THE MAR MENOR, A FOUNTAIN OF HEALTH The shallow waters and the absence of tides make the Mar Menor the ideal place for all types of water sports. As a result of the efforts of many of the business proprietors here, it was the first area in Spain to become known as an "Estacion Nautica" (Nautic Resort), with the prime object being to promote tourism during "out of season" months, especially in the field of water sports. With a total surface area of 170 square kilometres (over 60 square miles!) it is the largest salt water lake in Europe. The waters of this "lake" have an average depth of 3.5 metres, with a maximum of 6.5 metres, and it's perimeter extends for some 73 kilometres (approx. 46 miles). It is a magnificent natural swimming pool with temperatures which are maintained by a sun which shines for an average of 320 days each year - i.e. approx.3000 hours sunshine each year! This provides water temperatures in the winter months of 11ºC which rises to 30ºC at the height of the summer. The waters register a saline content of 50% (the highest in Europe!) and are scientifically recognised as being therapeutic in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and many other ailments. The "black mud" from the Mar Menor, although creating a strange sight when first seen smothered over the bodies of some of the visitors, is used to relieve the pain and the symptoms of these conditions.