Las Dunas shopping centre in Cartagena should be ready in a year
A huge new Mercadona in the centre of Cabo de Palos is one of the most anticipated additions
Cranes, concrete and construction workers are a constant sight in Cabo de Palos this summer as work on the new Mercadona supermarket charges ahead.
Despite the heat and the holiday crowds, the project is on track to open in June 2026. The new supermarket will form the cornerstone of a long-awaited revival for the Las Dunas shopping centre, which has been languishing for years.
“The supermarket will be a boom,” said Isabel Belmonte, vice president of the shopping centre owners.
“Fast-food chains, perfumeries and a gas station are interested.”
For now, there are about a dozen businesses open, mostly in hospitality. Recent additions include a laundromat and a nail salon.
"We’re still waiting for permits and paperwork because they want to open more stores,” she said. “Some are requesting the acquisition of several to have a larger space due to needs.”
Construction is currently focused on the underground car park. The column structure is now in place and the first floor is beginning to take shape. As with other Mercadona locations, customers will likely have access via stairs and a lift.
The supermarket will occupy a three-storey building with a surface area of more than 13,000 square metres. It will replace the existing Mercadona near the entrance to La Manga and the roughly 50 employees there will move to the new store.
Even though things are moving quickly, the company behind the build is sticking to its 2026 timeline. They still have to fit out the interior, install refrigeration units and set up the electrics before the doors can open.
The project to revive the Las Dunas commercial centre, which has been crumbling for years, was first given the greenlight in late 2022. Mercadona was one of the first to show an interest, quickly announcing plans to build a three-storey supermarket, which is set to become one of the biggest in Spain.
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Address
Avn. Gran Via de La Manga Calle L, 30. 30380 La Manga del Mar Menor, San JavierTel: +34 711042823 / +34 711046210
The stylish Colina del Emperador is uniquely situated on the shores of the Mar Menor
Situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, Colina del Emperador is a family-run boutique hotel offering style, a friendly atmosphere and unbeatable views.
Overlooking the pristine waters, the villa has been completely renovated but retains all the classic charm of a Spanish casa. Colina del Emperador offers 5 double bedrooms, including the newly added opulent Emperor Suite (40m2), an intimate and personalised experience for up to 10 guests, as well as a generous breakfast, free tea and coffee facilities and a range of tapas and snacks.
Lunch and dinner can also be arranged by booking with staff before 12pm on the day.
Getting there
The closest airport is Corvera Airport, Murcia (RMU) or you may use Alicante Airport, Elche (ALC).
By car, drive to Cabo de Palos and enter the La Manga strip from the south. The best way to find Colina del Emperador is by entering the name of the hotel directly into Google Maps and following the directions from here (in-car SatNavs don’t always get it right).
Staff will also be happy to arrange a pick-up service for you but this needs to be arranged in advance.
Go to the Colina del Emperador website to book your next stay in the Mar Menor.
Follow Colina del Emperador on Instagram: @colinadelemperador
