Excursions in the area
There Parque Regional Salinas and other nature reserves are close to the city and these offer great opportunities for nature walks.
Other sights further away from Torre de la Horadada which you can reach by car.
Alicante
Located about 70 km to the north, Alicante is easily accessible by car in approximately one hour.
Among its many highlights is the iconic Explanada de España, a famous promenade crafted from millions of marble tiles. Lined with graceful palm trees, the promenade is a lively hub for visitors, offering a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Just behind, discover the city’s charming historic center, featuring the unique Mushroom Street, full of character and local flair.
Towering above the city on Mount Benacantil stands the majestic Santa Bárbara Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views over both Alicante and the sparkling coastline. The castle is accessible by car, though parking is limited—many visitors prefer the convenient lift from the city beach, making the ascent easy and enjoyable.
Elche
Located about 61 km to the north in Spain’s Valencia province, Elche is a treasure trove of history and culture.
Its most famous attraction is the Palmeral de Elche, Europe’s largest palm grove with over 200,000 palm trees. This UNESCO World Heritage site is free to enter, making it perfect for peaceful walks and relaxation while admiring ancient Moorish irrigation systems.
Soaring above the Basilica de Santa Maria, the Torre del Homenaje (Calaforra Tower) is a stunning remnant of the medieval city walls, offering spectacular views across Elche.
Families will love the Rio Safari Elche, a unique zoo and water park featuring safari tram rides and captivating live shows.
The remnants of Roman villas and a variety of art galleries throughout the city reveal Elche’s rich historical and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its remarkable past.
Orihuela
Located about 30 km to the north, Orihuela is home to the largest shopping center in Alicante province, Zenia Boulevard, where shopping, entertainment, and gastronomy come together in a vibrant and lively setting.
The beautiful Embalse de La Pedrera reservoir offers stunning views and a peaceful natural escape.
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Colegio Diocesano Santo Domingo, an impressive building worth visiting.
Orihuela Costa features popular beaches such as Cabo Roig and Playa Flamenca, perfect for sun and sea lovers. Golfers can enjoy championship courses at Villamartin and Las Ramblas, known for their excellent facilities and scenic landscapes.
Nature lovers can explore the nearby La Mata Nature Reserve and the Rio Segura protected area, providing wonderful opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
Torrevieja
Located just about 15 km to the north, Torrevieja is famous for its stunning natural reserve, the Laguna Salada de Torrevieja. The highlight is the remarkable Pink Lake (Laguna Rosa), part of the Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja. This vibrant pink-hued lake owes its unique color to high salt concentrations and special algae, creating one of Spain’s most captivating natural wonders and a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Every Friday, the lively Torrevieja Market buzzes with energy, offering visitors a rich array of local products, clothing, and souvenirs in a festive atmosphere.
The town center and harbor are the heart of social life, where bars, restaurants, festivals, and music-filled evenings create a vibrant and welcoming ambiance.
For family fun, the Aquopolis Torrevieja water park presents exciting attractions ideal for children and adults, making it a perfect destination for all ages.
Murcia
Located about 50 km to the west, Murcia is a vibrant university city rich in history and culture.
At the heart of the city stands the magnificent Murcia Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece that combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Its breathtaking facade, designed by Valencian architect Jaime Bort y Meliá, is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque art in Spain. The cathedral’s soaring bell tower, one of the tallest in the country at 95 meters, offers panoramic views of the city to those who climb its 200 steps.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, a lively square dominated by the impressive Archbishop’s Palace, making it a perfect spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Another iconic symbol of Murcia is the Puente Viejo (Old Bridge), spanning the Segura River since 1742. This elegant arched bridge features the Chapel of Nuestra Señora de los Peligros at its eastern end, believed to protect the city from natural disasters. Walking along the Segura’s banks at sunset, visitors can enjoy the beautifully illuminated bridges and tranquil waters.
For a charming break, the Plaza de las Flores offers delightful flower stalls and inviting cafés, ideal for relaxing and savoring the local atmosphere.
Cartagena
Located about 40 km to the south, Cartagena offers an exceptional blend of history, culture, and charming seaside atmosphere.
The city’s most famous landmark is the Roman Theatre, built between 5 and 1 BCE under Emperor Augustus. With a capacity of around 6,000 spectators, it ranks as one of the region’s finest Roman heritage sites. Discovered only recently in 1988 beneath layers of history, this magnificent theatre has been impressively restored and seamlessly integrated into the modern city fabric, including a fascinating museum showcasing Roman artifacts and immersive virtual reconstructions.
Perched on the Molinete hill, visitors can explore an archaeological museum and park featuring the remains of the Roman forum, temples, baths, and the Curia and Capitolium, providing deep insight into the ancient city’s life.
The medieval Castillo de la Concepción dominates the city center, offering panoramic views over Cartagena’s historic streets and vibrant harbor. Strolling around the port area, visitors are immersed in a Mediterranean ambiance with historical walls and inviting local tapas bars.
Cartagena’s colorful old town is best explored on foot, where historic streets, decorative door knockers, and local music create an enchanting atmosphere unique to this captivating city.