Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort is located in the Costa Calida region of Spain. Its capital is Murcia, and it neighbours the region of Alicante, also known as the Costa Blanca. Each region offers a variety of tourist attractions and activities. This area is known for its diverse range of experiences, making it an excellent destination for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, foodies, and beach lovers alike. Here we will take a look at what you can explore and enjoy in and around both regions.
Beaches
Perhaps the biggest attraction of the area is the many miles of beautiful coastline just a short drive away. Highlights include the Mar Menor which is Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon and is known for its calm and shallow waters. It’s a great place for swimming, water sports, and sunbathing. La Manga del Mar Menor, a narrow strip of land separating the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular tourist destination with numerous resorts and beaches.
Another nearby beach is Playa de Cala Flores, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky surroundings. It’s a great place for snorkelling and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. A bit further south of Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort, within the Calblanque Regional Park, you’ll find Playa de Calblanque. This is a pristine, undeveloped beach surrounded by natural dunes and cliffs. It’s a great spot for hiking and enjoying a more secluded beach experience.
Costa Blanca offers a diverse range of beaches, from bustling urban beaches with a lively atmosphere to more secluded, tranquil coves surrounded by natural beauty. Several beaches are well-suited for families with children, offering shallow waters and amenities like playgrounds and beachside restaurants.Whether you’re seeking a vibrant beach with water sports and entertainment or a quiet cove for relaxation and solitude, Costa Blanca has a beach to suit your preferences.
Gastronomy
Coastal Spain offers a rich and diverse gastronomic experience that is heavily influenced by its proximity to the sea. It is not only delicious but also deeply rooted in local traditions and ingredients. When visiting the coastal areas close to Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort, be sure to savour the unique flavours and culinary experiences that this region has to offer. This coastline is particularly known for its fresh seafood, olive oil, aromatic herbs, and vibrant flavours. Here are some highlights of the kind of dishes you will find in the beach bars and restaurants in Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort, and in the local areas:
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Paella
Paella is one of Spain’s most iconic dishes, and it’s especially popular along the Mediterranean coast. It’s a saffron-infused rice dish typically prepared with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, chicken, rabbit, and vegetables.
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Tapas
These small, flavourful dishes can include seafood, olives, cheese, cured meats, and more. You’ll find a wide range of tapas options, and they are often served with a glass of wine or a cold beer.
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Seafood
Coastal Spain is a seafood lover’s paradise. Common seafood dishes include grilled sardines (espeto de sardinas), fried fish (pescaíto frito), and seafood stews like zarzuela. Fresh catches of the day are prominently featured in coastal menus.
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Gazpacho
This chilled tomato-based soup is perfect for the hot coastal summers. It’s made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and garlic, all blended together with olive oil and vinegar. Gazpacho is refreshing and served as a starter or a light meal.
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Sangria and Wine
Enjoy a glass of local wine, sangria, or refreshing cava (Spanish sparkling wine) with your meal.
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Desserts
Coastal regions also have delightful desserts like flan, churros with chocolate, and turron (nougat), which is often enjoyed during the Christmas season.
Wine Tourism
Wine tourism in these regions provides an opportunity to savour the flavours of Spain and appreciate the rich winemaking heritage that has been passed down through generations. One example is Jumilla, which is one of the most famous wine-producing areas in the Murcia region. It’s known for its robust red wines made primarily from the Monastrell grape variety. You can visit numerous wineries in Jumilla, take guided tours of vineyards, and participate in wine tastings. Don’t miss the chance to explore the wine museum, which provides insights into the region’s winemaking history.
Fiestas and Festivals
The regions surrounding Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort are known for their vibrant and lively festivals and fiestas, which are deeply rooted in Spanish culture and tradition. These festivals offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, enjoy traditional food and music, and witness the vibrant and passionate spirit of the local communities.
Here are some of the most notable fiestas and festivals celebrated in these regions:
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Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Semana Santa, which is held the week before Easter, is celebrated throughout Spain, with elaborate processions and religious events. The city of Murcia is known for its impressive processions, featuring intricate floats and religious statues.
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Bando de la Huerta
This festival, held during the Spring Festival in April, celebrates the agricultural traditions of the Murcia region. It features parades with people dressed in traditional attire, showcasing local produce, and offering a wide array of food and entertainment.
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Romería de la Fuensanta
In September, this pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Fuensanta takes place in Murcia. Pilgrims from all over the region travel to the sanctuary to pay homage to the patron saint of the city.
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Festival Internacional del Cante de las Minas
Held in the town of La Unión, this festival celebrates Flamenco music and dance. It includes competitions and performances by renowned Flamenco artists.
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Hogueras de San Juan (Fires of Saint John)
This is one of Alicante’s most famous festivals, celebrated in June. It involves the creation of elaborate papier-mâché sculptures, known as “ninots,” which are displayed throughout the city. The festival culminates with the burning of these sculptures on the night of June 24th, marking the summer solstice.
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Alicante Carnival
The Carnival of Alicante is a fun and lively celebration with colourful parades, costumes, music, and dancing. It typically takes place in February or March.
Other places of interest near Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort:
Murcia City: The capital of the region, Murcia City, is famous for its historic architecture, including the stunning Cathedral of Murcia (Catedral de Santa María). You can also explore the charming old town, visit the Real Casino de Murcia, and enjoy the local cuisine in the many restaurants and tapas bars.
Sierra Espuña: This natural park offers hiking and outdoor activities in a lush mountainous landscape. You can explore the forests, go rock climbing, or simply enjoy a peaceful picnic.
Cartagena: This historic port city has a rich Roman heritage, including the Roman Theatre, which is well-preserved and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cartagena also offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife.
Mazarrón: Known for its beautiful coastline, Mazarrón is a great place for beach lovers. It’s also home to the historic mining town of La Unión, which has a fascinating mining museum.
Lorca: This city is famous for its historic castle, the Castillo de Lorca, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Lorca also hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
Alicante City: Alicante is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, such as Postiguet Beach, and its historic attractions, including Santa Bárbara Castle. Stroll along the Explanada de España promenade and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Benidorm: A popular resort town in Alicante, Benidorm offers stunning beaches, water parks like Aqualandia and Terra Mitica theme park, and a bustling entertainment scene.
Costa Blanca: Explore the picturesque coastal towns along the Costa Blanca, each offering its own unique charm, beaches, and water sports opportunities.
Elche: Known for its palm groves, Elche is famous for the Palmeral of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to the Elche Mystery Play, a historic theatrical event.
Altea: This charming town is characterized by its whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and a beautiful old town. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture and enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.
Guadalest: Visit the picturesque village of Guadalest, known for its stunning mountain scenery and the historic Castle of San José.
Tabarca Island: Take a boat trip to Tabarca Island, located off the coast of Alicante. It offers clear waters for snorkelling and a quaint fishing village to explore.
Conclusion to Tourism in and Around Santa Rosalia Lake and Life Resort
As we’ve covered above, the are surrounding Santa Rosalia Lake and Life resort boasts lots of incredible opportunities to really immerse yourself in Spain’s rich cultural heritage, ranging from food and wine, to relaxing on the many beaches, to visiting museums and learning about this fascinating area. There really is something for everyone.
