Guardamar del Segura

Friday, midday

Check into the Hotel Meridional, (doubles from £60, www. hotelmeridional.es), a four star establishment with outdoor pool and rooftop bar with sea views.

1pm

Argentine steaks and pizzas are on the menu at Papas Sur (www. pizzeriapapas.com), a favourite of locals as well as tourists.

2:30pm

Guardamar’s main attraction is its 11km sweep of sandy beach. Even in winter the beach is ideal for a salt air kissed stroll.

3:30pm

Guardamar’s Archaeological Museum (www.magmuseo.com) is the place to learn all about the impressive heritage of a town that may now be a resort, but which has Roman, Arab and Phoenician roots.

7pm

Le Bleu (www.jaimelebleu.com) is a swish modern restaurant with slick waiting staff that plays with the cuisines of the Mediterranean.

Saturday, 9am

Catch a taxi to the twin lagoons of Torrevieja where you’ll discover one of the best walks in a region excellent for hiking.

Midday

Enjoy a picnic by the lagoons and look out for the famous pink flamingos.

2pm

Stroll north along the sands to the row of houses built by the famed engineer Mira who practically saved the whole town from being engulfed by giant sand dunes in the 19th century. English language info boards tell the tale.

6pm

There’s a sprinkling of cafes and bars by the beach. Settle in and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean.

8pm

El Jardin is a hotel restaurant worth staying in for. Relax on the terrace and enjoy their speciality rice dishes with seafood the highlight, including the legendary local langoustines.

Sunday, 9am

Catch a taxi out to hike the seldom walked Salt Ravine Albatera. Explore the old salt mining trails and discover the streams in this desert-like landscape. ■

Easyjet (www.easyjet.com) fly direct to nearby Alicante from Edinburgh with returns from £46.51. Ramblers Worldwide Holidays (www. ramblersholidays.co.uk) run walking holidays based in Guardamar that take in all the aforementioned walks.