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Precipitously balanced on a razor-thin cliff, this castle was built by the Arabs.

Medieval Petrer is dominated by its impressive castle). The old town has almost been swallowed by the adjacent (and unlovely) industrial city of Elda, which is squeezed right up to its borders. Both towns share a long shoe-making tradition, and Petrer’s narrow streets are still home to traditional cobblers. There’s a pretty Neo-Classical church and a pair of charming hermitages.

This brightly coloured fun-park on the edge of Santa Pola has over 50 attractions, including carousels, pirate boats and all kinds of rides.

This tiny village overlooks a narrow, sandy beach with colourful fishing boats. Its relative seclusion makes it popular with naturists.

This sprawling family resort has several sandy beaches spread on either side of a rocky headland, which has an attractive coastal path. The inland village of Mazarrón is a tranquil spot for a break from the beach.

The modest resort of Puerto de Mazarrón, one of the most southerly on the Costa Cálida, is popular with Murcian families. An attractive fishing port and marina sit side by side at the foot of a jutting cape; around it spread low-key developments and long beaches of dark sand interspersed with rocky coves. The resort is linked to the village of Mazarrón, with a smattering of historic monuments, including the Modernista town hall and the pretty 16th-century church of San Andrés.

Tucked away in the Aitana Mountains, this safari park has lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants and an aviary with huge birds of prey. There is a small petting zoo for smaller children, a restaurant, and a swimming pool to cool off in.

Drive past lions, tigers, wolves and leopards at this safari park, where the animals roam freely. There are shows with parrots, seals and dolphins, and a petting area with goats, pigs and ponies.

Pick up some of the famous Fondillón wine.