Need to Know About Murcia
Located off the beaten tourist track in eastern Spain, Murcia is the perfect place to enjoy an authentic Spanish experience. Although it is less touristy than some other Spanish cities, Murcia has so much to offer visitors. The city has some great shopping and an impressive food scene where you can indulge in Spanish classics, such as tapas and paella. But the true beauty lies outside of the city. When you hire a campervan in Murcia, the options on where you can explore are endless. Within reach of the city, you can explore mountains, the Bullas wine region, and quiet coastal areas of Spain’s Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida. Murcia seems to move at a slower pace compared to other Spanish cities, making it a great place to begin your adventure through the country. Once you’ve spent some time exploring Murcia, head up the coast to Alicante and Valencia, down the coast to Almeria and Malaga, or further inland to explore the gorgeous countryside of Spain.
Things to Know About Hiring a Motorhome in Spain
There are a few requirements that must be met in order to rent a motorhome in Spain: you must be at least 21 years old, have a full driving license, and have a clean driving record for the prior year. Both Spanish and English-language driving licenses can be used while driving in Spain. If you have an English license, you won’t need to obtain a separate international driving permit.
Spain follows standard road rules like Australia, but reversed – cars drive on the right side of the road in Spain. When you are choosing a spot to stay for the night, make sure they allow campervans. Motorhomes are generally accepted at campsites and parking spaces that are designated for campervans. While travelling through rural Spain, you may also come across some farms and vineyards that welcome campervans.
Reasons to Hire Campervan in Murcia
• Travelling in a campervan can save you money versus staying in hotels and catching trains between cities.
• You’ll have the freedom to explore Spain on your terms. You don’t need to rely on the timetable of public transport or tour operators. You can also change your day-to-day travel plans without needing to worry about hotel or train bookings.
• You can tailor your road trip to be as basic or as luxurious as you would like depending on which campervan and campsites you choose. This can be changed based on your budget and travel preferences.
• You can visit places that are not easily accessible by public transport.
• You can wake up to a different view every day.
• Your journey around Spain will feel like a true adventure when you’re travelling by campervan.
Things to Do Around Murcia
Floridablanca Gardens
These peaceful gardens are located across the river from central Murcia. They are a favourite spot for locals who want to escape the city for a little while. The Floridablanca Gardens are the oldest public park in Murcia, having been a major landmark of the city since 1848. The park is particularly known for its old ficus trees, which offer a fairytale-like atmosphere. The Floridablanca Gardens are the perfect place to go for a lunchtime picnic or a peaceful walk in nature.
Monteagudo Castle
Monteagudo Castle is located about 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) northeast of Murcia. It was built in the year 825 AD and served as a fortification to protect the city of Murcia. The castle sits atop a large limestone hill and is topped with an commanding statue of Christ, which was added in the 1950s. While visitors aren’t able to enter the castle itself, you can get right up to the base of the castle where you can receive a gorgeous view up to the castle and statue on top.
Terra Natura Murcia
Terra Natura is a large zoo near Murcia that is highly focused on the conservation and welfare of animals. Rather than living in tight cages, Terra Natura’s animals have large open spaces that closely resemble their natural habitats. Several endangered species are cared for in Terra Natura, including the European lynx and the Iberian wolf. Lots of other animals from across the world can be observed here as well, such as zebras, giraffes, and lions. Terra Natura works hard to educate its visitors on animal conservation through talks and activities that are held throughout the day.
