The Mediterranean coast always gets the limelight, but in this region, attractions are also to be found further inland. If you are wondering what to see in Murcia beyond its beaches, today we reveal its lesser-known secrets.
Murcia's agricultural hinterland: the region’s less visible side
When we think of Murcia, the first thing that comes to mind are its beaches and coves, which can be enjoyed all year round thanks to its warm climate. However, further inland lies a lesser-known reality, the trace of centuries of agricultural tradition. Murcian orchards are some of the most productive in the country because they use an irrigation system largely inherited from the Andalusian period. Arid areas became fertile land, and today it translates into irrigation ditches, waterwheels and varied crops.
But in addition to orchards, Murcia’s interior also has mountainous areas and valleys where there is no shortage of small towns and villages where life revolves around the countryside. The attractions of the area are the local markets and local products that have built up the region’s identity.
When it comes to getting around, public transportation can fall short. Therefore, the best way to enjoy the region with total freedom is with a rental car. At OK Mobility, we offer excellent conditions, but also different pick-up points so you can design your route with great flexibility. For example, you can pick it up at Murcia airport or at Alicante airport.
What to see in Murcia: the best stops
To answer the question of what to see in Murcia beyond the coast, here is a route with seven stops. Each of them reflects the region’s agricultural, scenic and cultural diversity.
Murcia and the traditional orchard
Murcia is the natural starting point and its historic centre is the best known part. But the agricultural areas surrounding the city are still active and serve to understand the local economy. There are rural roads, irrigation ditches and small farms that show how lettuce, peppers or the star product, lemons, are grown. It is a direct way to connect with the origin of many of the foods that later appear in the regional gastronomy.
Molina de Segura
Molina de Segura is linked to the canning industry, as it has always taken advantage of the agricultural production of the area. Although today it has evolved, it still maintains that link with the countryside. In the surrounding area, there are simple routes that you can travel by car without going too far away, but which are sufficient to see the crops.
Cieza and flowering fruit trees
Cieza is known for the flowering of its fruit trees, a natural spectacle that tinges the landscape with pink and white tones during some weeks of the year. If you are not heading there when this takes place, which is in February and March, a walk along its roads to see the production of stone fruit in its huge cultivated areas is just as interesting.
Ricote Valley
The Ricote Valley is one of the most unique landscapes of Murcia’s interior. Andalusian heritage is still strongly preserved, visible in the layout of the crops and the use of water. You will find lemon, orange and traditional orchards distributed along the Segura River, which contrast with the aridity of the nearby areas.
Archena and the surrounding area
Archena is known for its spa and its agricultural atmosphere. The nearby land is still cultivated and is part of the usual landscape. It is an interesting stop if you feel like taking a stroll and then relaxing in its hot springs, weather permitting.
Jumilla and its vineyards
Jumilla is a change of landscape compared to the traditional orchard. This is the area of vineyards and wine production with appellation of origin. You can opt for visits and tastings in the wineries or simply drive around the area to see the change in the landscape.
Caravaca de la Cruz
Caravaca de la Cruz puts the finishing touches on the route with its predominantly religious heritage and a rural environment. It is the fifth Holy City of Catholic Christianity and receives hundreds of pilgrims every year. History and agricultural tradition in one place.
Now you know what to see in Murcia to discover its agricultural hinterland. If you want to travel in the utmost comfort and with the flexibility to stop whenever you want, book your rental car in Murcia with OK Mobility now.
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