Thermal Spas and the Ricote Valley

This itinerary starts in Murcia City, one of Spain's most underrated capital cities. Not many know about this place, but travelers are beginning to take notice of the city's fantastic foodie scene, fascinating history, and lively nightlife. Spend a night or two in the city to discover its secrets before taking off on this adventure up the river.

As you drive out of Murcia, you'll pass through the desert-like landscapes this part of Spain is known for. Chimneys from the industrial age rise from the villages, marking the entire area as a former industrial powerhouse in Spain at the end of the 19th century.
Your first stop is the Archena Spa, a fantastic complex of pools, spas, and massage rooms. This ancient Roman bath is a highlight of the area and a well-kept secret.
Entrance to the spa needs to be reserved on the official website where you can also browse the range of services on offer.
Open from 10:00 daily.

After a relaxing morning of soaking in the hot springs, it's time to delve further upriver toward the town of Ricote. This is a quiet town that's becoming well-known as a hiking mecca, with trails leading up into the surrounding mountains on all sides.
Park the car and head to the northeast of town, where a trail quickly leads you to the Mirador del Solvente, giving you a fine vista over Ricote and the fragrant orange and lemon trees that surround it.

Continue on foot up the trail for a further 15 minutes to arrive at the Mirador de la Fuenta. This spot offers a commanding view over the valley beyond, home to a large dam with beautiful, milky-blue water. It's a small taste of what's to come, as that's where you're driving next. For those who want, you can continue along the hiking trail, which eventually loops back down to town in around an hour or so.
Good walking shoes are required as the trail is quite rocky.

Whether you've hiked around the mountain or made the quick stroll back into town, make sure you don't leave without heading to El Sordo, the best restaurant in town. This is a place that's beginning to make waves around the rest of the region, with plenty of people paying a visit to Ricote simply to eat here.
Opening Hours: Thursday – Sunday 12:30 – 17:30.
If the restaurant is closed, there are several other options for eating in Ricote or the nearby town of Ojós, your next stop.

From Ricote, you'll make the short drive down to Ojós, a small settlement on the River Segura. This town is an oasis in the middle of the desert-like landscape, the riverbank lined with beautiful palm trees and lush plants.
In Ojós, there is plenty of free parking on the side streets.

Once you've parked your car in town, enjoy a stroll down by the river, Pmarveling at the contrast between the rugged mountains surrounding the area and the beautiful verdant greenery. Make sure to cross over Puente Colgante de Ojós to the eastern side of the river, turning north to stroll along what's known as the Paseo de las Palmeras (Passage of the Palms) before looping back across the river and back down to your car.

After exploring this little gem of a town, make your way back to the car to head further upriver.

There are more beautiful walks along the river bank further north of Ojós, where this plankway crosses the milky blue water. Again, it's a beautiful spot to spend some leisurely time exploring and enjoying the beautiful oasis along the river banks.

After your explorations along the river, you'll make the drive through the valley to Blanca, the town perched at the top of the Ojós Dam. This picturesque village has several restaurants to eat at, of which Hogar del Pensionista is one. Easy, simple, and affordable, expect classic Spanish tapas and paellas.
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 22:00 daily (closed on Thursdays).

For a unique lodging option in Blanca, look toward the Calblanca Casa Rural. This beautiful apartment features smooth, white stone walls, cozy interiors, and a private pool and spa as well. An idyllic and peaceful retreat for your stay in the valley.
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