A Nautical Adventure on Spain's Mar Menor: From La Manga Club to Culinary Delights

As the sun rises over the Mediterranean, casting a golden glow across the pristine fairways of La Manga Club, one can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the day ahead. This world-renowned resort, tucked away on Spain's Costa Cálida, is not just a haven for golf enthusiasts and tennis aficionados; it's a gateway to a plethora of adventures that await just beyond its manicured borders.

On this particular morning, our group of eight intrepid explorers, plus one four-legged companion, set out to discover the hidden gems of the Mar Menor, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon. Our destination: the highly acclaimed 1975 Escuela de Pieter, perched at the northern tip of this aquatic playground.

Preparation is key for such excursions, especially during the bustling summer months. Weeks in advance, we had secured our reservation at the restaurant, a process made easy by their online booking system. Equally important was arranging our maritime transport, which we did through Happy Boat in Islas Menores, a mere ten-minute taxi ride from La Manga Club.

As we arrived at the marina, the excitement was palpable. The staff at Happy Boat efficiently guided us through the necessary paperwork, and soon we were boarding our vessel for the day. With one of our party proudly brandishing a powerboat licence, we were cleared for departure. It's worth noting that for those without such credentials, Happy Boat offers a range of vessels that don't require a licence, ensuring that the Mar Menor's aquatic delights are accessible to all.

With our cool box brimming with refreshments and the midday sun glinting off the calm waters, we throttled out of the marina, the wind whipping through our hair as we set course for our first stop: Isla Perdiguera. This uninhabited islet, rising from the tranquil waters of the Mar Menor, provided the perfect backdrop for our inaugural dip. The crystal-clear waters, warmed by the Spanish sun, were a welcome respite from the heat of the day.

Invigorated by our swim, we charted a course northward, the boat skimming across the lagoon's surface. Our next port of call was a secluded spot opposite the old San Javier airport, a relic of a bygone era before commercial flights were redirected to the more modern RMU airport. Here, with the echoes of past travellers lingering in the air, we anchored for another refreshing plunge into the Mar Menor's embrace.

As the hands of our watches crept towards lunchtime, we set our sights on the day's main event: 1975 Escuela de Pieter. Approaching from the water, the restaurant's terrace beckoned, a vision of Mediterranean elegance against the backdrop of swaying palm trees. We moored our boat on the adjacent beach, the soft sand crunching beneath our feet as we made our way to our culinary destination.

The welcome we received was as warm as the Murcian sun. Escorted to our table on the terraza, we were treated to panoramic views of the Mar Menor, its waters shimmering like a blanket of diamonds under the afternoon light. The menu, a testament to the region's gastronomic prowess, presented a delightful quandary: how to choose from such a tempting array?

Half of our party succumbed to the allure of paella, that quintessential Spanish dish, its aroma wafting tantalisingly from the kitchen. Others opted for the day's fresh catch, while the remainder explored the diverse offerings from the grill. What followed was a symphony of flavours, each dish a celebration of local ingredients and culinary artistry.

Our long, lazy lunch unfolded at a leisurely pace, as is the custom in this part of the world. Starters gave way to mains, punctuated by animated conversation and peals of laughter. As the afternoon wore on, we indulged in decadent desserts, accompanied by expertly mixed cocktails and bottles of crisp rosé wine, the perfect complement to the balmy Mediterranean climate.

With the sun beginning its slow descent towards the horizon, we reluctantly bid farewell to 1975 Escuela de Pieter, our spirits high and our appetites more than satisfied. But the day's adventures were not yet complete. Setting off once more, we pointed our bow towards La Mestiza, a lively beach bar that has become something of an institution on the Mar Menor.

Here, with our toes in the sand and the last rays of sunlight painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we savoured a final cocktail. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to toast to the day's memories before making our way back to Happy Boat as twilight settled over the lagoon.

As we disembarked at Islas Menores, the consensus was unanimous: it had been an outstanding day. From the thrill of speeding across open water to the gastronomic delights at 1975 Escuela de Pieter, and the simple joy of swimming in the Mar Menor's inviting waters, every moment had been a treasure. Even our canine companion, tail wagging with enthusiasm, seemed to agree.

This nautical adventure served as a poignant reminder of the diverse experiences that await those who venture beyond the confines of La Manga Club. While the resort itself offers a wealth of activities, it is in exploring the surrounding area that one truly discovers the heart and soul of this enchanting corner of Spain.

For those contemplating a visit to La Manga Club, consider this an invitation to look beyond the fairways and tennis courts. The Mar Menor, with islands, charming restaurants, and crystal-clear waters, offers a world of adventure just waiting to be explored. And who knows? You might just find yourself, as we did, raising a glass on the terrace of 1975 Escuela de Pieter, marvelling at the beauty of the Mar Menor and wondering why you hadn't discovered this nautical paradise sooner.