enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with sailing, canoeing, swimming, water-skiing, jet skiing, fly surfing, windsurfing and every other type of nautical activity you can imagine.
Los Alcazares is the nearest beach resort around 20 minutes away. It has many bars and restaurants and excellent beaches for you to enjoy the warm waters of the Mar Menor.
Long promenades with beach side cafes and bars run along side the beaches from San Pedro del Pintar to Santiago del la Ribera and on past Los Alcazares.
San Pedro De Salinas is at the end of ‘the strip’ and is famed for the mineral mud baths. There are nice walks on extended walkways and going through the nature reserve.
Roldan, Balsicas and Torre Pacheco are also nearby and offer traditional Spanish bars and eating places.
The ferry departs Santiago de la Ribera starting from 10am then every 2 hours to La Manga Puerto Harbour on the calm Mar Menor waters. La Manga harbour has a selection of bars and restaurants to relax and enjoy a drink or meal. Or if you prefer, hop on one of the many buses and tourist trains and explore La Manga.
Cartagena
The historical Naval City of Cartagena with it's many castles is also a must see. It is a walled town and has a fine harbour defended by forts. Cartagena is only half an hours drive from El Valle Golf Resort.
Cartagena Port Catamaran Cruise
Discover Cartagena by sea. The cruiser offer daily tours from the quayside taking approximately one hour. From the sea you can admire the historic fort and hilltop castle, and you will also discover the harbour area.
Further afield
To the North try the beautiful long beaches of Mil Palmeras, Dehesa de Campoamor, La Mata and Gaudamar to name a few. To the South try the Nature reserve and beaches of Calblanque or the stunning beaches around Mazarron.
Within 2 hours by car you can reach the popular City of Benidorm or go South for 3 hours and you can be skiing or trekking in the breath taking mountainous region of Sierra Navada. Even the drive there is said to be stunning.