Wedged between the popular coastal destinations of Málaga and Alicante, the region of Murcia occupies a stretch of southern Spain too often neglected by international travellers. Sea coves and quiet beaches characterise its 155 miles of sunny coastline, beyond which lie hills, farmlands, dense forests and valleys perfect for hiking. Reliably balmy year-round temperatures make the province a good option for off-season travel - yet even at the height of summer, you're unlikely to see the crowds so often found in other Mediterranean regions.
Murcia has witnessed a varied history - the Romans, Carthaginians and Moors have all left a legacy, which is evident in the area's architecture, agriculture and festivities.
Gateway to this region is the city of the same name - Murcia, a provincial capital with regular flights from the UK that has the energy of a big city thanks to its university, yet remains intimate and walkable. Stroll past baroque cathedrals along cobblestoned streets, or indulge in a tardeo - the afternoon tradition of hanging out with friends, typically with tapas, beer and live music at terrace bars.
DAY ONE SAINTS & CITY STROLLING
Morning
Wander through the narrow alleyways of Murcia's old town, towards the magnificent Catedral de Murcia, which has the second-tallest bell tower in Spain. Audio guides can be hired for a history lesson on the church's eclectic blend of baroque, Renaissance and gothic architecture. Exit through the 'Door of the Apostles', carved wit angels and kings from the Old Testament, to reach Calle Traperi A hub for fabric merchants and silversmiths in the 14th century, it's now peppered with boutique shops. From here, it's an easy wall to the city's 19th-century Romea Theatre. Legend has it that a friar cursed the building, as it stands on the site of a former convent. catedralmurcia.org
Afternoon
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der March 2024-Ausgabe von National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der March 2024-Ausgabe von National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
The craftspeople of Sarawak
From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter
GOLDEN YEARS
Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades
A TASTE OF The Philippines
A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre
Bear Grylls
THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP
BOSTON
In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.
BALI
Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry
MANCHESTER
A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout
