Spanish Road Trip 2023 - Day 1, 1st November - Benidorm to San Pedro del Pinatar/Lo Pagan, Murcia, Costa Calida. 150km
Let the road trip begin..... This years trip is going to be slightly different to previous years, which we have taken during the summer months, due to other commitments, this year we began our journey on 1st November.
The change in season raised questions: Would accommodations be easier or harder to find? Would they come at a more budget-friendly price? And how would the cities, towns, and attractions compare to their liveliness during the summer months?
Join us on our journey as we bid farewell to Benidorm. This initial part of the trip was a short one, as we headed South to San Pedro del Pinatar. This brief stopover served as a prelude to the upcoming days.
En route to San Pedro del Pinatar, we couldn't resist a brief detour to La Zenia Boulevard shopping centre. Our stop wasn't just about grabbing a few essentials; it was an opportunity to indulge at one of our favourite restaurants in the area—Che! This Argentinian restaurant takes the dining experience to a whole new level by offering an all-you-can-eat feast right at your table. Once seated, you're presented with bread, rice, chips, salad, and mashed potatoes. The attentive waiters then circulate, presenting a vast selection of meats, most of which are grilled over open fires. It's not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that offers excellent value for money, ensuring you leave the table fully satisfied.
Spanish Road Trip 2023 - Day 1
San Pedro del Pinatar is a charming coastal town located in the province of Murcia, is situated on the Costa Calida, a coastal region in the Southeastern part of Spain, it is positioned between the Mar Menor, a large coastal lagoon, and the Mediterranean Sea, and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes.
The name itself, translates to "St. Peter of the pine" and reflects the town's scenic surroundings and natural beauty.
The town has a rich fishing heritage, and its history is intertwined with salt mining, which still plays a significant role in the local economy.
Attractions and Points of Interest:
Lo Pagan Mud Baths: San Pedro del Pinatar is famous for its therapeutic mud baths located in the natural saltwater lagoons. Visitors come to experience the healing properties of the high salt and mineral content in the mud.
Find detailed information here.
Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park: This protected wetland area is known for its biodiversity and is a habitat for various bird species. The park is an excellent spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Beaches: San Pedro del Pinatar offers several beaches along the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea, providing opportunities for sunbathing and water activities, during the summer months.
The Mills of Quintin and Calcetera: Historic mills built in the early 20th century, these structures were used for transferring water from canals to the salt mines. They provide a glimpse into the town's industrial history.
Local Cuisine: Being a coastal town, San Pedro del Pinatar boasts seafood as a prominent part of its cuisine, enjoy fresh and delicious seafood dishes in local restaurants.
While the town might be quieter this time of the year, it offers a more intimate and relaxed experience for visitors, most of the bars and restaurants were open, but there was a noticeable absence of the vibrant atmosphere typically associated with peak tourist seasons. The streets, though not bustling with the usual energy, offered a unique and more intimate experience for those who choose to explore the town during this quieter period.
Overall, San Pedro del Pinatar is a delightful destination with a mix of natural beauty, historical charm, and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
San Pedro del Pinatar caters to tourists with a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to more upscale choices.
Accommodation - Hotel Arce - 33.34€ including breakfast, on street parking which was FREE.
Our stay here was a brief stopover, and we were on the lookout for something affordable and pleasant—which this place delivered. The rooms, albeit basic, were well-maintained and equipped with all the essentials. Admittedly, the beds adhered to the typical Spanish style of being quite firm, but we still managed to get a decent night's sleep.
One highlight was the inclusive breakfast, featuring croissants, fruit juice, and coffee—a simple yet satisfying start to the day.
Would we consider returning? Absolutely. If we find ourselves in the area and in need of a budget-friendly spot for an overnight stay, this place fits the bill.
Additional pictures below.
