Client: Michael Lee
Copyright 2008 Michael Lee
Calblanque National Park: La Manga, Spain's Hideaway for Nature Lovers
Imagine a secluded beach of golden sand surrounded by hills covered in beautiful flora and fauna. If this is your idea of paradise, then Calblanque National Park is for you.
This hidden paradise lies just south of La Manga and the Mar Menor on the Costa Calida. This is the two hundred and fifty kilometer stretch of coastline that borders the province of Murcia, Spain. It is a short drive from the dual carriageway that leads to La Manga.
It was declared a natural park in 1987 and a nature reserve in 1992. This assures protection from invasion and development. It is one of the last remaining untouched areas of the entire Mediterranean coastline.
The Atmosphere:
Calblanque National Park is an untainted strip of Mediterranean coastline. It is made up of sandy beaches, sand dunes, tiny coves, beautiful cliffs and hills of forest. On the outskirts of the park lie remains of old silver, copper and tin mines.
Here, the only sounds you hear as you walk slowly along the sandy shores are the waves breaking at your feet. The fragility of the sand dunes is protected by wooden walkways built over them. The natural beauty and tranquility of the area is comprised of a finely balanced eco-system protected from population.
The total length of the area is about thirteen kilometers long. Its mountains overlook the beaches at about one thousand feet high. From the tops of the hills you can see across acres of pine trees, all the way to the sea.
A popular walking route that is about fifteen kilometers long reaches from Calblanque National Park to Cala Reona. The walk is considered medium difficulty and takes approximately two hours to complete.
On the east side of the parking lot at Calblanque you can find a barely visible path that will lead you up into and around the hills. You will enjoy a fabulous view of the sands of Calblanque. Then you will reach a steep decline from which you can see Cala Reona. You may choose to continue into town for a meal or leisure activities, or return to the tranquility of Calblanque.
The Climate:
Costa Calida means warm coast. This area is reputed to maintain one of the most pleasant climates in existence. The winters are very mild. The summers are hot, but not uncomfortable. The coastal sun shines an average of 320 days out of the year. Rainfall is rare and averages between two and two and a half inches on the coastal plain throughout the year. The mountains inland receive a bit more moisture.
The Wildlife:
Calblanque offers many walking trails and cycling paths. The park is famous for its variety of wildlife including:
� Eagles
� Woodpeckers
� The rare eagle owl (Bonelli's eagle)
� The endangered sea turtle
This is your opportunity to view the coast of Spain as it once was. Please be sure to respect this fragile and delicate eco-system.
� Remain on established tracks
� Do not walk on the dunes
� Do not walk on the vegetation
� Do not disturb the birds
� Prohibited activities in the park are unleashed dogs, bonfires, camping, picnicking and parking outside designated areas
It is not recommended that walkers go near the mining wells. Many of the salt flats are home to and breeding grounds for various species of birds. Please respect the nature around you when walking in this area. It is recommended that you dismount if you are riding cycles for your safety and the safety of the wildlife.
Calblanque is a natural area blooming with beauty and tranquility. The beaches of golden sand and clear, sparkling waters welcome you to a true natural paradise.