“Slow tourism” is a way of travelling which places the emphasis on tranquillity, getting in touch with Nature and showing respect for the environment and local customs, and in the Region of Murcia that philosophy finds plenty of outlets as a result of the diversity of the landscape, the rural and cultural heritage and the wide range of sustainable tourism options on offer.
If you want to experience slow tourism in Murcia, the regional tourist board lists these experiences in the Region as being among the best to discover the Region in a relaxed, aware and above all original way.
1. Gaze at the skies at Cabezo de la Jara
The astronomical observatory of Cabezo de la Jara hosts a range of activities to wonder at the night sky and learn about the phenomena which can be seen with the naked eye and with telescopes. Making the most of the natural surroundings, where light pollution is not a factor, the guided tours enable you to understand and marvel at planets, stars and constellations.
Right alongside the observatory is a short path which represents the solar system, recreated to scale. As you stroll along, you’ll find landmarks showing the planets and other elements such as sundials and lunar clocks, making this a fascinating experience for all the family.
2. The panoramic viewing points in the Ricote Valley
One way to enjoy the green landscape of the Ricote Valley is to visit the series of viewing points in the municipalities of Abarán, Blanca, Ricote, Ulea, Ojós and Villanueva del Río Segura. At these locations you can gaze out at the typical scenery of the valley: the differing shades of green as the vegetation changes, the course of the River Segura and an area full of items of cultural and historical interest.
A highly accessible way in which to enjoy Nature and the special features of the local landscape!
3. Calblanque, a coastal Nature Reserve
The Regional Park of Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas and Peña del Águila boasts completely unspoilt beaches and coves where you can still appreciate how the Mediterranean coastline looked when untouched by the works of Man. The rock formations, the native plant species and the peace and quiet of this area make it one of the most irresistible destinations for visitors who are hoping to get away from the “normal” beaches and commune with Nature in a protected area.
4. Sierra Espuña: hiking in Nature
Sometimes known as the “green lung of Murcia”, Sierra Espuña is a mountain range which is home to a great deal of biodiversity. Following the network of paths which criss-cross the forests, you can see the ancient snow wells (which were used to supply ice to the cities of Murcia and Cartagena before the days of industrial refrigeration) and make you way to viewing points where the whole area suddenly becomes visible. The Ricardo Codorníu Visitors’ Centre provides a wealth of information about the hiking paths in the mountains and the value of the biodiversity to be found there.
5. Follow the Camino de Levante towards Caravaca
The Camino de Levante is a pilgrimage route running from Orihuela to Caravaca de la Cruz and passing through various towns and villages in the Region of Murcia. The route includes sections of the North-West Greenway (“Vía Verde del Noroeste”) as well as country paths and can be completed in various stages.
This is a great way to learn about the geography of inland Murcia as well as the local culture and gastronomy: to find out more, feel free to take a look at the tourist board’s Caravaca de la Cruz blog (available only in Spanish), where you can find top advice for making the most out of your own personal pilgrimage!
6. Country cottages in peaceful surroundings
There is a huge range of rural accommodation in the Region of Murcia, not only inland and in the mountains, but also along the coast. This makes it possible for visitors to stay in locations where they are totally wrapped in Nature and enjoy the pleasures of the great outdoors. Some of them are high in the mountains, others in agricultural settings and yet others in ecologically protected areas – search for your favourite here!
7. Thermal spas and wellbeing
The historic thermal spa resorts of Archena and Fortuna are two of the best places for a truly relaxing break, with thermal spring water, facilities and complementary treatments which combine rest and healthcare in a natural environment. Both are fully accessible to all visitors and open all year round!
Details of these and other spa resorts can be found here!
As you can see, the Region of Murcia offers various opportunities to treat yourself to a more leisurely approach to tourism, focussing on the natural environment and the respect for local ways of life. For more specific information about visiting times, bookings and terms and conditions, make sure to consult the official information sources for each activity and destination.
ENJOY!
Source: ITREM
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