The Romans called it Belich and referred to it as a port of refuge. It was much deeper in those times so could cope with even the largest of vessels. Over the last hundred years or so, the area has developed into a tourist haven.

As well as the natural importance of the area the mud and clay are said to have therapeutic properties, known for centuries.

The average annual temperature here is 17ºC and the average during the summer is above 21ºC. The winters are very mild, very rarely falling below 10ºC. Rain is also rare here. With over 3000 hours of sunshine a year and the mild climate, the water here can reach 30º in August.

The coast of the Mar Menor is flanked by small towns, in the past homes to fishermen and today, tourist enclaves. San Pedro del Pinatar in the north covers 21.7sq.km and has 15,200 inhabitants. This can swell to 60,000 in the summer months. Below this is San Javier with over 20,000 residents.

With so much water here there is no wonder that the area is a haven for water sports. The possibilities here are endless from sailing to diving, windsurfing and jet skiing.

As you join the Gran Via you will find a large petrol station. Alongside is the very helpful tourist office.

Other places worthy of a visit are Santiago de la Riberera, Los Alcázares and old fishing village and the point at Cabo de Palos with its lighthouse.

If history is of interest to you then you must visit nearby Cartagena with its castles, forts and lighthouses.