Ever felt the thrill of discovering something new in a beloved destination? That's exactly what awaits you in Murcia, a lesser-talked-about Spanish gem. We've compiled 17 activities you'd never guess you could do there, each promising unforgettable memories. Ready to unveil Murcia's secrets? Dive in now!
When people think of Roman ruins in Spain, they usually picture Tarragona or Mérida. But Cartagena? It's home to some of the most impressive and least crowded Roman sites in the entire country!
The Roman Theatre Museum
The first time I walked into Cartagena's Roman Theatre, my jaw literally dropped. This 2,000-year-old amphitheater wasn't even discovered until the 1980s when developers were clearing land for a shopping center. Can you imagine their surprise?
The theatre could seat 6,000 spectators in its heyday and has been beautifully restored. What makes it special compared to other Roman theaters is how it's integrated into the museum. You start at the top and work your way down through exhibitions that tell the story of Roman Cartagena (then called Carthago Nova), culminating in that breathtaking moment when you step out into the actual theater.
The best part? While tourists swarm similar sites in Italy or Greece, here you can often have sections all to yourself, especially if you visit in the morning or off-season.
Underground Punic Wall & Roman Forum District
Beyond the theater lies an underground world most visitors miss entirely. The Punic Wall Museum showcases defensive fortifications built by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century BCE—before the Romans even arrived!
Nearby, the Roman Forum District reveals ancient thermal baths, a temple dedicated to Augustus, and the remains of a grand colonial house complete with intricate mosaics. I spent hours wandering these underground passages, imagining toga-clad citizens going about their daily lives.
Pro tip: Buy the combined ticket that gives you access to all archaeological sites in Cartagena. It's significantly cheaper than paying for each separately, and you'll want to see them all!
2. Walk Through an Enchanted Forest in Sierra Espuña
Need a break from Spain's famous beaches? Just an hour's drive inland from Murcia city lies Sierra Espuña, a mountain range with a magical forest that feels like something from a fairy tale.
Hiking Trails & Wildlife Spotting
The Sierra Espuña Regional Park covers over 25,000 hectares of pine forests, dramatic peaks, and hidden valleys. What makes it special is how varied the landscape is—one minute you're walking through dense forest, the next you're on a ridge with panoramic views stretching all the way to the Mediterranean.
For beginners, I recommend the Ricardo Codorníu Visitor Center trails. They're well-marked and relatively flat, perfect for families. If you're more adventurous, tackle the trail to Morrón de Espuña peak (1,583m). The views are absolutely worth the effort!
Wildlife spotters should keep their eyes peeled for Barbary sheep (introduced in the 1970s), wild boars, and numerous bird species. I managed to spot a golden eagle circling overhead during my last visit—a truly magical moment.
The Legend of the "Magic Fountain"
The locals told me about Fuente del Hilo, the "Thread Fountain," hidden deep in the forest. Legend has it that this natural spring never runs dry, even in the most severe droughts. Supposedly, if you drink from it at midnight during a full moon, you'll find true love within the year.
I can't verify the love part (I was already married when I visited!), but finding this secluded fountain makes for a wonderful hiking goal. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it—the forest's dappled light and the fountain's gentle trickle create an atmosphere that's hard to describe but impossible to forget.
3. Float in the Mar Menor's Therapeutic Waters
The Mar Menor isn't just any lagoon—it's Europe's largest saltwater lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean by a 22km sandbar called La Manga. And it has some almost magical properties.
Unique Saltwater Lagoon Benefits
Ever wanted to float effortlessly like in the Dead Sea? You can do that here! The Mar Menor's salinity is significantly higher than the Mediterranean, though not quite as extreme as the Dead Sea. Still, it makes swimming remarkably easy—perfect for non-swimmers or those who just want to relax.
The water is also rich in therapeutic minerals. I'll never forget watching elderly locals slathering themselves with the famous mud from the lagoon's bottom. They told me it helps with arthritis and skin conditions. I tried it myself, and while I can't speak to the medical benefits, my skin felt amazingly soft afterward!
The shallow, warm waters (often 5°C warmer than the adjacent Mediterranean) make it swimmable almost year-round. Even in November, I found people enjoying a dip.
Watersports & Hidden Beaches
The Mar Menor is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. With consistent gentle winds and flat water, it's considered one of Europe's best spots for learning windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. I took a beginners' windsurfing lesson here and was up and moving within an hour!
To escape the crowds, head to the beaches on the inner side of La Manga strip or explore the northern shores near San Pedro del Pinatar. Playa de la Mota is my personal favorite—a narrow strip of sand accessible only by foot through a nature reserve, meaning you'll share it with far fewer people.
Don't miss taking a kayak to Isla del Barón, the largest island in the lagoon. You can't land on it (it's privately owned), but circumnavigating it provides stunning views and a great workout!
4. Discover Murcia's Secret Cave Paintings
Indiana Jones would feel right at home in Murcia's hinterland, where prehistoric humans left their mark thousands of years ago.
Cueva del Puerto & Other Prehistoric Sites
Did you know Murcia is home to some of Europe's most significant rock art? The region's cave paintings are part of UNESCO's World Heritage list of Mediterranean Basin Rock Art.
Cueva del Puerto near Calasparra isn't just any cave—it's the longest in the region at over 4,500 meters, though only part is open to tourists. The guided tour takes you through chambers filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, but what truly amazed me were the ancient paintings.
In Cehegín, visit the Museo Arqueológico to learn about the remarkable Cueva de las Conchas, featuring 5,500-year-old abstract art. Or head to Cieza to see the rock shelters at Monte Arabí with their striking red ochre figures of hunters and animals.
What struck me most wasn't just how old these paintings are, but how they connect us to our ancestors. Standing in the dim light, looking at handprints made by someone thousands of years ago, I felt a profound human connection across time. And the best part? Unlike France's famous Lascaux caves, these sites receive few visitors, so you can often experience them in contemplative silence.
5. Taste Rare Wines in Bullas Wine Region
Spanish wine lovers typically know Rioja and Ribera del Duero, but Murcia's wine regions offer something truly distinct—wines with character as bold as the landscape.
Monastrell Wine Tours
The Bullas wine region specializes in Monastrell grapes (known as Mourvèdre in France), which thrive in the hot, dry climate. These grapes produce intensely flavored red wines with notes of blackberry, violet, and black pepper that you won't soon forget.
I joined a tasting tour at Bodega Monastrell, where the owner explained how they still practice traditional methods alongside modern techniques. The highlight was tasting wine straight from oak barrels in their underground cellar, which stays naturally cool even during Murcia's blazing summers.
What makes these wines unique? The extreme growing conditions. Vines here struggle in rocky soil with minimal rainfall, producing fewer grapes but with incredibly concentrated flavors. Many vines are also 'old growth' (some over 50 years old), adding complexity you simply won't find in younger vineyards.
Bodegas with Stunning Views
Wine tastes even better with a view, right? Lavia Winery sits perched on a hillside surrounded by vineyards and pine forests. Their tasting terrace offers panoramic views that enhance every sip.
For something truly special, time your visit to Bodega Tercia de Ulea for sunset. Their outdoor tastings include local cheeses and olive oils, and watching the sun sink behind mountains tinged purple (the same color as their rich Monastrell) is an experience I still dream about.
Most wineries require advance booking for tours, especially if you want an English-speaking guide. But the extra planning is worth it—these family-run operations offer a personal touch that large commercial wineries can't match. Plus, the prices are remarkably reasonable. I brought home several bottles for under €10 each that would easily cost triple in America!
6. Step Inside a Real Casino (That's Not for Gambling)
When I told friends I visited a casino in Murcia, they assumed I'd been gambling. They couldn't have been more wrong!
Real Casino de Murcia's Hidden Rooms
The Real Casino de Murcia in the heart of the capital city isn't about poker or slot machines—it's a 19th-century gentlemen's social club that has been meticulously preserved. Think of it as a palatial time capsule where Murcia's elite once gathered to discuss politics, art, and business.
From the street, you might walk right past it. But step inside and you'll find yourself in a stunning courtyard inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. Keep exploring and you'll discover a series of themed rooms that left me speechless.
My favorite was the Arabic Room, a perfect reproduction of a chamber from the Alhambra with intricate plasterwork covering every surface. The ballroom with its ornate ceiling frescoes and crystal chandeliers made me wish I'd packed a formal gown. And the library? With its spiral staircases and thousands of leather-bound books, it felt like something from Beauty and the Beast.
For just €5, you can tour the entire building. I recommend going with a guide (available in several languages) who can share the stories and scandals that these walls have witnessed. Did you know that the casino once had a secret door that allowed members to slip away from their responsibilities and into a night of entertainment? The guide will show you where it was!
Don't miss the café, where you can have coffee surrounded by grand mirrors and gold leaf details. I felt like royalty just sipping my espresso there!
7. Visit Europe's Only Desert: The Barrancos de Gebas
Yes, you read that right—there's an actual desert in green, fertile Murcia! The Barrancos de Gebas creates a landscape so otherworldly that it's been used as a filming location for sci-fi movies and commercials.
Moonlike Landscapes & Photography Spots
The first time I visited the Barrancos, I genuinely thought I'd somehow teleported to Arizona or Mars. The badlands-style terrain features deeply eroded gullies of white and gray sedimentary rock, creating a maze-like landscape that changes color throughout the day.
Geologists explain that this semi-desert was formed by centuries of erosion in an area with minimal vegetation. The result is a series of dramatic ravines and pinnacles that photographers dream about. I spent hours trying different angles, especially as sunset approached and the entire landscape glowed gold and amber.
For the best views, take the short hike to the official viewpoint near the village of Gebas. The trail is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. If you're feeling more adventurous, there are longer hiking routes that take you down into the ravines themselves—just be sure to bring plenty of water, as shade is nonexistent and summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C).
The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the low angle of the sun creates dramatic shadows that accentuate the terrain's unusual formations. Avoid midday if possible—the harsh overhead light flattens the landscape photographically, and the heat can be unbearable in summer.
Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for eagles soaring overhead and the occasional fox or rabbit. Despite its barren appearance, this ecosystem supports more life than you might expect!
8. Climb a Castle Lit by a Thousand Lights (Lorca Fortress)
Perched dramatically atop a hill overlooking the city of Lorca sits one of Spain's most impressive medieval fortresses—and it puts on quite a show after dark.
Nighttime Light Shows
Lorca Castle dates back to the 13th century when it served as a frontier fortress between Christian and Muslim territories. By day, it's impressive enough with its massive towers and walls. But at night? It transforms into something magical.
Several times a year, the castle hosts "Lorca Luminosa," a spectacular light and sound show that brings the fortress's stones to life. Thousands of LED lights illuminate the walls in changing colors while narration and music tell the story of Lorca's turbulent history.
I happened to visit during one of these events, and the experience was unforgettable. Standing in the main courtyard as the walls shifted from deep red to royal purple to brilliant gold, I felt transported through time. The narration (available with headsets in multiple languages) explained how Christians, Muslims, and Jews all contributed to the castle's history.
Even without the special light shows, evening visits offer a different perspective. The castle is beautifully lit every night, and watching the sunset from the ramparts as the city lights begin to twinkle below is worth the uphill walk alone.
Inside, you'll find the Parador hotel (yes, you can actually stay in the castle!), museums displaying medieval weaponry, and archaeological finds. The fortress complex is huge—plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring. Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and there are many stairs.
If you're interested in history, time your visit to coincide with one of the medieval festivals when actors in period costumes demonstrate ancient crafts and battle techniques. I watched a fascinating demonstration of how archers defended the castle, complete with authentic replicas of medieval bows.
9. Hunt for Fossils in the Ricote Valley
Indiana Jones meets paleontology in the stunning Ricote Valley, where ancient seabeds have been thrust upward to create fossil-rich mountainsides.
Ancient Marine Fossils
It's hard to believe as you stand in the sun-baked Ricote Valley that you're actually exploring what was once the bottom of a prehistoric sea. Millions of years ago, this entire area was underwater, teeming with marine life. As the African and European tectonic plates collided, the seabed was pushed upward, preserving countless fossils in the process.
Today, the limestone cliffs and hillsides of the valley are a treasure trove for amateur fossil hunters. During my visit, within just an hour of casual searching, I found perfectly preserved shells, coral fragments, and even what appeared to be part of an ancient sea urchin!
The most accessible fossil-hunting grounds are near the village of Ricote itself. Local guides offer half-day excursions that combine hiking with fossil hunting, and they're experts at knowing exactly where to look. My guide, Miguel, showed me how to identify different types of fossils and explained how they help scientists understand what the Mediterranean region looked like millions of years ago.
What makes this experience special isn't just finding the fossils—it's the setting. The Ricote Valley is one of Murcia's most beautiful areas, with terraced hillsides covered in citrus groves, almonds, and olives. The villages here maintained their Moorish character long after the Reconquista, and you can still see the influence in the architecture and agricultural techniques.
Remember that while casual observation and photography are fine, removing fossils is regulated in many areas. Check with local authorities or join an official tour to make sure you're following appropriate guidelines. The really special specimens belong in museums where everyone can enjoy and learn from them!
10. Sail to an Abandoned Island: Isla Grosa
Just off La Manga's coastline lies a mysterious island with no permanent human residents—just thousands of seabirds and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.
Wildlife & Snorkeling Secrets
Isla Grosa rises dramatically from the Mediterranean, its rocky cliffs providing sanctuary for one of the Mediterranean's most important colonies of Audouin's gulls and European storm petrels. Approaching by boat, the island appears almost conical—like a volcano emerging from the sea (though it's actually not volcanic).
While you can't disembark on the island itself (it's a protected nature reserve), boats anchor in the surrounding waters for swimming and snorkeling. The day I visited, the sea was so clear I could spot fish from the boat before even entering the water!
Once underwater, I discovered an extraordinary world. The protected status means marine life here is abundant and less skittish than at busier beaches. Schools of damselfish, striped seabream, and even the occasional grouper glided past. Near the rocky edges of the island, colorful starfish and sea anemones create an underwater garden.
What I found most magical was snorkeling through the "underwater meadows" of Posidonia oceanica (Neptune grass)—a flowering seagrass that creates complex ecosystems and helps maintain the Mediterranean's extraordinary water clarity. Scientists call these meadows "the lungs of the Mediterranean" because they produce so much oxygen.
Several companies in La Manga and Cabo de Palos offer half-day boat trips to Isla Grosa. For the best experience, choose one that includes snorkeling equipment and has a marine biologist or knowledgeable guide on board. Mine pointed out species I would have completely missed on my own!
The waters around Isla Grosa are calmest in the morning before the afternoon winds pick up. If you visit in late spring, you might witness the seabird colonies in their breeding season—an impressive spectacle of nature, though boat operators are careful to maintain respectful distances to avoid disturbing them.
11. Try Zarangollo (Murcia's Signature Dish)
Every region in Spain has its culinary specialties, and Murcia is no exception. But while you might have heard of paella or tapas, chances are you've never encountered zarangollo—and you're missing out!
Best Places to Try It
Zarangollo is the epitome of Murcian home cooking—simple, hearty, and bursting with flavor. This traditional dish consists primarily of scrambled eggs with slowly cooked zucchini, onions, and sometimes potatoes. It sounds basic, but the magic is in the preparation. The vegetables are cooked until meltingly soft, then eggs are stirred in to create a creamy, comforting mixture that's typically served warm as a tapa or light meal.
My first encounter with zarangollo was at a tiny family-run restaurant called Bar Fénix in Murcia city. The owner explained that every family has their own version—some add tomatoes, others include sliced Murcian sausages, and the debate over whether to include potatoes can apparently spark heated arguments at family gatherings!
For a traditional version, head to La Pequeña Taberna in Murcia's historic center. Their zarangollo is prepared the old-fashioned way in a clay dish, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. For a modern interpretation, try El Jardín de Los Sentidos, where they serve it as an elegant starter topped with truffle oil and microgreens.
In Cartagena, Restaurant Magoga offers a deconstructed version that maintains the traditional flavors while presenting them in a more sophisticated form. Their chef told me they source all vegetables from farms less than 30 kilometers away, ensuring peak freshness.
What makes zarangollo special isn't fancy techniques or exotic ingredients—it's how it represents Murcia's agricultural abundance. The region produces some of Spain's finest vegetables, and this dish puts them center stage. It's often served with fresh bread to soak up the flavorful oils, and pairs beautifully with a glass of local Monastrell wine.
Don't leave Murcia without trying it at least once—and if you're feeling inspired, it's simple enough to recreate at home as a delicious souvenir of your travels!
12. Walk Among Giant Mushroom Rocks in Bolnuevo
Nature sometimes creates sculptures more fantastic than any human artist could design. The Enchanted City of Bolnuevo proves this with its collection of wind-carved "mushroom rocks" that seem to defy gravity.
Erosion's Natural Artwork
Located just outside the beach town of Puerto de Mazarrón, these bizarre sandstone formations rise from the ground like something from a science fiction movie. Created over millions of years by wind and water erosion, they feature wide tops balanced precariously on narrower bases—hence the mushroom comparison.
What makes these formations scientifically interesting is the process that created them. The rocks consist of sandstone with different densities. Wind carrying sand particles has slowly worn away the softer lower portions while leaving the harder upper sections relatively intact, creating these top-heavy shapes that appear ready to topple at any moment (don't worry—they've been stable for centuries).
Walking among these formations at sunrise was one of the most magical experiences of my Murcian adventure. The golden light hitting the sandstone made the entire landscape glow amber and pink, while long shadows emphasized the rocks' unusual shapes. I spent hours taking photographs, trying to capture their otherworldly quality.
For the best photos, visit early morning or late afternoon when the low angle of the sun creates dramatic shadows. The site is completely free to visit and accessible 24 hours a day, though there's limited parking nearby. If you're visiting in summer, bring water and sun protection—there's no shade apart from what the rock formations themselves provide.
While the nearby beach resort of Bolnuevo offers all the typical tourist amenities, the rock formations themselves remain refreshingly undeveloped. There's just a simple wooden walkway and a few informational signs—nature is allowed to speak for itself.
After exploring, I recommend heading to one of Bolnuevo's seafood restaurants. I enjoyed a delicious lunch of fresh grilled fish at Restaurante Oasis while looking out at both the mushroom rocks and the Mediterranean—a perfect combination of Murcia's natural wonders.
13. Attend a Flamenco Festival in a Cave (Cuevas del Canelobre)
Imagine experiencing Spain's most passionate art form not in a tablaos or theater, but deep inside a mountain where the acoustics transform every note and footstep into something transcendent.
Unique Acoustic Experience
The Cuevas del Canelobre near Alicante (just across the regional border from Murcia but worth the short drive) are among Spain's largest and most spectacular caves. Their main chamber reaches 70 meters in height and features an enormous stalagmite formation resembling a candelabra (canelobre in Spanish), giving the caves their name.
While impressive at any time, the caves become truly magical during the summer Flamenco Festival. For several weekends each July and August, the main chamber transforms into perhaps the world's most unusual performance venue. Watching a flamenco performance here is a multi-sensory experience unlike any other.
I attended a performance by famed guitarist Juan Manuel Cañizares and dancer Patricia Guerrero. The cave's natural acoustics amplified the music without any need for electronic enhancement, while the dramatic lighting cast enormous shadows of the dancers against the ancient rock formations. The percussive footwork of the bailaora (female dancer) echoed throughout the space, creating a rhythm that seemed to emerge from the earth itself.
What makes this experience so special is how the setting enhances flamenco's raw emotional power. In this primordial space, the art form connects even more deeply to its ancient roots. The cool air of the cave, the smell of mineral-rich dampness, and the occasional drop of water falling from stalactites all become part of the performance.
Tickets sell out quickly, so book well in advance through the caves' official website. Performances typically begin at 8:30 PM and last about 90 minutes. Arrive early to enjoy a guided tour of the caves before the performance. The temperature inside stays around 16°C (61°F) year-round, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
After the show, several restaurants in nearby Busot serve late dinners for concert-goers. I enjoyed a wonderful meal at Restaurante Peña de la Mata, where the conversation was all about the magical performance we'd just witnessed—a perfect end to an unforgettable evening.
14. Cycle Along a Former Railway (Vía Verde del Noroeste)
Old railways make the best bike paths—flat, scenic routes far from traffic where you can pedal through history at your own pace.
Scenic Bike Routes
The Vía Verde del Noroeste is a 78-kilometer greenway built on a former railway line that once connected Murcia city with Caravaca de la Cruz. "Vía Verde" means "Green Way," and it's part of a national program that has converted abandoned railway lines into recreation paths across Spain.
What makes this particular Vía Verde special is how it showcases Murcia's diverse landscape. Starting in the agricultural plains near the capital, it gradually climbs into the mountains, passing through tunnels and over viaducts that offer spectacular views of the countryside.
I rented a bike in Bullas (roughly the midpoint of the route) and cycled about 20 kilometers in each direction over two days. The trail is well-maintained with a smooth surface suitable for all types of bicycles and even wheelchairs in many sections. There are kilometer markers throughout, making it easy to track your progress.
One of my favorite stretches was near Mula, where the path crosses dramatic gorges on old railway bridges. Standing in the middle of a viaduct with panoramic views of olive groves and distant mountains, I felt a sense of freedom that's hard to find on conventional cycling routes.
The old railway stations along the route have been beautifully restored and converted into rural hotels, restaurants, or information centers. I stopped for lunch at Estación de Caravaca, where the former station house now serves traditional Murcian cuisine. Their rice with rabbit and snails, washed down with local wine, provided perfect fuel for the afternoon's riding.
For families or casual cyclists, the section between Bullas and Caravaca is ideal, with gentler gradients and more services along the way. More ambitious cyclists can tackle the entire route over 2-3 days, staying at the converted station accommodations.
Bike rental shops in Murcia city, Bullas, and Caravaca offer quality mountain bikes and e-bikes (recommended if you're planning to cover longer distances or if you're concerned about the gradual uphill sections). Some offer one-way rentals with pickup service, allowing you to ride in one direction without having to return to your starting point.
15. Stay in a Cave Hotel (Yes, Really!)
When someone asks where you stayed in Spain, imagine saying "in a cave"—and then explaining it was actually luxurious!
Best Cave Accommodations
Cave dwellings have a long history in southern Spain, where their natural insulation keeps interiors cool during scorching summers and warm during winter nights. Today, several entrepreneurs have transformed traditional cave homes into unique accommodations that combine rustic charm with modern comforts.
Las Cuevas El Abanico near Guadix (just across the border in neighboring Andalusia but an easy day trip from Murcia) offers one of the most authentic experiences. Each cave suite is carved into the hillside with whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and rounded ceilings. My suite had a fully equipped kitchen, luxurious bathroom, and—somewhat surprisingly—excellent Wi-Fi.
The most remarkable aspect of cave living is the silence. The thick earthen walls block out all outside noise, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere that guaranteed the best sleep I've had while traveling. And despite the summer heat outside (it was 38°C/100°F during my visit), the interior maintained a pleasant 18-20°C (64-68°F) without any air conditioning.
For something closer to Murcia city, Casas Cueva La Tala in Ricote Valley offers cave apartments with private terraces overlooking the valley's spectacular landscape. Their caves feature traditional furnishings with modern touches, and some include private hot tubs where you can soak while stargazing.
What makes these accommodations environmentally friendly is their minimal energy consumption. The earth's natural insulation means little heating or cooling is required, and many properties use solar power for their minimal electricity needs.
Most cave hotels include outdoor spaces where guests can enjoy breakfast with panoramic views. At El Abanico, I started each day with fresh bread, local honey, and strong coffee on my private terrace, watching the sunrise illuminate the lunar-like landscape.
These unique accommodations book up quickly, especially in peak season, so reserve well in advance. Prices are surprisingly reasonable—often comparable to conventional hotels of similar quality but offering an experience you'll be talking about for years to come!
16. Witness a Medieval Festival in Caravaca de la Cruz
Spain loves its historical festivals, but the festival of Caballos del Vino (Wine Horses) in Caravaca de la Cruz might be the most spectacular you've never heard of.
Horses & Knights Reenactments
Caravaca de la Cruz, one of the five holy cities of Catholicism (alongside Rome, Jerusalem, Santiago de Compostela, and Santo Toribio de Liébana), celebrates its heritage with extraordinary passion during the first week of May each year.
The highlight is May 2nd, when the Caballos del Vino festival takes place. Teams of four men run alongside magnificently decorated horses through the steep streets up to the castle. The horses wear elaborate hand-embroidered mantles (mantos) that take an entire year to create and cost thousands of euros. The craftsmanship is breathtaking—intricate designs incorporating silk, gold thread, beads, and sequins cover every inch of the caparisons.
According to legend, the tradition commemorates an episode during the 13th century when Knights Templar broke through a Muslim siege to bring wine to the besieged castle. The wine was not just for drinking but was used to disinfect water contaminated by the besiegers. When the Christians eventually triumphed, the grateful residents celebrated by decorating the knights' horses.
I was fortunate enough to witness this festival, arriving in Caravaca two days early to secure accommodation (absolutely essential—the town's population triples during the celebrations). The atmosphere was electric, with the entire community involved. Local families work all year in preparation, designing costumes and rehearsing for their roles.
Beyond the horse race, the week includes medieval markets, religious processions featuring the famous Cross of Caravaca (said to contain a fragment of the True Cross), historical reenactments, and traditional music and dance performances. The streets overflow with people in period costumes, food stalls serving local specialties, and craft demonstrations.
What makes this festival special compared to better-known Spanish celebrations is its authenticity. While it certainly attracts tourists, it remains primarily a local event, celebrated by and for the community. The competitive spirit between the different horse teams (representing different neighborhoods) is intense but friendly, with everyone united in preserving this unique tradition.
If you can't visit during the festival itself, Caravaca's Museo de los Caballos del Vino displays the elaborate mantles from previous years and explains the festival's history and significance.
17. Stargaze in One of Spain's Clearest Skies (Calar Alto)
In our light-polluted world, truly dark skies have become a rare treasure. The mountains of inland Murcia offer some of Europe's best stargazing opportunities.
Best Spots for Astrophotography
While Calar Alto Observatory itself is just across the regional border in Andalusia, the surrounding mountainous areas in northern Murcia offer equally spectacular night skies. The combination of high altitude, low humidity, minimal light pollution, and over 300 clear nights per year creates perfect conditions for admiring the cosmos.
During my visit, I joined a stargazing tour led by an amateur astronomer who set up several telescopes near Sierra Espuña. As darkness fell completely, the Milky Way appeared—not as the faint smudge visible from most places, but as a brilliant river of light stretching across the entire sky. Through the telescopes, I observed Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons, and distant star clusters with remarkable clarity.
For independent stargazers, several areas offer exceptional viewing with convenient access. The plateau near Revolcadores (Murcia's highest peak) provides 360-degree horizon views and minimal light interference. The remote areas around Moratalla also offer excellent conditions, with several rural accommodations catering specifically to astronomers and astrophotographers.
If you're interested in photography, even basic equipment can capture amazing results here. I brought a DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens and tripod, experimenting with long exposures to capture the Milky Way. The results were better than anything I'd achieved elsewhere in Europe.
Several companies now offer specialized astrotourism experiences, combining accommodation in rural houses with guided stargazing sessions. Some even provide photography instruction to help you capture your own cosmic souvenirs.
For families, these experiences can be educational and inspiring. The guide on our tour was particularly skilled at engaging children, using a green laser pointer to identify constellations and tell the myths associated with them. Seeing a child's face light up when they first spot Saturn's rings through a telescope is a joy that rivals any other travel experience.
The best stargazing occurs during new moon periods when the moon's brightness doesn't compete with fainter objects. Summer offers warmer night-time temperatures but shorter darkness periods, while winter brings longer nights but requires bundling up against the mountain chill. Either way, bring warm clothing—even summer nights can be cool at higher elevations.
Your Turn to Discover Murcia's Magic
From floating in mineral-rich waters to stargazing under pristine skies, from sipping rare wines to exploring ancient ruins, Murcia offers experiences that combine authenticity with uniqueness. It's the Spain that many travelers dream of finding—one where local traditions thrive, natural beauty abounds, and visitors feel like discoverers rather than tourists.
What I love most about Murcia is how it rewards curiosity. Around every corner, down every village street, there's something unexpected waiting to be discovered. The experiences I've shared represent just a fraction of what this remarkable region offers.
So which of these hidden Murcian gems will you explore first? The mushroom rocks of Bolnuevo? The Roman ruins of Cartagena? Or perhaps you'll float in the therapeutic waters of Mar Menor before heading inland to sample wines that taste of the Spanish sun?
Whatever you choose, Murcia will welcome you with open arms and authentic experiences that will have you planning your return before you've even left. ¡Buen viaje!
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