Looking for a day out from your home at La Manga Club? Visit the Ricote Valley and Cieza

If you are enjoying the privacy and comfort of your home at La Manga Club, you already appreciate the exceptional lifestyle this exclusive resort in the Murcia Region offers. But when you’re ready to explore further afield, there is an inland escape well worth discovering: the Ricote Valley and Cieza. Just 90 minutes away by car, this beautiful destination offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a wealth of cultural and natural attractions.

Often referred to as “Murcia’s oasis,” the Ricote Valley feels like something out of a storybook. Its lush vegetation, fertile orchards, and the gentle flow of the River Segura create an idyllic setting that changes with the seasons. A short distance away, the historic town of Cieza is equally compelling, especially during its famed flowering season, one of the most spectacular natural events in south-east Spain.

Easy to get there from La Manga Club

Reaching the Ricote Valley and Cieza is both simple and scenic. Travel via the AP-7 motorway, connecting to the A-30 towards Murcia, and you will arrive in around an hour and a half. Along the way, you pass coastal stretches, farmland, and rolling hills — a visual prelude to the natural beauty that awaits. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend break, the Ricote Valley and Cieza are ready to welcome you.

Unmissable activities in the Ricote Valley and Cieza

This inland gem is a perfect complement to coastal living, offering a rich mix of outdoor pursuits, heritage experiences, and authentic local cuisine. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

1. Explore the villages of the Ricote Valley

The valley is home to a collection of charming villages, each with its own story and appeal. Archena is a perfect stop owing to its famous thermal spa. The narrow avenues of Blanca are enchanting, as as its Moorish heritage and hilltop castle. Ojós, Abarán, Ricote and Villanueva del Río Segura offer scenic lookouts, traditional architecture, and local character in abundance, as well as beautiful views.

2. Embrace the outdoors: hiking, cycling and adventure sports

Nature enthusiasts can explore a variety of walking and cycling trails, with the Segura River Trail among the most popular for its spectacular riverside views. In Cieza, kayakers can paddle through the dramatic Almadenes Canyon, a stunning natural gorge that has the perfect mix of dramatic landscapes and active adventure.

3. Explore archaeology and ancient cave art

For those with a passion for history, Cieza is home to La Serreta, a remarkable archaeological site that includes prehistoric cave paintings registered with UNESCO. In the centre of Cieza, the Siyâsa Museum offers a glimpse into the life of a medieval Islamic settlement, and a fascinating chapter in the region’s past.

4. Witness the spectacular flowering season

Visit in late February or early March to experience Cieza’s Floración de Cieza, a breathtaking natural phenomenon when peach, apricot, and other fruit trees bloom in pink and white, transforming the landscape into a painter’s dream. Guided tours are available through local providers. Booking in advance is recommended, as this unique seasonal display is a popular event.

5. Savour the local cuisine

The Ricote Valley and Cieza are also a delight for food lovers. Local bars and restaurants serve traditional dishes such as zarangollo (a courgette and egg dish), migas (fried breadcrumbs with meat), and arroz con conejo (rice with rabbit), all made with fresh, local produce. And don’t leave Cieza without trying its famous peaches, considered among the most prized in Spain.

This corner of inland Murcia provides far more than just a pretty view; it offers a rich and rewarding experience. From scenic drives and historical treasures to outdoor exploration and authentic gastronomy, the Ricote Valley and Cieza invite you to slow down, reconnect, and explore a different side of the region.

Your home at La Manga Club is more than just a journey — it’s a lifestyle investment in wellbeing, culture, and discovery.