Go off-grid in Spain in the lesser-visited region of Murcia

With over 250km of pristine coastline and a wide variety of tourism experiences, Murcia region offers a refreshing alternative, with fewer crowds. From cultural treasures like the historic city of Caravaca to serene rural retreats in the regional park, Murcia provides a peaceful, authentic experience for those looking to explore Spain off the beaten path.

Juan Francisco Martínez Carrasco, Director of the Institute of Tourism for the Region of Murcia, says “The Murcia region has a diverse offering with rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere. This offering is reflected in visitor behaviour as the Murcia region is the preferred Spanish region for long-length stays, with the average stay of international tourists between January and July 2024 reaching 13.14 days.

The majority of visitors who come to the region chose to return thanks to the warmth and hospitality of local people and authentic experiences available as well as the year-round sunshine that provides a great base for outdoor adventures, away from the crowds, at unbeatable prices.”

With over 300 days of sunshine a year and highs of 21 degrees in November and 18 degrees in December, the Murcia region has an array of off-grid, outdoor adventures to enjoy this Winter.

HIKE THROUGH THE HISTORICAL STREETS OF LORCA IN THE SUNNY REGION OF MURCIA     

Lorca, a historic city in the region of Murcia, Spain, is the perfect spot for those seeking to blend a cultural city break with proximity to the coast for beach days. Boasting palaeolithic through to Roman and Moorish influence, Lorca is brimming with archaeological delights to be admired, with a hike up to the city’s medieval castle of the sun and a visit to the stunning baroque church that overlooks Lorca’s central square, a must. Visitors also can’t miss a trip to one of Murcia’s rugged beaches along the 9km of stunning Lorcan coastline to soak in the warm Spanish winter sun.

To sleep in style, staying at art-deco inspired hotel, Parador de Lorca can’t be missed. Located in the city’s castle grounds, the Parador combines history with the comfort of contemporary design. Guests can unwind in the evenings at Lorca spa’s hot tub or steam room or take in panoramic city views from the terrace. And, to learn more about the city’s historic past, guests need only to check out the historic remains of the 15th century synagogue preserved within the Parador’s walls or book a guided tour accompanied by King Alfonso X “The Wise”, every Sunday morning - free to those staying in the Parador.

Stays at Parador de Lorca start at £74 per night, on an accommodation only basis in a standard double room.

ENJOY A LUXURIOUS RURAL ESCAPE IN THE SIERRA ESPUNA REGIONAL PARK

The Sierra Espuña, Murcia’s prime ecotourist destination, has impressive landscapes with a vast expanse of trees thanks to the reforestation work that was carried out in the region, and is perfect for hiking and cycling. The park has a varied landscape, from the Paredes de Leyva cliff faces and ravines of Gebas or la Hoz to the Muela plateau waterfall and surrounding reservoirs. The Bajo el Cejo hotel is a renovated farmhouse located in the heart of the Sierra Espuña Regional Park in the sunny Region of Murcia. The hotel is immersed in nature, with the infinity pool overlooking rows of vineyards and the gardens having scattered fig and pomegranate trees. Almost everything on the menu is homegrown or using zero-kilometer produce, so guests are able to enjoy local delicacies created using the local cheeses, vegetables and breads made and grown nearby. It also has a sauna and steam room, the perfect way to end a busy day.

The Bajo el Cejo hotel has 12 double rooms available, with B&B double rooms from £80.

STAY AMONGST THE ORANGE TREES IN THE RICOTE VALLEY

The Valle de Ricote, the last Moorish stronghold in Spanish Levante, is a hidden gem in the fertile plains of the River Segura. This picturesque valley, that is home to the towns of Abarán, Archena, Blanca, Ricote, Ojós, Ulea and Villanueva del Río Segura, offers visitors the chance to discover rich culture through its Arab heritage, from ancient irrigation systems to traditional gastronomy. The area is also known for its stunning orchards, vineyards and diverse landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, rafting, and horse riding. Visitors can enjoy stays at rural accommodations while exploring the valley’s rich cultural and natural beauty, such as La Joya del Valle de Ricote, a group of three independent apartments set amongst the orchards and orange trees.

The La Joya del Valle de Ricote hotel has three independent apartments, with prices starting at £59pp based on a couple sharing on a B&B basis.

TAKE AN ALTERNATIVE PILGRIMAGE THROUGH THE REGION OF MURCIA

The Camino de Levante in the Region of Murcia allows visitors to follow a lesser-trodden route through Spain and see the highlights of the pilgrimage route over a five-day walk.

The route follows the River Segura and passes through fields and orchards on a 120km route to the city of Caravaca. Along the route, there are inspiring stops, interesting not only to those making the journey for religious reasons but also for hiking enthusiasts. From the local churches, including the Nuestra Señora de la Consolación, to Roman remains, such as the Roman Villa of Los Villaricos, , and the Cathedral of Saint Mary in the city of Murcia, there is impressive architecture to admire along the entire route. Following the Northwest greenways (repurposed old railway lines), walkers will arrive at Bullas, the land of vineyards and wine, to sample the local flavours and visit the Museo del Vino (Wine Museum). The last stage of the route will pass through the Taibilla canal, allowing travellers to explore the pine forests and vineyards before arriving at their final destination: Caravaca de la Cruz, to see the Basílica-Santuario de la Vera Cruz. According to religious history and the Christian faith, the Holy Cross of Caravaca, in the Region of Murcia, contains a fragment of the Lignum Crucis; that is, the cross on which Jesus Christ died.

Walkers will follow the following route:

Orihuela – Murcia: Begin the journey in Alicante, venturing onto Murcia (24km) Hotel Cetina Murcia, in Murcia City is priced from £45 a night for a standard room.

Murcia - Alguazas: discover the orchards of Murcia (26km) Stay at the Villasegura hotel which provides traditional regional and national cuisine with modern touches using local produce. Hotel Villasegura in Molina de Segura is priced from £52 per double room. 

Alguazas – Mula: explore ruins and Barrancos de Gebas (26km) Stay at La Casa de los Coy, a hotel that boasts a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a garden. La Casa de los Coy, in Mula, is priced from £71 per double room.

Mula – Bullas: stroll through vineyards and landscapes (21km) Stay at Hotel SG, home to a restaurant and winery that serve features Mediterranean cuisine and local wines of Bullas. Hotel SG, in Bullas, is priced from £70 per double room. 

Bullas – Caravaca de la Cruz: finishing the route in style (21km) Stay at the Hotel La Vera Crus, set in the Medieval heart of Caravaca de la Cruz, just a short walk from the central Plaza del Arco. Hotel La Vera Cruz, Caravaca de la Cruz, is priced from £67 per double room.

For more information about the Caravaca de la Cruz visit  here.

The Region of Murcia has launched a user-friendly digital platform aimed at visitors who are joining the pilgrimage this year that shares key information about the planning of the routes including accommodation details, restaurants, main highlights to see. 

The Region of Murcia is well connected to the UK, with frequent departures from 10 airports to Murcia International.  Easyjet offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Murcia International Airport starting from £35.99 (single fare).