Nestled in the southeastern corner of Spain, the beautiful region of Murcia is one of the nation’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem is characterised by spectacular natural landscapes and steeped in both rich history and vibrant culture, so it has plenty to offer travellers of all kinds – and it certainly doesn’t end there. Add stunning golden sand beaches and beautiful Baroque architecture into the mix, and there are myriad reasons it’s worth adding Murcia to your travel bucket list.
Unlike more tourist-heavy regions like Barcelona or Madrid, Murcia offers a more authentic Spanish experience, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions, savour regional delicacies, and explore unspoiled natural beauty without the overwhelming crowds. And, with a warm and balmy climate offering over 300 days of sunshine each and every year, it’s the perfect short-haul escape from the UK in almost any season, and reachable in two hours and forty minutes by plane from London Gatwick.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to relax in luxurious surroundings, here are four great reasons to make Murcia your next 2024 travel destination.
Rich history and culture
Murcia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks that tell the story of its long and diverse history. The capital city, also named Murcia, is home to some of Spain’s most impressive Baroque architecture, including the show-stopping Cathedral of Murcia, with its stunning facade and towering bell tower – an architectural marvel that took nearly three centuries to complete. Because the work was done on it over such a long period, the result is a really unique design and a fascinating blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
A trip to one (or several) of the city’s many museums and art galleries is the perfect way to while away a hot afternoon in an ice-cold air-conditioned space whilst delving deeper into Murcia’s storied past and getting to know the works of some of the region’s most famous artists. The Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases a variety of intriguing national works, is a must, while the Archaeological Museum, promises to whisk you back in time to the region’s ancient past.
As another string to its cultural bow, Murcia is also known for its vibrant festivals, which take place throughout the year. The Spring Festival and the Bando de la Huerta, which celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage, are particularly worthy of note and offer a wonderful way to experience the local culture, complete with colourful parades, traditional music, and delicious food.
Mouthwatering local cuisine
Spain is known for its rich and flavourful cuisine, and Murcia, which is often referred to as ‘the garden of Spain’ thanks to its fertile soil and abundance of mouthwatering produce, is one of the best spots in the country for enjoying it to the very fullest.
A celebration of the region’s agricultural bounty, many of the best dishes to try here are those rooted in tradition – such as the tasty ‘Caldero’, a rice dish typically made with fresh fish and cooked in a cauldron by the sea – and a simple yet delicious dish made with zucchini, onions, and eggs known as ‘Zarangollo’.
If you’re a tapas fan, then you’re also in luck, because Murcia’s tapas culture is very much alive and kicking. Here, these small dishes are best enjoyed with a glass of locally produced wine or a refreshing ‘Estrella de Levant’ beer, brewed in Murcia itself.
Natural beauty
Murcia is awash with picturesque landscapes and natural beauty, and the golden, sandy beaches of the Costa Cálida are one of its biggest draws. The warm, clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea that lap the shores are perfect for taking a dip and cooling off from the heat of the daytime sun, and the Mar Menor – Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, is a great spot for watersports enthusiasts and ideal for kayaking, sailing and windsurfing, amongst others.
Further inland, there’s plenty for hiking enthusiasts, too, with the breath-taking Sierra Espuña Natural Park and its rugged mountains, dense forests, and abundant wildlife home to various scenic hiking and cycling trails. There’s one to suit all skill levels, ranging from easy to challenging – so you don’t have to be a seasoned pro to enjoy the landscape. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, then there are also opportunities to head off on organised rock-climbing, abseiling and even paragliding tours – so you’ll never be far away from getting that next adrenaline hit.
This park is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with numerous trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing and paragliding for the more adventurous.
Lavish accommodation
Of course, no visit to Murcia would be complete without a luxurious base to explore it from, and here, you’ll find plenty of plush resorts and private villas to choose from. One of the standout options in the region is the Barceló Murcia Siete Coronas, a five-star hotel located in the heart of Murcia city.
This stylish hotel offering spacious contemporary rooms with stunning views of the Segura River and the lush gardens surrounding the hotel. The Barceló Murcia Siete Coronas is also home to an excellent restaurant that serves a mix of traditional Murcian and international cuisine, using the finest local ingredients. After a busy day of exploring the city or kicking back and relaxing on the beach, you can unwind by the pool, let off some steam in the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness centre, or enjoy a well-deserved drink at the Bistro Bar. The resort’s central location makes it the perfect base from which to discover all that Murcia has to offer, with many of the city’s top attractions within easy walking distance.
To book your stay, visit https://www.barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelo-murcia-siete-coronas/.
