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 250-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. Calblanque was declared a natural park in 1987 and a nature reserve in 1992. This assures protection from encroachment 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 comprised of sandy beaches, sand dunes, tiny coves, beautiful cliffs and hills of forests. 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. Existing within the natural beauty and tranquility of the area is a finely balanced eco-system protected from population.
The total length of the area is about 13 kilometers. Its mountains overlook the beaches from about 1,000 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 15 kilometers long reaches from Calblanque National Park to Cala Reona. The walk is considered medium in 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 anywhere. The winters are very mild. The summers are hot, but not uncomfortable. The coastal sun shines an average of 320 days a year. Rainfall is rare and averages between two and two-and-a-half inches on the coastal plain throughout the year. The inland mountains receive just a bit more precipitation.
The Wildlife
Calblanque offers many walking trails and cycling paths. The park is famous for its variety of wildlife including eagles, woodpeckers, rare eagle-owls (known as Bonelli's eagle) and endangered sea turtles.
The park gives you an opportunity to view the coast of Spain as it once was. However, visitors are encouraged to respect this fragile and delicate eco-system and follow several established guidelines.
* Remain on established trails
* Do not walk on the dunes
* Do not walk on the vegetation
* Do not disturb the birds
* Prohibited activities in the park include 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. This is for your safety and the safety of the wildlife.
Calblanque is a natural area blooming with beauty and tranquility. The clear, sparkling waters and golden sand beaches welcome you to a true natural paradise.
