Nestled in the southeastern corner of Spain, the beautiful region of Murcia is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Characterized by spectacular natural scenery and steeped in both rich history and vibrant culture, this hidden gem has a lot to offer travelers of all stripes – and it certainly doesn’t stop there. Add stunning golden sandy beaches and beautiful Baroque architecture to the mix, and there are countless reasons why Murcia is worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Unlike more tourist-heavy regions such as Barcelona or Madrid, Murcia offers a more authentic Spanish experience, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions, enjoy 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 year, it’s the perfect short-haul escape from the UK in almost any season, reaching in two hours and forty minutes by flight from London Gatwick.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or just want to relax in luxurious surroundings, here are four great reasons to make Murcia your next destination for 2024.

Rich history and culture

Murcia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks that tell the story of its long and varied history. The capital, also called Murcia, is home to some of Spain’s most impressive Baroque architecture, including the impressive Cathedral of Murcia, with its stunning facade and tall bell tower – an architectural marvel that took nearly three centuries to complete. Because work was carried out on it over such a long period, the result is a truly unique design and a fascinating mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.

A trip to one (or more) 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 while delving deeper into Murcia’s history and getting to know the works of some of the region’s most famous artists. The Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases an array of exciting national works, is a must, while the Archaeological Museum promises to take you back in time to the region’s ancient past.

As another string to its cultural bow, Murcia is also known for its lively festivals, which take place throughout the year. The Spring Festival and Bando de la Huerta, which celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage, are of particular note and offer a wonderful way to experience the local culture, complete with colorful parades, traditional music and delicious food.

Appetizing local food

Spain is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and Murcia, often called the “Garden of Spain” thanks to its fertile soil and abundance of mouth-watering produce, is one of the best places in the country to enjoy it to the fullest.

A celebration of the region’s agricultural bounty, many of the best dishes to try here are those rooted in tradition – like the tasty ‘Caldero’, a rice dish usually made with fresh fish and cooked in a cauldron by the sea – and a simple but yet delicious dish made with zucchini, onion and egg known as “Zarangollo”.

If you’re a tapas fan, 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 full of 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 that line the shores are perfect for a dip and cool off from the heat of the day, and the Mar Menor – Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, is a fantastic location for water sports enthusiasts and ideal for kayaking, sailing and windsurfing, inter alia.

Further inland there is plenty for hiking enthusiasts too, with the breathtaking Sierra Espuña Natural Park and its rugged mountains, dense forests and abundant wildlife home to various scenic hiking and biking trails. There’s one to suit all skill levels, from easy to challenging – so you don’t need to be a seasoned pro to enjoy the scenery. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, there are also opportunities to embark on organized rock climbing, abseiling and even paragliding tours – so you’ll never be far from your next adrenaline rush.

This park is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with many trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs. The park also offers rock climbing and paragliding opportunities for the more adventurous.

Luxurious accommodation

Of course, no visit to Murcia would be complete without a luxurious base from which to explore it, and here you’ll find plenty of luxury resorts and private villas to choose from. One of the outstanding options in the region is the Barceló Murcia Siete Coronas, a five-star hotel located in the heart of Murcia city.

This elegant hotel offers spacious, modern rooms with stunning views of the Segura River and the lush gardens that surround the hotel. Barceló Murcia Siete Coronas is also home to an excellent restaurant serving a mix of traditional Murcia and international dishes, using the finest local produce. After a busy day exploring the city or kicking back and relaxing on the beach, unwind by the pool, work out in the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness center or enjoy a well-deserved drink at the Bistro Bar. The resort’s central location makes it a perfect base for discovering all that Murcia has to offer, with many of the city’s top attractions within walking distance.

To book your stay, visit https://www.barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelo-murcia-siete-coronas/.