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A little-known coastal town in the Region of Murcia has been named the best destination in Europe for a boat trip, putting Águilas firmly in the spotlight. The town, on the Costa Cálida, has come out top in a new report by CV Villas, which looked at factors including wind speed, water temperature, sunshine hours and the availability of boats.

 

It is another reminder of just how much appeal Spain’s seaside towns have, especially for visitors looking for a relaxed holiday by the sea. Águilas, in the south-west of the Region of Murcia, has nearly 38,000 residents and sits close to the border with Andalusia. Its fishing port, easy access to the Mediterranean and striking coastline all helped it stand out.

 

The town is not short of scenic beaches either. Poniente Beach, protected by rocks on both sides, is one of the most eye-catching, while Las Delicias Beach offers views of the Castle of San Juan de las Águilas and the nearby Pico de la Aguilica. Other beaches such as Playa Amarilla and Playa del Hornillo add to the appeal of a coastline that has helped the town secure its latest recognition.

 

For visitors who want more than a boat trip, Águilas has plenty else to offer. Its old town is well worth exploring, and there is also local food to enjoy, along with small shops and the chance to climb up to the 16th-century San Juan fort, which sits on a promontory overlooking the area.

 

The town’s appeal is not just about scenery. Águilas has a long history, with traces of past civilisations stretching back to Paleolithic times. The area was also shaped by the Argaric, Phoenician, Roman and Muslim periods, and the Roman remains, including the baths dating from the 1st to the 4th centuries, are among the most notable.

 

As a modern town, Águilas developed under Charles III and his ministers Aranda and Floridablanca, who wanted a port to help export fruit and vegetables from the Lorca plain. It later grew into an important commercial centre, especially during the 19th century, when mining and railway links brought further growth.

 

Today, Águilas still keeps its strong maritime character, while continuing to build its reputation as a holiday destination.

 

 

Image: turismo de murcia