TORREVIEJA The name of the town originated in the early 18th century, when it was a fishing village built around an old tower. Torrevieja means “old tower” in Spanish. The main attractions of the town are sun, sea and salt. The town has two natural salt lakes known as the “Salinas de Torrevieja”. They are considered to be the largest salt reserves in Europe and the second largest in the world after the Dead Sea in Israel. The Salinas are formed by water entering the lagoons from the sea. There is an estimated 800,000 tons of salt in the lagoons. Part of this production is exported to the United States, Northern Europe, Canada and even the west coast of Africa. There is a protected nature area around the lakes, called "El Parque de las lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja", where important species of wild bird such as the flamingo can be found Due to these salt lakes and the surrounding mountains, the area has developed its own microclimate and this is said, by the World Health Organisation, to be one of the healthiest in the world. This climate is good for sufferers of arthritis, rheumatism and asthma. Certainly 320 days of sunshine, an average yearly temperature of 20 deg C and very low annual rainfall, isn't going to do you any harm!    The beaches at Torrevieja, La Mata and La Zenia are all blue flag beaches and have excellent amenities. Diving, windsurfing and rowing is on offer. Away from the water, there is a aeronautical club, international quality sports halls, tennis courts, and saunas. In the Villamartin area there are 3 international class golf courses.

One of Torrevieja’a most important events is the festival of “Habaneras y Polifonia” which is celebrated every year, normally during July. During this festival, some of the best voices in the world can be heard interpreting “Habaneras”. These are Cuban songs that have reached these shores via the fishermen and the salt trade. Torrevieja also boasts the “Palacio de la Mùsica” which hosts many different musical events and also accommodates a school of music. There are various holidays or fiestas throughout the year. In January, the parade of the Three Kings (Three Wise Men) travels the streets of Torrevieja giving sweets to the children. In February, the yearly carnival attracts many people in fancy dress onto the streets. During Easter week (“Semana Santa”), there are many religious processions which tour the streets of the town. In May, the pure Andalucian style of the “Ferias de Mayo” can be enjoyed. People sample the vino fino, dance sevillanas, etc. In July, the festival of “la Virgen del Carmen” patron saint of fishermen takes place, during which, various acts of commemoration are carried-out. The 8th of December is the feast day of “La Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria” (the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady), Patron Saint of Torrevieja, and during that entire week there are many events organised in the town. In addition to these festivals, there are a number of bank holidays during the year. The gastronomy of the area is strongly linked to the sea. Most dishes are based on different types of fish. The typical and traditional dish is “El Caldero” which is prepared with various fish and rice. Other tastes are also catered for by the wide variety of international restaurants, such as Chinese, Italian, English, French, Belgium, Arab, German, etc.

The town of Torrevieja is a bustling seaside resort with an attractive seafront promenade. Among the interesting places to visit is the Casino, an early twentieth century building broadly Art Noveau in style. It is notable for its elegant ballroom and wonderful Mozarabic style lounge. The town church is a neoclassical nineteenth century construction which houses the image of the town's revered patron saint, the Immaculate Virgin.