Murcia

Mar Menor

The most beautiful natural wonder on the Murcian coast is the Mar Menor. Only 15 minutes from the resort, the Mar Menor and La Manga the strip of land that keeps the Mediterranean Sea back, is the largest salt-water lagoon in Europe. It is "the largest swimming pool in the world" according to the opinions of the famous swimmer and Hollywood actress Esther Williams.

The Mar Menor's salinity provides buoyancy so it is, supposedly, one of the safest places to swim in the world, it is also renowned for it’s high water temperatures which are retained well in to the autumn months combined with it’s remarkable sporting infrastructure it is one of the most popular places in Europe for the practice and training of all kinds of water sport. These include Jet skiing, wind surfing, sailing, fishing, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Originating as a small bay the La Manga Strip emerged from centuries of sand being pushed by sea currents onto an under-water volcanic range which stretches up to Cabo de Palos. This formed a long peninsula of sand dunes that has progressively closed of the cove to the point where today only a system of canals keep the Mar Menor from complete separation from the Mediterranean. This natural breakwater is 22km long 300m wide, is made up of sandy deposits and has more than 40 km of Blue Flag beaches, you have to walk a good distance in these tranquil warm waters before acheivng any depth required for swimming, making it perfect for young ones to safeley play.

Take in the beautiful views of the Mar Menor from the extensive level promenades that run along side the soft sandy beaches with numerous children’s play areas, perfect for cycling or a relaxing walk (with pushchairs or wheel chairs) and stop off at one of the many beach side bars, cafes, shops or restaurants.
Due to the mineral-rich waters and high temperatures these salt lakes, are said to have therapeutic effects, very popular and highly recommended for people suffering from many ailments including rheumatism, poor blood circulation, stress and many other conditions related to skin and joints, because of this over the years these natural spas has developed a significant spa tourism industry.
At the northern end the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar, a beautiful nature reserve and special preservation area for Migratory birds. With special ecological and natural characteristics, a wetland that is of international importance.
There are five islands in the Mar Menor, and they are mainly uninhabited. Isla del Barón and is the largest of these, located near the centre of the lagoon, Isla Perdiguera has bars and restaurants situated near its small harbour, a popular destination for boat excursions during the summer months.

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