HRGR Leaflet

An Essential Guide To Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort

Things To Do & Places To Visit 16

Welcome to the Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort

A brief history of the Hacienda Riquelme...

In the following pages you will find loads of information about Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort and the surrounding area, so that yo can make the best out of your time on the resort.

Antonio Riquelme y Fontes (1843), is thought to have commissioned the construction of Hacienda Riquelme at the end of the 18th 19th Century. His son, Antonio Riquelme y Arce, I Marquis of Almenas, improved it with a garden in the style of the suburban estates of the mid 19th Century.

We have a Community Centre, which is located near the entrance to the resort.

It is usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, between 10:00 am and noon, and is manned by volunteers.

There is loads of information about Hacienda Riquelme, and the surrounding area. There is a book exchange and internet access, and the facility to print off your boarding passes.

The main building is the manor house initially consisted of one storey, to which a series of secondary buildings were added, surrounding an enclosed central patio, which was later to be divided into two: labourers’ lodgings, stables, dovecots, water tanks, olive oil mills, barns, the use of which date back to the Roman Villas and Muslim hamlets.

The coat of arms displays the ornamental figures which identify and distinguish the lineage of the Riquelme's. The helmet and crest of its minor shield, over a field, represent the warrior to whom they belonged, Guillén Riquelme. This warrior and noble knight accompanied King Alfonso X el Sabio (the Wise) on his conquest of Murcia and is considered to be the start of the Riquelme lineage.

For further information about Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort, and its surrounding area, please go to: www.hrgr.uphero.com You can get access to the website on the computers at the Community Centre.

At the end of the 1800s, the most important trans-formation was carried out, namely, the construction of the second storey and the characteristic tower, with the two heraldic coats of arms on the two façades of the building.

The second half of the 20th century marked the decline of the Hacienda Riquelme.

Hacienda Riquelme Community Centre and Committee holds no responsibility for the accuracy of information held.

Between 2009 and 2010, Polaris World undertook the restoration to permanently restore the Casón de Riquelme.

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© http://haciendariquelmeblog.blogspot.com

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Places to go...

Mar Menor

Murcia

The coastline of Murcia is characterised by its sandy beaches. The most beautiful natural wonder on the coast is the Mar Menor. It is a shallow lagoon or pool. The water in the lagoon is very salty and maintains a hot temperature (5ºC above the average Mediterranean temperature). This watery setting, combined with the facilities at its marina, means you can do a great many sports, such as sailing, scuba diving or windsurfing or you just sit and watch from the many cafés and bars dotted along the edge of the Mar Menor.

The regional capital and University City on the river Segura is around 40 minutes away by car. This vibrant city was founded by the Moors in 825AD and boasts a beautiful Cathedral and University, as well as Botanic Gardens, Museums and other historic buildings around its narrow, but characterful streets. The municipal Casino on Calle Traperia might look like a gentleman’s club from the outside, but it’s open to the general public - just ask the commissionaire for a look around and he will gladly oblige.

Shops include El Corte Ingles, (the Spanish equivalent of Selfridges or Fenwicks etc) and numerous designer label shops on the Calles Traperia and Plateria, dozens of great restaurants and a lively nightlife, especially during fiestas and carnivals.

Beaches Santiago de la Ribera – follow the RM1 to San Javier and just keep on going, through the town and one way system, and carry on – eventually you will reach the beach..

Lo Pagan- go north on AP7 exit 777 – follow the sings.

Cartagena

Los Alcazares - go south on AP7 exit 790 – follow the signs.

Head south for about 25kms and you will come to Spain’s oldest port. Cartagena is one of Spain’s oldest cities, and still of major maritime importance to Spain, both commercially and militarily. A multitude of civilisations have left their mark on the city as numerous archaeological sites and museums will testify. In the heart of the city is a modern shopping area, which spills down past the tapas bars to the recently revitalised harbour. Here you will find the World’s oldest submarine on display, built in 1884 by a local man Isaac Peral.

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Lorca Lorca is a lively and busy place all year round and it Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are the most lavish in Murcia. Huddled around the ruins of its castle, Lorca retains many beautiful buildings such as the Collegiate Church of San Patricio and impressive town houses and mansions that remind us of it’s opulent past. Lorca also plays host to an annual Rock Festival, Lorca Rock, featuring bands such as Iron Maiden, the Scorpions, Slayer, Lacuna Coil and Dream Theatre etc.

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Caravaca de la Cruz

Santiago de la Ribera & Lo Pagan

Caravaca de la Cruz is a town located on the border of Murcia and Granada. The Iberians, Romans and Muslims all passed through this town, which has developed around its Castle, built in the 15th century and commissioned by the Knights Templar. However, Caravaca is essentially the holy town, the town of the cross that carries its name. According to legend, in 1232 the Moorish King Abu Zeid was converted to Christianity when he saw how two angles brought a cross down from heaven to a priest held prisoner in the castle in order for him to give mass. This legend led to the construction, as from 1617 and on the site of the fortress itself, of the main monument of this town in the north-east of Murcia, the Chapel of La Vera Cruz. The most important feature of this building is its luxurious façade, made from red marble excavated in Cehegín and which offers a complete exaltation to the Holy Cross.

Two traditional Spanish seaside towns at the Northern end of the Mar Menor. The beach of Santiago de la Ribera is lined by tall palm trees along the promenade and there are numerous shops, bars and cafes to explore. There is also a new out of town shopping centre called Dos Mares on the outskirts of Santiago de la Ribera, whilst Lo Pagan has a lively fish market on the Esplanade every morning except Sunday.

Sierra Espuña The Sierra Espuña mountain’s largest extensions of forest, as well as being one of its most emblematic areas of outstanding natural beauty. Its modern verdure is due in large part to reforestation campaigns carried out towards the end of the 19th century by the Murcian philanthropist Codorníu. The districts bordering the area are Río Mula (Mula and Pliego) and Sierra Espuña (Alhama de Murcia, Totana, and Aledo). Mula and Pliego nestle between the Espuña and Ricote ranges and are places steeped in local tradition and culture, which, along with the area’s scenery make them an ideal stopping place on inland routes in the region. Alhama de Murcia, Totana, and Aledo are all within easy reach of these wooded uplands, which naturally form part of the identity of the towns themselves.

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La Manga Club Just a 20 minute drive from Los Alcazares is the world famous resort of La Manga, which is set in a 1400 acre corner of the Costa Calida. It also contains the 5 star Regency Hyatt Hotel where the rich and famous spend their vacations. Look carefully and you might some premier league footballers or a TV star. La Manga is where the BBC series ‘Superstars’ was filmed.

Orihuela & Orihuela Coast Orihuela is one of those cities that doesn’t look much from the outskirts, but which blossoms on closer inspection, with a medieval centre stuffed full of historic treasures. Every week in July they stage a mock battle in remembrance of the battles between the Moors and Christians. There are still lots of traditional narrow streets, plus bars and a busy market.

The Orihuela Costa boasts the beaches at La Zenia and Cabo Roig, plus the marinas at Campoamor and Pilar de la Horredada and 3 of the Costa Blanca’s most popular golf courses at Campoamor, Villamartin and Las Ramblas.

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Things to do...

Shopping

Terra Natura Murcia

For those who consider retail therapy a form of relaxation, there is plenty of local shopping.

A theme park just north of Murcia, covering an area of 13,000 square metres of safari park and water park. The zoo is very well laid out with a path that runs around the whole reserve. The animals are well kept and enjoying natural habitat. It is amazing to see the animals so close up, especially the lions and the bears come right up to the window.

Aqua Natura There is also a water park on the same site, Aqua Natura with water slides and great fun for all the family. There are 6 water slides, a slow river and several shallow pools with climbing frames and slides.

Water Sports A professional water sports centre, located on the Mar Menor, is the perfect location for all types of water sports.

Go Karts There is a go-kart track, which is on the airport road, at Los Alcazares. It’s a great fun way to put in an hour, or two, away from the pool, or the beach!

Mar Menor Ferry

About a 20 minute drive away, (AP-7 exit 777) is the Dos Mares shopping centre, located on the outskirts of San Pedro del Pinatar. Dos Mares has around 60 shops and restaurants over 2 floors including a large Eroski supermarket and cinema.

For one of the biggest out of town shopping venues, you need the Espacio Mediterraneo Parque, Cartagena (20 minutes drive). AP-7, exit 191.

La Zenia Boulevard Shopping Center is located in Orihuela Costa. Zenia Boulevard, with over 160,000 square meters, 150 shops and 5,000 free parking space, it is the biggest shopping center in the province of Alicante. The parking is underground or any of the two open air car parks adjacent to the mall, and is free. The best brands (Guess, Nichi Seijo, Zara, Mango, Primark, Decathlon...) all in the same place.

Thader, Murcia - A full range of shops, clothes, jewellery, electrical and a large hypermarket called Al Campo, plus the restaurants, cinema and bowling. Leave the A7 at exit 763a.

Head for the Nueva Condiminium, Murcia, for a shopping mall (with plenty of clothes shopping) and another shopping centre across the A30 (not far from IKEA).

La Nora Outlet Shopping Centre, which is just north of Murcia, off the Murcia to Granada motorway.

The ferry picks up from the pier in the centre of Santiago de la Ribera, and visits other towns and the islands of the Mar Menor, where you can stop off for a delicious lunch.

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Don't Have a Car?

Why not play some tennis (or paddle tennis)? Or 5-a-side football?

Why not learn to play, or practice, your golf?

You will be offered quality and value for money in a wide variety of tuition courses for all levels and ages, in a tranquil, healthy, quality environment. Go to the Golf Shop, in the resort town centre, for details.

Go to the Golf Shop in the Town Centre for details.

Why not eat out?

Why not take the bus to Murcia City?

If there are four of you, you can be taxi'd to the Alhambra Palace Indian Restaurant, not too far away near Roldan, for an evening meal (Tel: +34 968 580 216).

Latbus service 45 stops at Hacienda Riquelme Station at 07:02 and 15:42, for Murcia (arriving 7:50 and 16.30), (Mon Fri). From Murcia (departing 14:30), stopping at Hacienda Riquelme Station at 15:10, (Mon - Fri). Although it is an early start, you might consider staying overnight in the city. It is has a very friendly "Spanish" feel.

Or visit the Jaipur Palace Indian Restaurant, on an industrial estate by Roldan, provides a mini bus for groups wishing to go for a meal and drink. They have a car in addition to the mini bus for groups up to 12. For further information, phone: +34 968 580 565 after 6:30pm.

Why not visit Cartagena, Murcia or even Madrid?

Order a pre-booked taxi from Murcia Property Services on: (0034) 658 318 438 or (0034) 634619687, (other providers are available) to take you to Balsicas railway station; see the RENFE website to see the timetable.

Why not do some cycling?

On your visit to Hacienda Riquelme, you can hire bicycles.

For details phone +34 868 186 858. For an itinerary close to HR, take the second exit on the roundabout immediately outside HR, and follow the road under the railway bridge.

Fork right onto the F48 towards Cabezo de la Plata, this is a windy road and you need to cycle with care.

You could try Palco LoungeBar in the nearby village of Avilles? They will pick you up and drop you off again. The cuisine is Mediterranean The cost is 10 euros return.

Telephone: + 34 968 37 10 64 Email: palcoloungebar@gmail Open: Tuesday to Saturday 13.00 to close. Sunday and Festivals 10.00 to close. Monday Closed.

Why not travel around HR, to Sucina, the coast etc?

There are a number of taxi's etc who provide a service to get you out and about.

Please go to the Community Centre for details of providers.

Why not do some walking?

You can walk the route above.

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Restaurants..

Doctorts...

There is a restaurant and bar at Hacienda Riquelme:

A wide selection of drinks and nice surroundings make this restaurant the perfect setting for meetings, reunions or any type of event. Sip cocktails in the magnificent company, share talk and laughter, and discover the magical summer nights on the terrace.

If you need non urgent medical attention, you can visit the Health Centre in Avileses, not Sucina. Take your EHIC card with you and, if possible, have a couple of photocopies, as you may be asked for one. If you are given a prescription, take it to the pharmacy with your EHIC card, as you will get the medicines at a reduced rate. It might also be best to take your passport with you. You can go to any pharmacy in Avileses, which is around the next right hand corner on the right hand side (one is also on the main road in Sucina).

The friendly atmosphere make the bar the perfect place for meeting friends, business meetings or any other type of event.

Sip on delicious cocktails in the best of company and discover the magic of summer nights on the terrace.

Ast you come into Avileses from HR, turn left at the first road as you come in the village when you see signs for the health centre (Centro Salud), then first right and the health centre is on your left.

Surermarkets...

Health Centre opening hours are below - turn up during opening hours or phone for an appointment first.

Restaurante El CasĂłn.

Opening hours: Everyday from 09:00 to 00:00

There is a supermarket in the resort town centre.

(Opening Times: Mon to Sat 9.00am till 8.30pm, Sun 10.00am till 2.30pm).

Monday Wednesday Friday

A one stop shop with everything you'll need whilst staying at the resort. This well stocked supermarket has everything from fresh fruit and veg, bread and milk to frozen pizza.

English newspapers also are available. Expect to pay a little bit more than local larger supermarkets as you are paying for the convenience of having it on your doorstep.

Please note: In the case of a major emergency, where a paramedic/ambulance is required, it may be sensible, if you do not speak Spanish, to ring our Security on extension 2039, using the internal phone, stating that you require an ambulance. They will arrange it for you and will come to you to help in any way they can – translations etc.

The supermarket stocks a wide range of traditional Spanish food as well as many British brand names. There is fresh bread every day and the supermarkets also stocks other household products, from cleaners to toiletries.

They are first aid trained, CPR trained and carry a defibrillator They will not panic, and will help you with calls to the Emergency Services.

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09.00 - 11.00 Tuesday 09.00 - 11.00 Thursday 12.00 - 14.00

12.00 - 14.00 09.00 - 14.00

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In General:

Community Rules

Please consider your neighbours and keep noise levels down, particularly in the evenings.

In order to ensure that your stay at Hacienda Riquelme is a pleasant one we ask you to adhere to the following rules, which are designed not only for your own safety and enjoyment but also for other guests and owners who share these wonderful facilities with you.

To keep the garden and lawn areas looking at their best please don’t play ball games on the grass or garden areas.

Please don’t ride your bicycle on any grassed or garden areas.

The Pools:

Please don’t block paths with chairs or sun beds.

No drying washing should be visible from the roads nor must it be dried in public areas such as the grassed areas outside the private gardens. Nothing should be hung over balcony railings or walls.

The pools and gardens are for the use of owners and their guests. Members of the public are not permitted to use these facilities.

Please only park in designated spaces.

The pools are open for swimming between 9am and 9pm and we ask that parents keep a close eye on their children at all times as the pools are not attended by lifeguards. Please do not let them enter the pool area without being supervised by an adult. Please always close the pool gates after you.

The speed limit on the resort is 40 km per hour..

Adults are responsible for the safety of children in their care.

Please use the dedicated rubbish bins around the resort. To leave rubbish anywhere else is unhygienic.

Jumping and diving into the pools is not permitted. Many of them have very shallow areas.

Dogs are most welcome here but please keep them on a lead at all times and make sure that you pick up their mess wherever this is on the resort.

Air beds are not allowed in the pool area, nor ball games.

We are very grateful to you for your cooperation and wish you a very pleasant stay.

Unless you are actually playing golf, please do not walk on the golf course (including the buggy track) - it is very dangerous.

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Please do not take glass to the pool (bottles or glasses).

One small breakage could have very unpleasant consequences for someone who wants to enjoy their holiday.

Babies and toddlers MUST wear swimming nappies in the pools

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