LOS URRUTIAS
Los Urrutias is a fishing village in the autonomous community (comunidad) of Murcia and is located on the Costa Calida overlooking La Manga, the narrow strip of land (length 22 km and width up to 1.5 km) that separates the Mar Menor from the open waters of the Mediterranean.
The town owes its name to the first Christian settlers of the area, who bore the Basque surname Urrutia. But now it is home to many from the far north, none of whom are immune to the quiet charms and warm climate of Los Urrutias!
Los Urrutias' main attraction remains its long sandy beach, with the warm waters of the Mar Menor, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon, ensuring that swimming in the sea is possible practically all year round. There are hardly any waves in the lagoon, and the prevailing breeze makes the area ideal for water sports enthusiasts. There is a marina and numerous water sports centres where you can find a wide range of services, such as jet skiing, canoeing, water skiing, windsurfing, kite surfing, etc.
As in most places on this coastline, the atmosphere is still very authentic. For many Spaniards from the neighbouring cities of Cartagena and Murcia and even from Madrid further afield, this region has become their holiday or weekend destination over the past few decades. But foreign tourists, including many northern Europeans, also found their way, and this led to further growth in Los Urrutias and along the entire coast of the inland sea. Since the beginning of the 21st century, more and more tourists have also been investing in real estate as a second property.
As is usual in many beach resorts, Los Urrutias' population swells enormously in the summer, but the size of the community, which has been boosted in recent years by the tourist population of the Estrella de Mar urbanisation, ensures that it remains lively the rest of the year! Amongst the amenities there are two hotels, a medical centre, a marina and a number of shops and supermarkets.
The Costa Calida is situated midway between two neighbouring costas, at the top, the Costa Blanca and at the bottom, the Costa de Almeria.
The best-known cities are the Moorish city of Murcia (the 7th largest city in Spain) and the historically famous port city of Cartagena, both only 20 minutes away.
The better known seaside resorts of the Costa Calida include Lo Pagan, San Pedro del Pinatar, Santiago de la Ribera, San Javier, Los Alcazares, Cabo de Palos and La Manga.
Because of its relatively lesser known to the general public, this region is very unique. No crowded resorts, no loud nightlife, no traffic jams. Connoisseurs and insiders know this all too well.
However, this region combines built-up and modern bathing resorts around the Mar Menor with unspoilt and typically Spanish villages. Here you will find plenty of authentic spots where sun, sea and beach are still all yours.
Costa Calida means 'warm coast' and owes its name to the microclimate that prevails here and is created by the large evaporation of the water of the salt lakes. The climate here is brilliant with more than 300 days of sunshine a year and an average temperature of 18°C. One can speak of the best climate in Spain. A real climatic paradise thanks to the support of the inland mountains, which protect the coastal area from the wind and ensure pleasant temperatures all year round. This Mediterranean subtropical climate ensures summer temperatures of 28°C to 32°C and mild spring temperatures in winter.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the climate is the most pleasant and healthiest in Europe. This climate is very pleasant for people suffering from rheumatism and sciatica.
The pure air, mild Mediterranean climate and the therapeutic use of the mineral-rich water of the salt lakes have a healing effect.
The Costa Calida has an agricultural hinterland and is considered the vegetable garden of Spain. You will also find numerous protected nature reserves, the best known of which is Calblanque, and many salt lakes.
The exclusive character, given its lesser name, gives this region its unique character.
And the tranquillity that you immediately experience gives this region a high chill factor.
The Costa Calida and its Mar Menor are also the perfect location for hikers and cyclists. The cyclists will find a quiet hinterland full of nature. The walkers can enjoy this beautiful nature as well as the wonderful boulevards and promenades along all the sublime beaches.
This region is also widely known and recognised as a true golfing paradise. Just think of La Manga Club, Las Colinas Golf (Costa Blanca South), Roda golf, Lo Romero golf, etc...
Long summer days, little rain and clean air (there is no industry in the area) are the climatic characteristics of this area. Rest, relaxation, exercise, conviviality, indigenous food with plenty of fish, vegetables and fruit ensure a healthy life.
In short, the Costa Calida and the Mar Menor offer a wide range of possibilities, assets and advantages for potential buyers in Spain with favourable property prices.