Long sandy beaches, atmospheric port towns and a rich cultural heritage, Murcia in the south east of Spain offers plenty of variety for relaxation in the Mediterranean sunshine.

La Manga is a well-designed coastal recreation area. Set between the sea and a salt-water lake, La Manga offers excellent sailing facilities, water sports and entertainment.

Along the coast, the port town of Aguilas has a charming old quarter. Take a walk down to the pretty harbour, which is filled with yachts and overlooked by the crumbling walls of a 16th century fortification. The nearby coastline is dramatically set with rugged coves that guard tiny, half-hidden sandy beaches. For a taste of locally caught seafood try arroz marinero, a delicate dish of rice and shellfish.

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Spagetti westerns were filmed in Murcia. At Mini Hollywood in Almeria, you can visit the set of the Magnificent Seven, complete with resident feuding cowboys. Afterwards you can enjoy a lively show or take the kids to meet the animals at the zoo.

Outdoor activities in Murcia range from relaxing mornings on one of the many golf courses to thrilling activities such as canyoning and rafting. The natural park of Calnegre is a popular place for hiking and many activity centres offer paintballing and quad biking. For more sedate enjoyment, take a tour around one of the many vineyards and sample the best of the year’s wine.

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In September, two opposing armies come together for one of Murcia’s most colourful fiestas. The Fiesta of the Moors and the Christians sees a lavishly costumed parade of ‘Moors’ and ‘Christians’ accompanied by a rousing brass band. The fiesta ends with a majestic show of traditional bullfighting.

Self-catering holiday cottages and apartments to rent in Murcia: