Located in southern Spain, Los Alcázares is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique experience. This charming destination is often overlooked by tourists flocking to more popular Spanish cities, but it has a wealth of attractions and activities to offer visitors. In this guide, we'll show you the top things to do and see in Los Alcázares and its surroundings. From historic sites to outdoor activities, we've got you covered.

Getting There

Before we dive into the exciting activities and attractions, let's cover the practicalities of getting to Alcazares and navigating the area.

Getting to Los Alcázares is easy and convenient. You can fly into Murcia International Airport, which is just 30 minutes away, and then take a taxi (€45-€55), bus (€6-€9), or private transfer service.

Alternatively, you can take a train to nearby cities like Murcia, Cartagena, or Torrevieja and then take a bus or taxi to Los Alcázares.

Taxis are also available from nearby cities to Los Alcázares.

Must-Visit Attractions in Los Alcazares

1. Ramí tower

Located in Los Alcázares, Murcia, the Ramí Tower is a historic watchtower that dates back to the 13th century. It was part of the surveillance system of the Mar Menor during the Muslim era and was later remodeled by the Christians. The tower is strategically located near the fortress of Ibn Mardanís, a ravine, and the Mar Menor, making it an ideal spot for hunting and fishing.

Conservation Status

The tower is in good condition, although it has undergone some transformations over the years. It is protected by the Spanish Historical Heritage Law and is open to the public 24 hours a day.

Location

The Ramí Tower is located in Los Alcázares, Murcia, opposite the Fire and Rescue Consortium of the Region of Murcia, on the N-332 road that connects Los Alcázares and Cartagena.

2. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

This old church in Los Alcázares is a beautiful spot near the sea. It's a great place to visit, especially during the celebration of the Virgin Mary. The church is surrounded by a charming town that comes alive with music and festivities during this time.

What to Expect

During the celebration, you can enjoy traditional music, a beautiful mass, and a stunning floral tribute. There's also a grand procession that takes place by sea and land, accompanied by the image of the Virgin. The day ends with a dazzling fireworks display.

The church opens only on Sundays from 12 pm to 1 pm.

3. Los Alcázares Airfield

Take a family-friendly tour to learn about the history of the Los Alcázares historical Airfield base, which began operating in 1915. The tour lasts 90 minutes and takes place on the last Saturday of every month at 10:00 a.m.

Tours take place on the last Saturday of every month at 10:00 a.m., departing from the main gate of the Base.

These tours are suitable for children aged 10 and up. After the tour, be sure to visit the Municipal Aeronautical Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history of the Los Alcázares Air Base.

After the tour, visit the Municipal Aeronautical Museum, which offers a journey through the history of the Los Alcázares Air Base.

4. Municipal Aeronautical Museum

Located next to the historic Los Alcázares airfield, this museum showcases a unique collection of military aviation history. With a focus on the Los Alcázares Air Base, the museum features exhibits on aircraft models, photographs, uniforms, helmets, and other artifacts.

The museum has three rooms, each with a distinct theme. The Central Hall features a permanent exhibit of over 300 photographs that tell the story of the Los Alcázares Air Base. The Side Rooms house a collection of objects related to the base's history, including aircraft models, uniforms, and plans.

Temporary Exhibitions and Activities

The museum occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions by local artists and offers guided tours and lecture series related to aviation.

Opening Hours and Admission

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Regular hours)
• Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Summer hours)
• Groups: Arrange a visit in advance to ensure availability.

Admission to the museum is free, making it a great destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs.

Exploring the Region

1. La Concha Beach

You can visit La Concha beach, located in the municipality of Los Alcázares, in the Region of Murcia.

You will find a range of amenities and services, including a marina at the Mar Menor Yacht Club, where you can enjoy nautical activities. You can also visit a replica of a traditional spa from the early 20th century, which showcases the region's rich history.

You will have access to night lighting, bicycle racks, and special facilities for people with disabilities.

You can also enjoy a range of refreshments and dining options at the beach bars and restaurants. La Concha beach is bordered to the north by Carrión beach, making it a great starting point for exploring the surrounding coastline.

2. Los Narejos

You can visit Los Narejos, a charming hamlet located on the shores of the Mar Menor, in the municipality of Los Alcázares.

Los Narejos began to grow in the 20th century, with urban developments and tourism infrastructure. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, with a variety of leisure and consumer establishments, such as the "Las Velas" Shopping Centre.

Landscape and Climate

Los Alcazares is dominated by the Mar Menor, a coastal lagoon with a unique climate and ecosystem. The area is known for its high salinity index, as well as its particular flora and fauna.

Festivals and Events

Los Narejos celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including the Patron Saint Festivities in honor of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, and the Festivities of Our Lady of the Angels. These events combine seafaring tradition with religious and recreational activities.

The town also offers a range of leisure activities, including nautical and sports tourism. The Nautical Club and the Infanta Cristina High Performance Centre are two of the main attractions in the area.

3. Carrión beach

Carrión beach is located in the municipality of Los Alcázares, on the shores of the Mar Menor. This urban beach has a range of services and facilities, including night lighting, bicycle racks, and special facilities for disabled people.

This beach is 600 meters long and 15 meters wide, making it a popular spot for visitors. The beach is located between Manzanares beach and La Concha beach, and has a promenade along its entire length.

Commemorative Monolith

Along the promenade, you can find a commemorative monolith that marks the boundary between the municipalities of Torre Pacheco and San Javier. This monolith was erected in 1983 to commemorate the segregation of the two municipalities.

Amenities

Carrión beach has a range of amenities, including beach bars, where you can enjoy a drink or snack while taking in the views of the Mar Menor. The beach has had a quality tourist rating for almost 20 years, making it a great destination for your next beach trip.

4. Espejo Beach

Espejo Beach is an urban beach that has services and is well-sheltered, with calm waters. It is located between Carril de las Palmeras avenue and the Plaza de la Pescadería, and is home to the "Monument to the fisherman".

The beach extends from Las Palmeras beach to Manzanares beach, and is crossed by a promenade.

Amenities

Espejo Beach has night lighting and spaces for sports activities, as well as beach bars and restaurants. The beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and offers a range of amenities to make your visit enjoyable.

Location

It is located in the municipality of Los Alcázares, and the beach is easily accessible by car or public transportation. This is a great destination for those looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

Day Trips from Alcazares

Alcazares is an ideal base for exploring the area's stunning natural beauty. With its proximity to Murcia City and other charming destinations, Alcazares offers a wealth of opportunities for exciting day trips. Here are some of the top destinations to consider:

1. Murcia City

Just a short drive from Alcazares, Murcia City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and gastronomy. The city's stunning cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, dominates the skyline, while the narrow streets of the old town are filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Be sure to visit the Murcia Cathedral Museum to learn more about the city's rich history and admire the beautiful architecture. After a day of exploring, indulge in the local cuisine, which features delicious dishes such as caldero (a hearty fish stew) and paparajote (a sweet, fried pastry).

Getting There: Murcia City is approximately 40 minutes from Alcázares by car, with regular bus services also available.

2. Cartagena

Another historic city within easy reach of Alcazares is Cartagena, which boasts a rich Roman and Moorish heritage.

Visit the Roman Theatre, a remarkably well-preserved ancient amphitheater, and explore the Concepción Castle, a 14th-century fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city.

Cartagena's old town is also filled with charming streets, shops, and restaurants, making it a great destination for a day trip.

Getting There: Cartagena is approximately 30 minutes from Alcázares by car. You can also find public transportation.

3. Sierra Espuña Natural Park

For those who love the great outdoors, Sierra Espuña Natural Park is a must-visit destination. Located just a short drive from Alcazares, the park offers a range of hiking trails, scenic views, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including the Iberian lynx.

Sierra Espuña Natural Park's stunning scenery and diverse flora and fauna make it a great destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Getting There: Sierra Espuña Natural Park is approximately 1 hour from Alcázares by car.

4. Cabo de Palos

Located on the southern tip of the Mar Menor, Cabo de Palos is a charming fishing village that's famous for its seafood restaurants and stunning beaches.

Visit the picturesque harbor, where you can watch fishermen unloading their catch, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many local restaurants.

The village's beautiful beaches and scenic coastal walks make it a great destination for a relaxing day trip.

Getting There: Cabo de Palos is approximately 30 minutes from Alcázares by car. You will also find other alternatives such as buses to get there.

5. La Manga del Mar Menor

La Manga del Mar Menor is a 22-kilometer strip of land that separates the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean Sea.

This unique destination offers a range of water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails.

Visit the picturesque villages of Los Alcázares and Los Urrutias, which offer a range of restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Getting There: La Manga del Mar Menor is approximately 30 minutes from Alcázares by car, with regular bus services also available.

Outdoor Activities

Alcázares is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities and trails to suit all interests and fitness levels. From hiking and walking to water sports and exploring the surrounding countryside, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.

Hiking Trails

The surrounding countryside offers numerous trails for hiking, including two popular routes that start in Alázares:

1. Walk through Los Alcázares

This scenic route begins at the Alcázares Air Barracks and follows the coastline to La Concha beach and Los Narejos beach.

The trail then joins the 10,000 Steps Route, a 4,250 km path that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. The route is easy to follow and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Walk through the Urban Area

This route takes you on a tour of Alcázares' urban area, passing by points of interest such as the Town Hall, various murals, and the Red Cistern. The route is approximately 4 km long and is a great way to explore the town's culture and history.

Biking in Alcázares

Alcázares offers a unique biking experience. With its scenic bike paths, picturesque countryside, and mild climate, it's the perfect destination to explore on two wheels.

Bike Rental Services in Alcázares

CostaBici, a local bike rental company, is conveniently located in Alcázares, providing easy access to bikes for visitors. Their services allow you to rent a bike and explore the town and surrounding countryside at your own pace.

Alcazares offers a range of facilities for cyclists, including:

• Scenic bike paths and routes
• Bike rental services, such as CostaBici
• Secure bike parking and storage
• Bike-friendly roads and infrastructure
• Explore Alcazares on Two Wheels

Water Sports

Alcázares is renowned for its exceptional water sports facilities and perfect climate, with 300 sunny days a year and an average temperature of 18°C. The Mar Menor is considered one of the best regatta courses in Europe, allowing for year-round water sports practice.

Nautical Activity Companies in Alcázares

Several nautical activity companies in Alcázares offer a range of services, including:

• Mar Menor Yacht Club: Dinghy sailing rentals and courses, kayak routes
• Charter Virazon: Sailboat rental with or without skipper, nautical training
• Animation and Adventure: Nautical activities for groups with accommodation, multi-activity nautical activities, summer camps
• Mar Acuatic Resort: Nautical activities for groups with accommodation, multi-activity nautical activities, summer camps
• Aloha Center: Kitesurfing and paddle surf rentals and courses
• Spinoza Center: Kitesurfing, paddle surf, wing foil, and windsurfing rentals and courses

Water Sports and Activities

Enjoy a range of water sports and activities in Alcázares, including:

• Sailing
• Kayaking
• Paddle surfing
• Kitesurfing
• Windsurfing
• Wing foil
• Beach games
• Summer camps
• Explore the Mar Menor

Discover the beauty of the Mar Menor and its surroundings by taking a boat tour or visiting the nearby beaches and coves. Alcázares offers a range of tourist activities, including:

• Guided tours
• Boat tours
• Cultural routes
• Water sports
• Beach activities

Golfing

The Region of Murcia is an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts. Alcázares is home to the La Serena Golf Course, a professional 18-hole golf course designed by Manuel Piñero.

La Serena Golf Course

The La Serena Golf Course is a challenging and enjoyable course, with flat terrain and water obstacles.

The course enjoys a unique microclimate, with a sea breeze that guarantees ideal temperatures throughout the year. It features wide, undulating greens and the most notable feature is that it can be played next to the sea.

Amenities and Accommodations

The Senator Mar Menor Golf and Spa Resort is an exclusive hotel located near the golf course, offering 174 apartments equipped with air conditioning, safe, flat-screen satellite TV, telephone, and desk.

The resort features an outdoor swimming pool with slides, a gym, and a spa center with health and beauty treatments.

The Senator Mar Menor Golf and Spa Resort is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing holiday, with its beautiful golf course, spa center, and outdoor swimming pool.

Festivals and Events

1. Fiestas de la Vendimia

One of the most popular events in the town is the Fiestas de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival), which takes place in September. This annual celebration honors the grape harvest season with wine tastings, live music, and traditional dancing.

Local wine producers showcase their best wines, accompanied by traditional tapas and local cuisine, making it a perfect opportunity to experience the region's rich gastronomy.

2. Fiestas de San Pedro

In June, the town celebrates Fiestas de San Pedro (St. Peter's Festival), a festival honoring the town's patron saint. The festivities include processions, fireworks, and traditional food, making it a lively and colorful event.

Visitors can enjoy the town's festive atmosphere and participate in the traditional events, which are a great way to experience the local culture.

3. Murcia Jazz Festival

In the nearby city of Murcia, the Murcia Jazz Festival takes place in July, featuring live performances by local and international jazz musicians in various venues across the region.

This popular festival showcases a diverse range of jazz styles, from traditional to modern and experimental, and is a must-visit for jazz enthusiasts.

In addition to the live performances, the festival also offers workshops and masterclasses, providing a unique opportunity for music lovers to learn from the experts.

4. Holy Week

During Holy Week, Alcazares celebrates Semana Santa (Holy Week), a week-long celebration featuring processions, parades, and traditional events.

5. Tapas Festival

Foodies will love the Tapas Festival (Festival de Tapas) in September, which showcases the region's delicious small plates, and the Murcia Gastronomy Festival (Festival Gastronómico de Murcia) in November, which celebrates the region's rich gastronomy with cooking demonstrations, food stalls, and wine tastings.

Gastronomy

Los Alcázares' gastronomy is characterized by its rich variety of seafood, delicious local wines, and traditional dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage.

1. Seafood

Being a coastal town, Los Alcázares is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly in the nearby towns of Cabo de Palos. The town's seafood is characterized by its freshness and variety, with popular options including mussels, prawns, and seafood paella.

Visitors can enjoy seafood at one of the many local restaurants, which often offer a range of seafood dishes, from traditional to modern creations.

2. Local Wines

The Murcia region is home to several wine denominations, including the Jumilla and Yecla wines. These wines are known for their quality and are often paired with local dishes, such as seafood and traditional stews.

You can sample these wines at local wine bars or wineries, which offer a range of wine tastings and tours.

3. Traditional Dishes

Los Alcázares' gastronomy is also characterized by its traditional dishes, which showcase the region's culinary heritage. Some popular local specialties include:

• Caldero: A hearty fish stew made with a variety of fish and seafood, including mussels, prawns, and fish, all cooked in a flavorful broth.
• Zarangollo: A courgette and egg dish that is often served as a side or appetizer. The dish is made with sautéed courgettes, eggs, and sometimes ham or chorizo.
• Paparajote: A sweet, deep-fried dessert made with lemon leaves and typically served with a sweet syrup or honey.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Los Alcázares is also known for its delicious pastries and sweets, such as the Paparajote de Lemon, a sweet, deep-fried dessert made with lemon leaves, and the Torta de Aceite, a sweet, crispy pastry made with olive oil.

Conclusion

Alcázeres and the surrounding region of Murcia are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty and outdoor pursuits, this captivating destination has something for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an action-packed adventure, or a cultural immersion, Alcázares is the perfect destination for your next Spanish getaway. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the charm of this incredible region for yourself?

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