Visitors are usually drawn to vacations in La Manga because of the beaches and endless sunshine. Tourists who embark on vacations in La Manga can't help but soak up the culture along with the sunshine.

Visitors are usually drawn to vacations in La Manga because of the beaches and endless sunshine. The unique land formation of the La Manga strip has become a Mecca for tourists. There is more to La Manga and the Mar Menor region than sand and surf, though. The area is rich in history and culture. Tourists who embark on vacations in La Manga can't help but soak up the culture along with the sunshine.

The resort area of La Manga Del Mar Menor is located at the southern tip of the Costa Blanca. It consists of a 22 kilometer strip of land which separates part of mainland coastal Spain from the Mediterranean Sea. The result of this unique land formation is Mar Menor, Europe's biggest saltwater lake. At its deepest, it reaches a mere eight meters, making it warm year round. In fact, it can reach a temperature of 30 degrees in August at the height of summer. A typical vacation in La Manga usually consists of ample time swimming the azure blue waters while participating in water sports. Mar Menor is home to some of the world's best kite-surfing, sailing, snorkeling, scuba-diving and windsurfing.

The history of La Manga Del Mar Menor is as rich as its terrain and natural resources. It was likely first inhabited by the ancient Romans, as indicated by remains and artifacts discovered there. The Romans highly valued the Mar Menor for its salt content. They eventually developed a lucrative salt-mining industry. Today, its salt is still mined and sold around the world. It is used to season regional cuisine, and its flavor is second to none.

Today's La Manga is a mix of modern architecture and old-world flair. It offers tourists the best of city amenities like shopping, dining and dancing. At a closer look, its ancient history is still evident in its older buildings.

A vacation in La Manga means that tourists are strategically located near other rich historical areas. Two in particular, Cartagena and Murcia, are well worth the half day's drive from La Manga Del Mar Menor. Both have distinctive cultures and are significant cities in Spain's history.

Murcia is the capital city of the region of Murcia. It rests in a low-lying and fertile plain famous for its vineyards. It is known for its production of fine wine. Murcia is actually home to three different denominations of origin for wine: Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla.
Visitors can tour one of its many wineries and sample some of Murcia's best vintages. It is also a renowned bullfighting city. Visitors can learn more about bullfighting history at the Bullfighting Museum of Murcia. Cap the visit off by taking in a bullfight for a truly authentic experience. Murcia is also home to centuries-old cathedrals and plazas for further exploration of the city's history.

Cartagena's history is largely centered around its longstanding naval port. It is home to the Naval Museum as well as the famous National Museum for Underwater Archeology.
An abundance of ancient ruins have been uncovered in Cartagena. They attest to its military significance, as well as its importance as a port. Some of these ruins can be viewed close up. Many artifacts are housed in several of Cartagena's history museums.

A vacation in La Manga is an ideal way to combine the best in relaxation and cultural education. Perhaps this is why so many who vacation in La Manga return year after year.