Enchanting Elche
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Port
Alicante, Spain
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$94
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
The town of Elche, with its palm tree forest, boasts the highest concentration of palms in all of Europe. They number between 200,000 and 300,000, and the singular beauty of the Palmeral of Elche has earned the distinction of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Botanists believe that the Phoenicians planted this palm forest and that date palms have flourished in Elche for more than 2,000 years.
The municipal park will introduce you to the world of palms and the area's flora. Admire the abundant variety of Mediterranean species.
Visit the Baroque-style Basilica of St Mary, which houses the image of the city's patron saint.
The Huerto del Cura is an exotic garden that contains specimens of rare palm varieties — its great botanical diversity makes it the ideal place to stroll about and admire its luxuriant plants. The fountains and the main lake, placed right at the heart of the park, are all inspired by Arabian architectural styles. This area was occupied for centuries by the Moors.
Return to Alicante for a short visit to the Old Town en route back to the pier.
Notes:
The tour does not operate on Sundays. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water.