Winter Weather at La Manga Club
Seeking winter sun La Manga Club provides is a decision many regular visitors to the Murcia region make every year. While northern Europe remains locked in grey skies and persistent rain the south eastern coast of Spain offers a completely different experience. The local microclimate is protected by the surrounding Murcian hills and the warm influence of the Mar Menor which is a large salt water lagoon. This geographic positioning ensures that the resort enjoys over three hundred days of sunshine annually. During the winter months from November through to February daytime temperatures frequently reach between fifteen and twenty degrees Celsius. This is often warm enough for light clothing and lunches outside on a terrace while people back in the United Kingdom are wearing heavy coats.
The air quality in this part of Spain is exceptionally high. Without the humidity of the summer months the atmosphere is crisp and clear providing visibility that extends right across the Mediterranean sea. Morning frost is almost unheard of here and even when the sun goes down in the late afternoon the temperature remains mild enough for a pleasant evening walk. For those who find the intense heat of July and August overbearing the winter sun La Manga Club offers is much more comfortable for physical activity. You can go for a hike through the Calblanque Regional Park or cycle along the coast without the risk of overheating. The lack of clouds means that the sunsets are often spectacular with deep oranges and pinks filling the sky over the distant mountains.
It is worth considering the practical benefits of this climate for property owners and holidaymakers alike. Villas remain dry and bright and the natural light helps to maintain a positive mood throughout the season. Many homes on the resort have large windows and terraces that make the most of the winter light. If you choose to stay in one of our villas during this time you will find that the outdoor spaces are just as usable as they are in the summer. You can enjoy your morning coffee in the sun or host a barbecue in the afternoon. The consistency of the weather allows for reliable planning of outdoor events and excursions which is rarely possible in colder climates during the winter season.
Winter Golf: Uncrowded Courses
One of the primary reasons people seek out the winter sun at La Manga Club is the golf: three 18 hole courses on one resort. The resort features three distinct eighteen hole courses which remain in excellent condition throughout the entire year. During the winter period the pressure on tee times is significantly reduced compared to the peak spring and autumn windows. This allows for a more relaxed pace of play where you do not feel rushed by groups behind you. The South Course is often the most popular choice having hosted numerous professional tournaments over the decades. It is a long course that requires strategic play but in the cooler winter air it becomes a much more manageable walk for those who prefer not to use a buggy.
The North Course offers a different challenge with more undulation and greens that require a delicate touch. Because the grass does not enter a dormant state in this part of Spain the fairways remain lush and green even in January. Golfers often find that the ball carries well in the dry winter air and the lack of strong winds in the mornings creates perfect scoring conditions. For those who enjoy a more scenic round the West Course is located further into the hills and has views of the surrounding countryside and the sea. This course is known for its tight fairways and elevation changes which provide a rigorous test of accuracy. You can find more details about these facilities on our golf page which covers everything from green fees to academy lessons.
Instruction at the Golf Academy also continues through the winter months. Many players use this time to work on their swing or improve their short game with the resident professionals. The practice range and putting greens are rarely crowded meaning you can spend as much time as you need refining your technique. Because the resort attracts fewer tourists in the winter you will often find that you are sharing the facilities with local residents and serious golfers who appreciate the high quality of the turf. The clubhouse atmosphere is also more intimate during this time providing a great place to socialise and discuss your round over a drink in the afternoon sun. The drainage on all three courses is superb so even if there is a rare rain shower the ground dries incredibly quickly allowing play to resume almost immediately.
If golf is the main reason for your trip, see golf holidays at La Manga Club.
Spa and Wellness in the Cooler Months
While the outdoor pools might be a little fresh for some in the middle of winter the wellness facilities at the resort offer a perfect sanctuary. The main spa complex includes a large indoor pool that is maintained at an ideal temperature for swimming laps or simply relaxing. There are also thermal suites with saunas and steam rooms which are particularly inviting after a morning spent on the golf course or hiking the local trails. Taking time for self care is a major part of the holiday experience and the winter months provide the quiet environment needed for true relaxation. You can book a wide range of treatments including massages and facials that use high quality Mediterranean ingredients.
The fitness centre is fully equipped with modern machinery and offers various classes throughout the week. For many visitors the winter sun La Manga Club offers is the motivation they need to start a new fitness regime. Working out in a bright and airy environment is much more enjoyable than a dark gym in a northern city. There are also professional physio services available for those who need assistance with sports injuries or chronic pain. The calm atmosphere of the spa during the off peak season means that you can often book your preferred time slots at short notice. For more on the spa, including the hydrotherapy circuit and the day packages sold to visitors, see our guide to the spa at La Manga Club.
The peaceful nature of the resort in winter allows for a level of relaxation that is hard to find during the busy summer months. It is the ideal time to focus on your physical and mental health.
Beyond the formal spa facilities the entire resort environment contributes to a sense of well being. The clean air and the scent of pine trees and rosemary from the hills create a natural aromatherapy experience. Walking through the manicured gardens or along the quiet roads of the community is a simple pleasure that helps to reduce stress. Many people find that a two week stay during the winter is enough to completely rejuvenate their energy levels. The combination of vitamin D from the sun and the high standard of wellness services makes this a leading choice for a health focused break.
Local Markets and Festive Events
The culture of the Murcia region remains vibrant throughout the winter and exploring the local area provides a fascinating insight into Spanish life. Every Sunday the nearby village of Cabo de Palos hosts a large open air market. This is a great place to buy fresh local produce including citrus fruits which are at their best during the winter months. You can also find high quality leather goods and traditional ceramics at very reasonable prices. After visiting the market it is a local tradition to enjoy a plate of Caldero which is a rich fish and rice dish specific to this coastal area at one of the restaurants overlooking the marina.
The city of Cartagena is only a short drive away and is an essential visit for anyone interested in history. You can learn more about this ancient port on our areas Cartagena page. During the Christmas period the city is beautifully decorated with thousands of lights and features a large nativity scene in the town hall square. On the evening of the fifth of January the Three Kings parade takes place where large floats travel through the streets and sweets are thrown to the crowds. This is a major event in the Spanish calendar and is much more significant than Christmas Day for many local families. The atmosphere is joyful and inclusive with people of all ages celebrating together in the mild evening air.
In the village of Los Belones which is located just outside the resort gates you will find a range of traditional tapas bars and restaurants that stay open all year round. The local community is very active during the winter and you can often find live music or small festivals taking place in the plaza. These events are not staged for tourists but are genuine expressions of local culture. Sampling the local wines from the Jumilla or Bullas regions is a great way to spend an evening. These wines are gaining international recognition for their quality and the robust flavours of the Monastrell grape are perfect for the slightly cooler winter nights. The local people are welcoming and appreciate it when visitors take an interest in their traditions and language.
Prices and Availability in Winter
Guide prices vary by season, so ask us for winter prices for your dates. Outside the school holidays you may also find more choice of homes, so it is worth enquiring early. If you would like a view over the golf course or a home close to the Racquets Club, tell us and we will suggest what is free. Our guide to booking direct explains how it works.
The benefits of booking during this time extend beyond just the accommodation costs. Car hire companies often have surplus vehicles in the winter leading to lower daily rates. Many restaurants also offer set menus or special promotions during the quieter months which allows you to eat out more frequently without exceeding your budget. Flight prices to the nearby airports of Murcia International and Alicante are also much cheaper provided you book in advance. This makes the winter sun La Manga Club provides accessible for those who might be looking for a more affordable escape from the cold.
Long stay discounts are often available for those who wish to spend a month or more at the resort. This is a popular choice for retirees or people who can work remotely. The high speed internet available in most villas ensures that you can stay connected with your business while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle. Having the time to properly settle into the community allows you to experience the resort like a local. You will get to know the staff in the shops and the regulars in the bars creating a sense of belonging that is hard to achieve on a short holiday. The financial savings combined with the high quality of life make a long winter stay an attractive proposition for many.
For a winter stay, our Los Olivos apartments have heating and a shared heated indoor pool.
FAQs
Is everything open at La Manga Club in the winter?
While the resort is quieter than in the summer the majority of facilities remain open. The golf courses and the Racquets Club are open throughout the year as do the main spa and several key restaurants and bars. Some of the smaller seasonal outlets may close but there is always a good selection of dining and leisure options available for residents and guests.
What should I pack for a winter holiday?
Layers are the best approach for the Murcian climate in winter. During the day you will often be comfortable in a t shirt or light jumper but once the sun goes down the temperature drops quickly. A medium weight jacket or a fleece is usually sufficient for the evenings. Do not forget your sunglasses as the sun can be very bright even in the middle of January.
Which is the best airport to use?
Región de Murcia International Airport is the closest, about 40 minutes by car. However Alicante Airport is also a very viable option as it is about an hour and fifteen minutes by car and often has a wider range of flights from regional airports in the United Kingdom. Both airports have excellent road links to the resort and are easy to navigate.
Are the villa pools heated?
Our homes share community pools, which are not heated. If a heated pool matters, choose one of our Los Olivos homes, which share a heated indoor pool. Alma Spa at the Grand Hyatt also has a hydrotherapy circuit with a thermal pool.
Is it necessary to hire a car?
Taxis are available, but a hire car is the easiest way to get around in winter. The resort works with La Manga Rent a Car for car hire and taxis. It gives you the freedom to explore the local markets the city of Cartagena and the various beaches along the coast. The roads are very quiet in the winter making driving a stress free experience and parking is easy to find at most local attractions.
