Mojacar Tourist Information
Spilling down the foothills of the Sierra Cabrera on the South East coast of
Spain is the beautiful resort of Mojacar. Split into two distinct areas
approximately two kilometres apart are the village (pueblo) and the beach
(playa). The combination of both makes Mojacar undoubtedly the most cosmopolitan
area in the region.
Mojacar Playa
The Mojacar beach front is some 5km long ranging from fine white sand to the
coarser variety. It has a good mix of both busy spots and secluded coves which
extend into the distance reaching as far as the edge of the Cabo de Gata
National Park. The busier beach areas have been considerably developed to serve
the many visitors who return year after year, and are scattered with hotels,
apartments, restaurants, cafes, bars, and supermarkets providing accommodation
and refreshents for all. A defensive fortress from the 18th century known as the
Macenas Tower acts as the gateway separating the main beach area from the
beaches reserved for naturalism. Leisure activities such as scuba diving and
snorkeling, and for those who enjoy an adrenalin boost, the thrills of ultralite
flybys, jet-skis and parachuting are all available on Mojacar beach. Most
visitors are on package holidays but if you're just passing through check out
the Mojacar Parador hotel.
Mojacar Pueblo
Mojacar Pueblo is an elevated mountain village, Arabic in appearance with
quaint streets and terraces. A magnificent view of the coastline can be seen
from the highest point in the village, the Mirador Castillo, but by far the best
way to see the village itself and its medieval architecture is to abandon the
car and take to your feet. In the main square, in front of the church of Santa
Maria is the statue of the Mojaquera, a lady wearing typical head-covering dress
and carrying a water container. Going down another level, takes us past the old
cemetery which leads into the street which originally provided a binary wall,
protecting the upper part of the village. In this area there is a good selection
of shops, bars and street cafes where you can relax and watch the world go by.
Accommodation within the village consists of small hotels, apartments,
converted farmhouses and basic studios, most of which are available year round
for long or short term occupation. The bustling village market takes place every
Wednesday where local produce can be sampled and purchased. Within the same area
is the Town Hall, famous for its magnificent old tree brought over from the
Americas and from here it is a pleasant walk to the Puerta de la Almedina, an
archway to the village displaying the coat of arms of Mojacar. Close by is the
maze of tiny streets of the Jewish Quarter.
The symbol of Mojacar, thought to be 4500 years old, is an Indalo man holding
an arc in outstretched arms. It is said to bring good luck and protection and is
painted on many buildings in the village. Once you have reached the lower level
of the village, no need for despair at the thought of getting back up to the top
as there is a local bus to take you there.
The nightlife starts with the most fabulous sunsets covering the village with a
pink glow. The candlelit restaurants with background music of Arabic origin
mixed with international strains sets the mood to try the many gastronomical
delights, several of which come from the sea, but also include stews, savouries
and soups, all prepared in true Moorish style. Street squares full of charm host
the many open air concerts, shows and exhibitions attracting all age groups and
nationalities.
When dawn finally breaks, Mojacar's extraordinary beauty and vitality is once
again apparent. |
