Area Focus page 5

You hear the name Benidorm and you think of Skyscrapers, beer and chips. Would it surprise you to read that the Benidorm of today has cast off its old-fashioned image and now words such as 'luxury' 'high class', 'spotless', 'unique' and 'stylish' are used alongside that old favourite, and still relevant, 'fun'?

The history of San Javier, as is the case of other municipalities in this area, is influenced to a huge degree by its location on the inland shore of the Mar Menor, the largest saltwater lake in Europe and one of the most recognizable geographic areas of Spain

Right in the heart of the Ricote Valley, on the banks of the River Segura, lies Blanca, known to our ancestors as La Negra or "The Black", due to the colour of the mountain where it lies.

San Pedro del Pinatar is at the touristic heart of the Costa Cálida. Situated between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea, this small seaside town is famous for its fishing background, therapeutic mud baths, salt flats and vast stretches of sand.

Famous for its summer festivals and its dedication to agricultural and nautical activities, San Javier, located in the Mar Menor, goes way beyond the mere expectations of beaches. Cool air and the fresh taste of seafood provide alternatives to this area, whose main tourist hotspots are Santiago de la Ribera and La Manga del Mar Menor.

Molina de Segura lies about 10 km from the regional capital on the left bank of the River Segura. The main trunk road N-301 also runs through the town, making Molina an important transport hub, subsequently attracting important industries to set up in the area.