Description
San Miguel de Salinas – authentic Spanish living with views over the Costa Blanca
San Miguel de Salinas is a traditional Spanish village in the hinterland of the southern Costa Blanca, situated on a hill south of Torrevieja and not far from Orihuela Costa. Thanks to its elevated position, the village offers beautiful views from various spots over the Vega Baja, the salt lakes and, in the distance, the Mediterranean Sea.
The history of San Miguel de Salinas dates back to ancient times. The area was influenced by various civilisations, including the Romans and the Arabs. Its hilltop location used to be of strategic importance. The economy was traditionally based on agriculture, livestock farming and the trade in agricultural produce. Today, San Miguel is a blend of an authentic Spanish village, modern residential areas and international housing developments.
The centre has a typical Spanish atmosphere with squares, narrow streets, cafés, local shops and restaurants. Those who live in San Miguel feel they are closer to traditional Spanish life than in the larger coastal towns. At the same time, the beaches of Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja and Campoamor are about a 15- to 25-minute drive away.
For walkers and cyclists, the surrounding area offers a varied landscape of hills, farmland and views across the coast. The nearby salt lakes of Torrevieja and La Mata are important nature reserves. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy courses such as Villamartín Golf, Campoamor.
The weekly market in San Miguel de Salinas
The weekly market in San Miguel de Salinas usually takes place every Wednesday. The market is held on and around Calle Juan XXIII and is mainly busy in the morning, usually from around 8.00 am to 1.00 pm. The market has around a hundred stalls and is a general market for both local residents and visitors.
Visitors will find fresh fruit and vegetables, clothing, shoes, bags, leather goods, household items and various everyday products. The market has a more local feel than the larger tourist markets along the coast. This makes it a great place to experience everyday Spanish life.
Other markets in the surrounding area are also easily accessible. On Fridays, for example, you can visit the markets in Torrevieja or Pilar de la Horadada, whilst on Saturdays the large markets in Playa Flamenca and La Zenia are popular. On Sundays, markets in Pinar de Campoverde and Algorfa, amongst others, are worth a visit.
The population consists of Spaniards and a large international community. Britons, Dutch, Belgians, Germans and Scandinavians, in particular, are well represented in the area.
Alicante-Elche Airport is about a 45- to 50-minute drive away. The beaches and shopping centres of Orihuela Costa are relatively quick to reach.