Costa Cálida: the most beautiful places, nature and wellness

Costa Cálida: the most beautiful places, nature and wellness

Archena Spa

At Balneario de Archena, you'll experience a truly authentic Spanish wellness experience. The history and charm that this place exudes are impressive! The spa facilities are modern and comprehensive. The thermal treatments are wonderfully relaxing. All programs are supervised by a doctor specializing in hydrology. If you want to discover the real Spain, far from the mass tourism of the Spanish Costas, this is the perfect choice! Here you can relax in a beautiful natural setting and let your stress melt away...

Salt lakes in San Pedro del Pinatar

Combine a visit to the mud baths with the salt lakes in San Pedro del Pinatar. San Pedro del Pinatar is also a great base for exploring the Costa Cálida. The Salinas de San Pedro Natural Park is a protected area covering an impressive 850 hectares. Here you can spot flamingos, cormorants, and wading birds, among other birds. So don't forget your binoculars!

Several hiking trails are marked, such as the "Sendero de el Coterillo" and the "Sendero Azul Senda de los Tarays." Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful boardwalks and observation huts. The visitor center provides more information about the area and the hiking trails.

Tip: In the harbor of San Pedro del Pinatar, you can order delicious and affordable daily menus. Restaurant Torombölo is highly recommended.

Mud baths Las Charcas in Lo Pagán

Some people pay a fortune for a mud treatment. In Lo Pagán, however, it's completely free! The combination of salt, shallow water, and the sun creates a thick layer of mud on the bottom.

The mud has great therapeutic value and helps with numerous ailments such as arthritis, gout, and rheumatism. Older people, in particular, use mud baths.

Special jetties are provided for easy access to the water. Scoop up some mud from the bottom and spread it all over your body. Then let the mud dry until it forms a hard layer. Finally, rinse the mud off in the saltwater and you'll look 10 years younger. A must-do if you're in the Murcia area!

Tip: The mud baths are free to visit year-round, but the water is especially warm in summer. Free parking is available on Calle Campoamor.

History in Cartagena

The Costa Cálida doesn't have many beautiful, large cities. Cartagena, however, is an exception. This beautiful port city has a long, eventful history and is one of the oldest cities in Spain.

Evidence of this includes the Roman theater and the castle (Castillo de la Concepción). The town hall and the cathedral are also architectural gems. Shoppers can indulge themselves in Calle Mayor, a lively shopping street.

Tip: Stroll along the beautiful boulevard along the harbor or admire the sunset from the Castillo de la Concepción.

Eating tapas in Murcia

Murcia isn't a must-visit city if you're staying in the area. However, there are some festivities not to be missed, such as "El bando de la Huerta" (The Huerta Band) and "Semana Santa." The atmosphere during these periods is exuberant, and there are beautiful processions to admire.

Murcia doesn't have many sights to see. However, the cathedral is definitely worth a visit. The exterior is especially beautiful. Be sure to try some tapas while you're in Murcia. Near the cathedral, you'll find plenty of great tapas bars where you can eat delicious food for very little money!

Places and spots that are really worth it

Nature reserves, hiking, and mountains in the Murcia area. Mountains and deserted roads are everywhere around Murcia. So feel free to explore nature. Hiking here can be a challenge, as there are few, if any, marked trails. This is in stark contrast to the Costa Blanca. Sometimes it feels like a no-man's-land where they'd rather not see tourists. However, the advantage is that you'll often encounter no one here in the mountains.

• Cabo Cope and Puntas de Calnegre: The Cabo Cope and Puntas de Calnegre Natural Park is located near the beautiful town of Calabardina. This remote area is also a paradise for nature lovers. The Cabo Cope Natural Trail begins at the beach in Calabardina. Hike up the dragon-shaped mountain (Cabo Cope). From the tower, you'll have a view of the bay of Calabardina and the mountains beyond. A great thing to do if you're in the Murcia area. Then, drive on to Cala Blanca beach to admire unique rock formations. The hollowed-out caves are home to birds and other animals. A swim at this secluded beach is a must! The nature reserve is also ideal for mountain biking.

Tip: Have a bite to eat at Restaurant Calabardina on the beach.

• Sierra Espuña
• Carrascoy and El Valle
• Sierra de la Pila
• Valle de Ricote y Cieza

Eating and drinking in Murcia

• Around Plaza de Belluga in Murcia: Vinoteca de la Torre is an excellent starting point on Plaza de Belluga, especially if you're looking to explore Murcia wines. The wine list also features several other Spanish wine regions. A tip: order a delicious cheese platter with it – a wonderful pairing with the vinos!

• La Pequeña Taberna: La Pequeña Taberna is one of those restaurants in Murcia that's practically a must-visit. The quality of the food, the variety of the menu, the excellent service, and the personalized attention will make you fall in love with this restaurant.

• Restaurante El Churra: Typically Spanish. That's El Churra. From simple tapas, like the well-known Murcian tapa "marineras" (Russian salad with anchovies on a breadstick), to a delicious steak.

• Madre de Dios: A slightly simpler, but certainly delicious and affordable restaurant is Madre de Dios. Another well-known one in Murcia. El Pasaje de Zabalburu: Looking for a more upscale tapas bar? Then go to El Pasaje de Zabalburu. It's also known as "La Barra de moda" (the trendy bar).