Water Sports
The Mar Menor because of its serenity and clean waters in addition to its favourable weather conditons is an unequalled area for participating in nautical sports. The Mar Menor is considered to be one of the best areas in the world for sailing.
Two distinct seas, soft breezes, sunny days and a significant sporting infrastructure makes La Manga a sailors paradise, there are two main Marinas, such as the Puerto Tomas Maestre, which is a 15 minute walk from the apartment, or the Port of Cabo de Palos at the beginning of the strip. The Port of Cabo de Palos can be reached via the the local bus for little money on the main road which runs the length of the strip. Numerous sailing, windsurfing and kayak schools, and diving clubs for the lovers of underwater activities are a few of the activities that you can find along the La Manga strip and around the Mar Menor.
There are regular sailings and ferry excursions from the Tomas Maestre Marina. The ferry takes about 40 mins and costs about 4 Euros you can take a bicycle for an extra charge. The ferry goes to the seaside town of Santiago de la Ribera located on the west side of the Mar Menor which has many shops, bars and restaurants. The Tomas Mastre Marina is the largest in the area and home to many expensive boats and yachts. The Marina has a wide variety of bars and restaurants.
Cabo de Palos
Cabo de Palos is situated at the start of the La Manga strip. It is a typical Spanish fishing village with a number of fantastic fish restaurants, bars and cafes. You can take a stroll around the picturesque harbour, watch the fishermen come in with the catch of the day, then sample the delights in one of the excellent restaurants, the perfect spot to spend a relaxing summer evening.
This 'rocky outcrop' into the Mediterranean has beaches on either side and even boasts it's own lighthouse, built in 1865 and until recently housing the largest school for lighthouse keepers in Europe. The tower itself is closed but the grounds are open all year round and it is well worth making the climb for the fantastic views.
This part of the Spanish coast has an abundance of safe, clear and warm waters perfect for exploring the underwater world on a guided dive, or learning how to dive with one of the areas first class diving schools.
One of the other big attractions at Cabo de Palos is the large street market held every Sunday morning, where you can find everything from handbags to carpets, shoes, fruit and vegetables. Why not complete your shopping trip with Sunday lunch in one of the many bars and restaurants in the area.
Cartagena
The old naval city of Cartagena is another place of interest and is only a 40 minute drive away with stunning architecture, a Roman theatre and a castle. Why not take it all in on a bus tour with English commentary outlining the history of the city. You can also take a ferry around the harbour and out into the Mediterranean sea. The Chiva Bus is a guided tour with a difference. Singing, dancing and live music is performed on the bus and a bar is open on board throughout the tour. If your dance tank still has some juice left by the end of the Cartagena tour, you can dance the night away in one of the city´s many clubs.
Murcia Capital
The capital city of the region is only 80 minutes from La Manga and well worth a visit. You can choose to visit the modern shopping centres or if you prefer take in the history or just enjoy the local tapas bars and restaurants.
Golf
Not only is Murcia home to the famous La Manga Golf Club, many other courses have been built around San Javier and Los Alcazares during the past 5 years. Serrena Golf, Roda Golf and Mar Menor Golf Resort also attract players and visitors from all over Spain. Also within walking distance of the apartment is the 9 hole golf course called Veneziola golf set along the Mediterranean.
Go Karting
Take the kids go-karting and enjoy a great family day out. There is also a trackside cafe and the track is conveniently located at the beginning of the strip.
Aquapolis Fun Park
A great day out! Water slides and play areas provide plenty of watery fun for kids and adults alike, and the park is open between June and September.
The Terra Natura Theme Park
A safari park which also includes a water park and over 700m of water slides. The park is divided into continents and features many species of animals.
Photography courtesy of George and Stephen Upson