The Climate and about the general area:
The climate and temperature are an invitation to sunbathe, have a swim in the hot-spring water swimming pool or simply to stroll about the gardens on the bank of the River Segura.
The luxuriant vegetation made up of palm, orange, and lemon trees and tropical plants along with the colours of the flowers create a cheerful and relaxing atmosphere.
The Ricote Valley was the last Moorish redoubt in Spanish Levante. This is one of the most beautiful and undiscovered parts of the fertile irrigated plains around the River Segura. The towns of Ricote, Ojós, Abarán, Blanca, Ulea, Villanueva del Segura and Archena, surrounded by fruit and citrus orchards, transport us to an ideal world. A fertile plain that clings to its Arab heritage, as shown by the numerous remains from this period, including its irrigation systems.
Ricote maintains a rich gastronomical tradition in which the local wine is the protagonist. Blanca has retained its legacy as a producer of esparto grass.
Outdoor Activities:
For those who enjoy the outdoor life Spa Valley is an ideal choice. You can enjoy the countryside by cycling,walking,mountain climbing or the many activities connected with the lovely river segura. The town of Archena is typically Spanish with lovely friendly people. It is the real Spain and if you have a sprinkling of Spanish all the better as the locals love to interact with the visitors.
Food is very cheap, you can live in the area for a fraction of what you will spend in the big cities.
For those who like to Ski you are only a 2.5 hour drive to the Sierrra Nevada ski resort.
You can visit the City of Murcia which is only a short drive away. In Murcia you can find Cathedral de Santa Maria. Finished in the 15th century the cathedral is the most impressive monument of Murcia. The city is divided by the Segura River and is known for its beautiful Baroque Cathedral, Almudi Palace and the castle of Monteagudo (where the Arab influence can be well appreciated ).
Visit Calasparra:
For centuries, a natural cavern carved out by the River Segura, some 5 km from the town of Calasparra has been home to the Virgen de la Esperanza or Our Lady of Hope. According to legend, the small religious image was found inside the cave by a shepherd seeking refuge. When the religious authorities from Calasparra tried to move the carving to one of the churches in the town, the image became extraordinarily heavy in relation to its size. This was taken to mean that the Virgin wished to be worshipped in her grotto. A larger, baroque sculpture was placed next to the original image (a small wood-carved bust of the Virgin Mary known as 'La Pequenica' or the 'Little One') and, according to documents found, both have been worshipped together, the small one at the feet of the larger one, since 1786.
This is a wonderful location to visit, it is so peaceful and serene and a great day out. The surrounding countryside is also beautiful and well worth taking a drive through.
