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La Manga residents propose year-round ecotourism plan

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Citizen proposal aims for year-round sustainable ecotourism in La Manga.
Photo Credit: Diego Delso

Local residents in La Manga have unveiled a new initiative, “La Manga Crucero”, a citizen-led effort that will transform the iconic 22-kilometre coastal stretch into a year-round, sustainable attraction for tourists. The proposal, created by groups Por un Mar Menor Vivo, SOS Mar Menor, Nuestro Mar Menor, and other individuals, is currently driving its development, treats La Manga as an extended cruise on land and sea, between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean, and is being pitched to support local businesses during the off-peak months, as well as safeguard the delicate and important ecosystems of the saltwater lagoon.

An eco-cultural itinerary across land and sea: Turning La Manga into a year-round attraction

The proposal includes an 8-10 day itinerary packed with environmental, athletic, and historical experiences. Marine enthusiasts can take part in scuba diving within the protected Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve, introductory sailing, and guided coastal interpretation focusing on traditional fishing heritage around the Encañizadas.

On land, on the other hand, the initiative proposes excursions that highlight the region’s rich history and culture through guided hikes to archaeological landmarks such as Las Amoladeras, Cueva Victoria, and Sima de las Palomas. Complementary programming is also part of the plan, with maritime craft workshops, astrotourism, local gastronomy showcases, and family-oriented environmental education forming part of the proposal.

The ‘vibrant squares’ idea and sustainable mobility: How La Manga can both attract people and improve the environment

Additionally, to prevent overcrowding in any one area, the plan has outlined a network of so-called “vibrant squares” along the entire stretch of La Manga. Venues including Plaza Bohemia, El Zoco, and the precinct around Tomas Maestre Port will host various cultural events, performances, and family activities, which will be rotated in cycles. This will keep the area lively even during the off-season, and allow residents and visitors to take part in shows and other interesting activities.

To aid with sustainability, the plan includes a reformed mobility model that advocates replacing heavy private car traffic with a public transit station near Cabo de Palos, park-and-ride lots, low-speed collective shuttles, and expanded walking and cycling areas.

Protecting local species and fragile ecosystems

Protection of the environment will be at the heart of the initiative and is kept in mind for all activities. The project prioritises dune recovery, native flora restoration, light pollution reduction, raised boardwalks over sensitive habitats, and safeguards for loggerhead turtle nesting sites, seagrass meadows, and endangered noble pen shell populations.

Citizens request a test before a full rollout: Making ‘La Manga Crucero’ a reality

To turn this proposal into a reality, the organisers are requesting the local councils of Cartagena and San Javier, together with the Regional Government of Murcia, to launch a feasibility study, open a public participation process, and conduct a test project before a full rollout.

If this new plan is to be made a reality, the stretch of La Manga could not only become a much livelier spot for residents and visitors year round; it could also become more eco-conscious and help to preserve the marine species that also call the area home.

Costa Calida

Still in the Groove live music show comes to La Sal Music Bar this October

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Still in the Groove live music show comes to La Sal Music Bar this October.
Photo Credit: La Sal Music Bar / Facebook

Music lovers on the Costa Calida have something delightful to look forward to during the first days of October, as the popular coastal venue La Sal Music Bar prepares to host the live music show Still in the Groove. Taking place on Sunday, October 4 at 4:30pm, this afternoon event will bring a lively blend of memorable tunes, delicious food, and warm seaside hospitality in Puerto de Mazarron.

A multi-genre setlist for all audiences to enjoy

Still in the Groove will deliver an energetic, multi-genre musical show that will keep the crowd singing and dancing from start to finish. The performance will span a diverse selection of genres, including smooth soul classics, timeless soft rock hits, upbeat reggae rhythms, and feel-good dance anthems. Whether you prefer kicking back to soulful ballads, swaying to infectious rhythms, or stepping onto the dance floor for classic party songs, the varied setlist will have something for everyone and fans of all ages.

Delicious food and drinks by the sea along with live music

La Sal also offers an inviting setting for an ideal weekend outing. Guests can pair the afternoon’s entertainment with the venue’s tasty food menu and refreshing drinks. Emphasising fun and connection, the event encourages everyone in attendance to sing along, hit the dance floor, and soak up the uplifting coastal atmosphere.

Bringing the community together with good food and music

Still in the Groove will capture the essence of a perfect afternoon: good food, good vibes, and groovy music. It will serve as a wonderful occasion for local residents, international expatriates, and visiting holidaymakers to gather, socialise, and celebrate live music together in a relaxed setting.

With Sunday, October 4 fast approaching, planning ahead is recommended for anyone looking to secure a great table for the show. Round up your friends, bring an appetite for fun, and prepare to feel the groove at La Sal starting at 4:30pm.

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Costa Calida Newspaper 17 – 23 Sep 2026

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By Helena EWN • Published: 17 Sep 2026 • 10:00 • 1 minute read

Euro Weekly News delivers the latest news and events for Camposol, Puerto de Mazarron, Cartagena and San Pedro del Pinatar all in one place in English.

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Costa Calida

Three Murcia restaurants shortlisted for prestigious national award

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Three Murcia restaurants are shortlisted for prestigious national culinary awards.
Photo Credit: @barrapomelo / Instagram

Three new establishments in the Region of Murcia have been shortlisted for prestigious culinary awards, continuing to solidify the region as one of Spain’s premier culinary destinations. The three impressive restaurants, Pepe Juan Barra, Barra Pomelo, and La Macetúa, were recognised for the 2025 TheFork Awards, a national competition that celebrates the very best of the recent additions to Spain’s vibrant gastronomy scene, and shines a spotlight on innovation in the kitchens across the country.

The three shortlisted eateries and their concepts: standout restaurants in a standout city

The first of the establishments, Pepe Juan Barra, was born in the historic centre of Murcia, on Trapería Street. The concept of the restaurant is to “recover the spirit of the bars of yesteryear and bring it to our land, taking special care of the product and the cuisine,” according to the official TheFork website. A collaboration between Juan Guillamón and Pepe Morales, two chefs from Murcia with different backgrounds but a shared understanding of gastronomy, the owners have created “a welcoming, informal place […] where enjoying the atmosphere is just as important as eating well.”

The next restaurant, Barra Pomelo, is a contemporary gastronomic bar, based on the demonstration and tasting of seasonal products, which are cooked without fire: cured, marinated, pickled, ceviche-style, tempered and seasoned. TheFork describes it as a “close and precise experience, where the product, the technique and the balance of flavour are the true protagonists.”

Finally, the third of Murcia’s shortlisted entries, La Macetúa, endeavours to “revive the authentic Murcian bar, showcase local products, and, above all, support nearby producers who offer high-quality products and are committed to their community.”

National recognition, hand-chosen by Michelin-starred chefs

The restaurants were chosen by an elite jury of 56 Michelin-starred chefs, from a total of 41 shortlisted establishments from 20 different Spanish provinces and regions. Murcia’s impressive offering showcases the draw and creativity of its culinary scene, with one of the highest numbers of nominees overall, behind only Catalonia, with nine nominees; the Valencian Community, with six; and Madrid, with five.

This year’s selection also showcased other, emerging culinary destinations, with first-time shortlisted entries from regions like Asturias and Extremadura.

The public gets a say: how to vote for the winner of the 2025 TheFork Awards

Now that the experts have made their decisions, the selection process for the 2025 TheFork Awards will now turn to the public. Foodies across Spain will be able to cast their votes on the official TheFork website until the deadline, Sunday, October 11. The establishment that receives the highest number of public votes will win the People’s Choice Award for 2025, which last year was won by The Library, a combined wine boutique, gastropub, and private club in Madrid.

For locals and visitors in southeastern Spain, the national recognition of Pepe Juan Barra, Barra Pomelo, and La Macetúa is an excellent excuse to explore Murcia’s dynamic dining culture firsthand. These three standout eateries have not only made their local owners and patrons proud by being shortlisted for such a prestigious award, but also represent a thriving regional dining scene that is increasingly capturing national attention and praise.

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