A host of reasons to take a trip to this hidden valley just half an hour from the city of Murcia

The Ricote Valley, with its green countryside and naturally isolated location, is in the heart of the Region of Murcia and is also sometimes referred to as the Valle Morisco, a reference to when it was home to the Moors who chose to stay in Murcia and convert to Christianity after the those of Islamic faith were expelled from Spain in 1492.

Within the valley lie the municipalities of Abarán, Blanca, Ojós, Ricote, Villanueva del Río Segura, Ulea and Archena, and the picturesque towns sit in a beautiful landscape enhanced by the irrigation systems which the ancestors of the “Moriscos” implemented over the course of centuries. This and the delicious gastronomic tradition make it a perfect destination for visitors, whether they are looking for an active excursion (with activities such as rafting, climbing and kayaking) or what is coming to be referred to as “slow tourism”.

Come and take a look!

If you’re visiting with children one of the most popular attractions is Murapark, an open-air adventure centre for all the family with activities including ziplining, a raised walkway, rock climbing, archery, pedal karts, mini-golf, boat trips and even archaeological digs. Take a look at the website to check opening times and availability.

If you’re looking for active tourism one of the most highly recommended options, whether you’re with the family, with friends or with your loved one, is to travel down the River Segura. On this trip fun, adrenaline and laughter are guaranteed as you descend through the rich landscape and admire the flora and fauna of the area. There are quiet stretches along the river as well as the more exciting, steeper zones, making this a trip for everyone, whether kayaking or rafting. Find out more here in an article published by the regional tourist board (in Spanish)…

If you fancy wallowing in “slow tourism” there are numerous beautiful routes to follow along which you’ll find great viewing points and paths through fascinating and spectacular landscapes. The “Ruta de los Miradores” is one which will take you to the most memorable spots in Abarán, Blanca, Ricote and Villanueva.

Another perennial favourite is the Ruta de las Norias (the Route of the Water Wheels), which illustrates the ancient watering and irrigation systems dating back centuries, to the time when maintaining the fertile land was crucial to the area’s survival. Did you know that there are more water wheels still in use in Abarán than in any other municipality in Spain? Among the mis the largest in Europe, well worth the tri pon its own!

One of the best places to end any trip in the area is the thermal spa resort of Archena, one of the finest in Spain. It is rightly famed for the mineral and medicinal properties of the natural warm spring water, an excellent natural remedy for aches and pains and for a general sense of wellbeing.

The spa resort is open all year round to visitors of all ages and the water is always warm, so what are you waiting for?

And if this whets your appetite for the natural beauty of the Region of Murcia, take a look at this guide to some of the sensorial experiences to mark down on your to-do list. You’ll love them!

 

Source: ITREM

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