Polaris World Property

 

As you get older there is a very real sensation of time flying. Some days pass us by leaving us to wonder what day of the week it is. Days become weeks, weeks become months. Months become years. One minute you’re singing Auld Langs Aign to bring in the New Year and a few Happy Birthdays later someone’s standing on your doorstep singing Silent night. But some days are simply unforgettable, grabbing you by the throat and shaking you to your core. An encounter with two large pods of Dolphins and one large group of Pilot Whales here just off the coast in La Azohia, Murcia, Spain was one of those days.

We set off early morning on the 2^nd of July from the small coastal port of Puerto de Mazarron on Spains south east hoping to encounter Dolphins but also with the hope that we might, just might, get lucky enough to get up close and personal to Whales. Bleary eyed through lack of sleep and lack of coffee we set off in search of marine life. To be honest I wasn’t that optimistic of seeing whales as I knew that Pilot whales in particular spend most of their time in deep water.

Forty five minutes later having taking a southern course towards Africa we spotted a large pod of Dolphins in the distance. Making sure to give them a with berth our Captain “Paco” reduced the throttle and to our delight up to 20 bottle nose dolphins joined us at our bow and began hitching a lift as we cut through the early morning waves. Our drowsiness was obliterated as we watched in amazement as these beautiful creatures took turns to criss cross and zig zag in front us us. Their propensity for playfulness is a joy to behold and you are always left a gasp at their speed and agility.

Heading south west we curved in an arc towards the large port of Cartagena. Here we once more encountered another large pod of Dolphins who took great delight at leaping out of the water and spinning on our bows stream clicking and squeaking as their bodies broke the glistening surface. Isn’t it any wonder that these beautiful creatures are used to stimulate communication among those to whom communication is an eternal struggle? As my Mother says “They’d do your heart good”.

So as we reached the highest point of our arc we changed direction and began to head back towards the barely visible land. Within 10 minutes off in the distance small fins could be seen breaking the waters surface. To our delight one fin became two became three as fine volcanoes of mist rose above them. The marine biologist who accompanied us couldn’t contain her delight as the size of the group ahead of us became apparent. There before us was a large family of Pilot Whales. There is something about an encounter with whales or dolphins that leaves you breathless. There is something in the way that they look at you, looking deep into your eyes as if they were the windows to your soul.

Cutting the engine, the only sound the gentle swash of the water lapping against our boat, our Captain informed us that we would keep a safe distance from the group and leave it to them to make the first move. And so one by one the larger members began to approach. Our smiles became huge grins as up to five Pilot Whales surfaced just below us. Clicking among one another the younger members of the clan approached in a less cautious manner and began to play amongst the adults. And there they stayed for upwards of 20 minutes spy hoping and rolling beneath us. It truly was a magical experience.

Having swam with Dolphins just off the coast of Kaikoura in New Zealand and been lucky enough to see Killer Whales off San Juan Island near Seattle on Americas North West Coast this wasn’t a first for me. Yet to know that these beautiful creatures are just kilometres off the coast here in La Azohia, Murcia is somewhat comforting. To those of you looking to relive adventures experienced on your year out in Australia or New Zealand look no further than Murcia Spain. The province boasts over 300 days of annual sunshine, a stunningly beautiful coastline and has its very own National Park in the Sierra Espuña just ten minutes from Polaris Worlds Condado de Alhama Resort. If you’re tired of the grey unyielding nine to six Monday to Friday lifestyle and you would like to go Whale Watching in Murcia why not take a break and come see the place for yourself. After all the Spanish philosophy is that “Life is for Living”. Isn’t it time you started?

 

 

Interesting Facts about Pilot Whales.

1. They are sometimes referred to as the cheetahs of the ocean.
2. Eat up to 30 pounds of squid a day.
3. Have 40 to 48 teeth.
4. Are jet black or a very dark grey colour.
5. Males measure up to 6.1 metres and weigh in at up to 3 tons.
6. Females measure up to 4.9 metres and can weigh up to 1.5 tons.
7. Newborn whale’s dorsal fin is flexible at birth so as to facilitate the birthing process.
8. Their life span is approximately 45 years for males and 60 years for females.
9. Have a distinct rounded head with a very slight beak and an up-curved mouth line.
10. There are likely to be almost a million long-finned pilot whales and at least 200,000 short-finned pilot whales worldwide.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part III

The complete journey through Spain took us from the North Eastern coastal town of Roses (which seemed to be the retirement home of the entire cast of cocoon) to Calle de Parfrugal. From there we moved along the coast moving inland when ever we thought there might be a place worth visiting. Places like Prades in the hills near Barcelona where time seems to have stood still. Or Barcelona itself. A vibrant beating pulse of a City where all colours, creeds and nationalities meet. The place is steeped in history and yet offers its visitors an eclectic mix of both old and modern architecture. But if it’s a modern, vibrant, classy and fresh you’re looking for then don’t miss out on Valencia. Its outskirts could be anywhere Spain but the centre of the City is stunningly beautiful and well worth a visit. Then there was Denia on the coast below Valencia, which is still Spanishy (if that’s a word?) and where we would have lived had we not found Murcia and lots more besides, but you’ll have to discover those places for yourselves.

Because we had ruled out living in the major cities we continued our search for somewhere that still felt like Spain and wasn’t merely a high rise tourist town. The reality was though that we were beginning to loose hope and had begun to wonder if we’d ever find that place that we could call home. The strange thing was though that the words of our Limerick friend kept coming back to me “Don’t stop until you’ve seen Murcia”. So as the terrain changed from relatively flat to mountainous we left the province of Valencia and crossed into the relatively unknown and untouched Murcia.

What swung it for me was staying on a campsite in the Sierra Espuna National Park. I was simply blown away by its beauty and the knowledge that this could be on our doorstep made deciding to live here that much easier. From there we discovered the small coastal towns of Isla Plana, La Azohia and Bolnuevo where the beaches vary from long and sandy to small and private. Some are and are lined with palm trees, others backed by sand dunes or enclosed by rocky coves. The view along the coast is that of small low rise towns and field upon field of tomatoes. The province is a mixture of Mountainous with a scattering of fertile plains where the Moorish farming influence is still evident. Its two major cities, Murcia (Inland) and Cartagena (Coastal), are steeped in history and are well worth a visit, Then there’s the weather. With average yearly temperatures of 20oC and over 300 days of sunshine making Murcia an extremely pleasant place to live.

So as I write from magical Murcia, the late afternoon sun beginning to lower and cool the surrounding mountainside, I leave you with a taste of what could be yours. Tomorrow, if you get a chance, pop into your local supermarket and buy some nearly ripe fat and juicy tomatoes (which have more than likely been grown here) and buy yourself a good bottle of red from Murcia’s very own Jumillia region. Now when you get home chop those nearly ripe fat juicy tomatoes into chunks and sprinkle with good olive oil, black pepper and salt. Open your bottle of Jumillian wine and pour yourself a generous glass of claret. Now pop a chunk of the juicy tomatoes into your mouth and wash down with the ruby red. Now close your eyes and imagine sitting out on your balcony or terrace on a warm Murcian night, listening to the crickets song, watching as the sun sets beneath a blood red sky with the promise of more to come tomorrow. You see, this too can be yours, but first you have to make that decision.

 

Sometimes I wonder if Polaris World knows just how lucky they are. Whilst they spend vast amounts on advertising about the Polaris Resorts, Polaris Golf, Polaris Qualities, The Polaris Garden Centre, The Polaris Furniture Store, Polaris Travel, Polaris Car Hire, Fill your tank at the Polaris Petrol Station, Polaris, Polaris, Polaris. Alright already, we get the picture. Polaris World provides every possible service for its resident’s convenience. But what about the area?

Well over the coming months we will be sharing with you our knowledge of the huge variety of activities you can do here in Murcia, the very best local restaurants in which to eat, the best areas in which to shop and lots, lots more. Information that only a locally based Polaris World agent can provide, an agent such as Murcia Developments.

As it’s the first official day of summer today we’ll start with just a few of the very best local beaches which are no more than thirty minutes from the doorstep of your Condado de Alhama home. With sea temperatures in the crystal clear Mediterranean averaging between 22ºC to 25ºC from July to September it’s the perfect place for snorkeling, scuba diving or simply tipping your head back, floating with arms and legs outstretched, without a care in the world.

So with that in mind here are just a few of our favourite beaches near Condado de Alhama that we regularly visit:

1) The beach closest to Condado de Alhama is Bolnuevo beach, which can be reached within 10 minutes by car. It is a lovely, long, wide and sandy beach with crystal clear calm water, which is perfect for families. It has several bars and restaurants and a big area for all kinds of sports (football, beach volleyball, etc.). In summer it is also a great place for festivals and gatherings (i.e. the motor weekend).

Opposite the beach at the end of town is a huge parking area, overlooked by some wonderful eroded rock formations. If a nudist beach is more your thing than keep driving on the main road till the road goes uphill, follow the road all the way to the top and down till it becomes a dirt road. Off this road are stunning small coves with lovely beaches (nudist and mixed). There are however no facilities so bring your own refreshments. This area is also great for hiking.

2) Within 10-15 minutes drive you will find the beaches of Puerto de Mazarron. Some beaches are vast (Playa Grande) while others (Bahia beach) are smaller, lined with palm trees and authentic fisherman’s cottages. The beach in the centre of town opposite the paseo (boulevard) has a play area and there are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to keep you entertained. The first 50 meters into the water is very shallow, therefore a bit warmer and great for the younger kids. From the harbours and beaches of Puerto de Mazarron you can enjoy many water sports such as sailing, fishing, diving, jet skiing, etc.

3) The prettiest beach near Condado de Alhama is Percheles beach within 20 minutes drive. A stunning beach lined with palm trees and enclosed by sand dunes and green hills. It is a little off the beaten track so still relatively quiet in summer. There are plenty of parking spaces right at the beach (they have recently separated the beach from the parking area), but again no facilities so bring your own food & refreshments. There are a few little coves with lovely beaches off the bigger beach, which can be accessed on foot. These smaller private beaches are also popular amongst nudists.

4) Our favourite beach though is Playa de las Mujeres near Calnegre within a 25 minutes drive from Condado. Again off the beaten track but well worth a visit. A dirt track leads along the coast and there are several stunning beaches just off it. The first beach you encounter is very popular with the Spanish and is enclosed by sand dunes and rocks and has a small Spanish family run restaurant (beach hut).

Here you can order your paella when you arrive in the morning (make sure to be there between 10 and 11 am) and the staff will give you a time to return for your lunch. You than set up camp on the beach (bring a shade as this beach gets quite hot in summer) and when it is lunch time you leave your towels etc. walk 20 meters to the restaurant and enjoy your lunch overlooking the glimmering Mediterranean. The beach has a lifeguard, toilets and water. The sea can be quite rough at times and is great for wave riding or body boarding.

We can of course provide you with a detailed description on how to get to all the above-mentioned beaches but first you’ve got to get here. So what are you waiting for?

Murcia City. 

Murcia Cathedral Museum    Pza. de la Cruz, s/n. - TLF: 968 216 344

Salzillo Museum     Pza. San Agustin, 3. - TLF: 968 291 893

Cartagena.  

Cartagena Archaeological Museum   Ramon y Cajal 45 - TLF: 968 539 027

Cartagena Naval Museum     Menendez Pelayo 8 - TLF: 968 127 138

Sea Archaeology Museum - National Submarine Research Center. Dique Navidad, s/n - TLF: 968 121 166

Murcia Photography Records Centre. CEHIFORM. Palicio Aguirre, Pza. de la Merced, 16. Cartagena

La Union  

Mine Museum     Pza. Liceo, Edif. del Liceo de Oberros - TLF: 968 541 463

Minesongs Festival Museum   Noria, s/n. - TLF: 968 541 614

Portman Archaeological Museum   La Union - TLF 968 548 144

Los Alcazares  Aeronautics Museum  Avda de la Libertad, 37 - TLF: 968 582 107

San Javier  

San Javier Crib Museum  Ctra. Cartagena, s/n - TLF: 968 192 526
 
San Javiers Local History Museum  Ctra. a Cartagena, s/n - TLF 968 192 526

San Pedro Del Pinatar

Sea Collection Museum Casa de la Cultura - TLF: 968 181 920 - Ingeniero Lorenzo Morales, 2 - 2a derecha.

Pilar de la Horadada Gratiniano Baches Archaeological Museum Casa de la Cultura

Torrevieieja Sea and Salt Museum  Patricio Perez, 10. TLF: 966 706 838

Puerto de Mazarron Salted Fish Roman Factory La Torre, Edificio Insignia - TLF: 968 595 242

Aguilas.

Aguilas Railway Musuem    Aguilas Railway Station - TLF: 667 501 488

Aguilas Archaeological Museum   Condo de Aranda, 5 - Aguilas - TLF: 968 493 287

Lorca The Fortress of the Sun: Castle of Lorca. Visitors Centre: Old Convent of La Merced. Palace of Guevara: Calle Lope Gisbert

Embroideries Museum Paso Azul:    C/ Nogalte, 7.

Embroideries Museum Paso Blanco:   Complejo Monumental de Santo Domingo.

Embroideries Museum Paso Encarnado:  C/ Eulogio Periago, 2.

Embroideries Museum Paso Morado:   C/ Nogalte, 43. TLF: 902 400 047

Jumilla Wine tasting in wine cellars on the last Monday of every month, from 19.00 to 21.00. Call the Tourist Office on 968 357 006 (Mon-Fri 10.30-14.00, 17.00-19.00 - Sat-Sun 10.30-14.00 
 

 

 

Monday

San Pedro del Pinitar 

Tuesday

Pilar de la Horadada (Mil Palmeras)

Los Alcazares

Los Belones

La Union. 

Wednesday

La Mata

Santiago de la Ribera

Cartagena

Mojacar 

Thursday

San Javier

Los Urrutias

La Aljorra

La Palma

Carboneras 

Friday

Torrvieja

Pilar de la Horadada

El Algar

Isla Plana

Isla Menores

Garrucha 

Saturday

Los Narejos (Summer only)

Torrepacheco

Mazarron

Aguilas

Vera 
 
 Sunday

San Javier (Autocine)

Los Nietos

Cabo de Palos

Puerto de Mazarron

San Juan de Los Terreros (July, August & September only)

Mojacar (Vintage Flea Market) near the Handycraft Center.

Villaricos

Airports

Alicante    966 919 100

San Javier    968 172 000

Almeria    950 213 700

Bus Stations

Alicante    965 130 700

Torrevieja    966 701 068

Vera     950 139 916

Cartagena    968 505 656

Cieza     968 761 946

Jumilla    968 756 242

Lorca     968 441 107

San Pedro Pinatar   968 182 942

Mazarron    968 153 480

Aguilas    968 292 211 / 968 291 911

Taxis

Aguilas    968 411 470

Cartagena    968 311 515

Lorca     968 471 110

Los Alcazares   968 574 105

Mazarron    968 595 122

La Manga    968 145 000

San Javier    968 573 300

San Pedro Pinatar   968 186 996

Railway Stations

Alicante    965 923 850

Orihuela    965 300 284

Almeria    950 251 135

Murcia    968 252 154

Cartagena    968 502 214

Lorca     968 466 998

Balsicas (Mar Menor)  968 580 052

Aguilas    968 411 068

Emergency

Emergency    112

Ambulance    112

Fire Brigade    112

Police     091

Local Police    092

Guardia Civil   062

Red Cross    913 354 545

Toxicology    915 620 420

Local Police

Alhama de Murcia   968 630 001

Cabo de Palos   968 145 577

Cartagena    968 151 151 / 968 128 877

El Algar    968 135 695

Fuente Alamo   968 598 500

La Manga    968 141 502

Los Alcazares   968 574 044

Mazarron    968 591 775

Puerto de Mazarron  968 591 775 

San Javier    968 570 880

San Pedro del Pinitar  968 183 739

Torre Pacheco   968 585 151

Totana    968 423 111

Guardia Civil 

Alama de Murcia   968 630 005

Cabo de Palos   968 563 114

Cartagena    968 501 117

Fuente Alamo   968 597 035

La Manga    968 563 222/114

Mazarron    968 590 005

Murcia    968 235 581

Puerto de Mazarron  968 594 103

San Javier    968 570 306

San Pedro del Pinitar  968 180 610

Torre Pacheco   968 578 019

Totana    968 420 053

Road Assistance

ADA     902 232 423

Europe Assistance   902 158 585

RACE    902 300 505

Emergency from Abroad  913 791 625

Hospitals

Murcia Hospitals:

Hospital General Universitario 968 360 900

Hospital Ibermutuamur  968 394 000

Hospital Universitario V.D.I. 968 369 500

Cartagena Hospitals:    

Perpetuo Socorro Alameda 968 360 900

Maria de Rosell   968 325 000

Hospital Naval   968 127 226

Nuestra Senora de Perpetuo 968 510 500

Orihuela    966 776 166

Lorca:

Hospital Rafael Mendez  968 445 547/500

Medical Centres

Alhama de Murcia   968 631 700

Cabo de Palos   968 145 151

Cavanna    968 564 912

Cartagena    968 502 080

Cartagena Emergency  968 502 803

El Algar    968 135 510

El Paraton    968 432 101

Fuente Alamo   968 598 080 

La Manga (1)   968 142 125

La Manga (2)   968 145 151

Los Alcazares   968 575 800

Mazarron    968 592 151

Puerto de Mazarron  968 595 342

San Javier    968 190 495

San Javier Emergency  968 190 002

San Pedro del Pinitar  968 181 710

Torre Pacheco   968 579 308

Torrevieja (1)   966 703 011

Torrevieja (2)   966 702 053

Orihuela (1)    965 304 343

Orihuela (2)    966 736 972

Credit Cards

4B (Visa, Mastercard)  902 114 400 / 913 622 200

American Express   902 375 637 / 915 720 303

Caja Madrid    915 193 800

Cajamurcia    902 240 712

Diners Club    902 401 112 / 901 101 011

El Corte Ingles   901 122 122

Red 6000    915 965 335

Servired (Visa, Mastercard) 902 192 100

Visa Espana    915 192 100

Bank of Ireland (Visa)  +353 56 775 7007

Barclays    +44 1604 230 230

Lloyds    +44 1702 278 280

Nat West    +44 1423 700 545

Halifax    +44 8457 203 099

Abbey    +44 1908 237 963 

Phone Companies

Telefonica    1004

Moviestar    1485

Vodafone    1444

Townhalls (Ayuntamiento)

Aledo     968 484 422

Alhama de Murcia   968 630 000

Bullas     968 652 031

Caravaca de la Cruz  968 702 000

Cehegin    968 740 400

Fuente Alamo   968 597 201

La Union    968 540 804

Lorca     968 479 700

Los Alcazares   968 575 047

Mazarron    968 333 007

Mula     968 637 510

Murcia    968 358 600

Puerto Lumbreras   968 402 013

Totana    968 420 003

Embassy’s

Irish     912 763 500

The Netherlands   914 199 100

British    914 190 200

German    914 199 100

Consulates

Ireland (Alicante)   965 107 485

Ireland (Fuengirola)   952 475 108   

The Netherlands (Alicante) 965 212 175

The Netherlands (Malaga) 952 600 260

British (Alicante)   965 216 022

British (Malaga)   952 352 300

British (Benidorm)   965 850 123

Belgium    952 399 907

Canada    952 223 346

Denmark    952 448 450

France    952 226 590

Norway    952 210 331

Germany    952 227 866

Sweden    952 467 195

Austria    952 600 267

Switzerland    952 217 266

USA     952 474 891