Sunny Southern Spain!

Spain, with it's miles of coastline boasts shores on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.  Along the "Costa Calida", on the Mediterranean Sea, the Calblanque National Park offers almost 6,000 acres of pristine beaches, hidden swimming and diving coves, hiking and biking trails as well as salt flats complete with flamingos!  The mountains, part arid, part evergreen, offer dramatic landscapes as sheer cliffs drop to the sea below.  There are long stretches of sandy beach as well as secluded coves. These coves, called "calas", can be sandy while others are rocky and the crystal clear waters provide an amazing view of mother nature's rock formations below the water's surface.  The park has no services but surprisingly offers a section with shaded parking!  Remember to pack a lunch, bring your blanket and umbrella  - then you'll be ready to sit back and watch (and listen) as the surf gently rolls in.

Cabo de Palos 

The town of Cabo de Palos sits at the edge of the Calblanque National Park and is known among other things, for diving.  The protected marine reserve is located between the Cabo de Palos light house and Isla Hormigas.  On any given day, several dive boats carry divers and snorkelers to explore the mystical, colorful world that lies below.  Of course, after a day at sea, whether diving, snorkeling or swimming, a good meal and a refreshing "cerveza" (beer) awaits at any one of the many restaurants, cafes or pubs that circle the fishing boat marina.  The marina is filled with working boats that belong to the local fisherman - the catch of the day is always fresh!

Chiringuito - Faro/Cabo de Palos

For those that prefer the land side of activities, there is a easy but absolutely beautiful walk from the fishing marina to the lighthouse and back.  The treat upon arrival to the lighthouse is the "chiringuito" - a beach bar.  So while not exactly on the beach, beachgoers can walk up for a chilled glass of wine, cold bottle of beer or ice cold water.  Food is minimal at best, although some larger ones do offer a menu. Fast, friendly and affordable - and we're taking on the challenge to visit as many "chiringuitos" as we can find!



Whether a day trip or short stay along the Costa Calida of Spain, a visit to the Calblaque National Park and Cabo de Palos should be on anyone's list of "to-do"!  The Spanish people are kind, warm and friendly.  Spanish food is delicious and fresh produce abounds.  Sangrias, "cervezas" and vinos are refreshing and the tapas are the tastiest - and prices won't break any budgets!!  All the more reason to put Spain on your travel radar today!