Discover the Palm Grove of Elche: Three Routes to Lose Yourself in History, Nature, and Tradition

The Palmeral de Elche is much more than just a forest of palm trees. It is a living witness to the Andalusian heritage, a cultural landscape that has endured for centuries and a jewel recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. To walk through it is to lose yourself in the history, tradition and natural beauty of this municipality, located in the south of the Region of Valencia. To discover it in the best way possible, we suggest three routes that will take you to places full of charm and authenticity.

1. Palm Grove Route: A Walk Through Its Historical Essence

If you want to understand the original structure of this Andalusian agricultural system, the Palm Grove Route is the best starting point. Stroll among palm trees and irrigation channels, following the layout of the historic orchards that have shaped this unique landscape.

The San Plácido Orchard, The Palm Grove Museum, and The White Palm Handicraft Workshop: At the museum, discover the history and cultivation techniques of this ecosystem through interactive exhibits and workshops. In the White Palm handcraft Workshop, you can watch artisans weave the palms used in the Palm Sunday procession. At the orchard, observe the characteristic layout of the Palm Grove, and, with prior booking, witness a palm tree caretaker ascend up to 20 meters high to harvest dates and prune the trees.

Huerto del Cura Garden: Don’t miss the iconic Imperial Palm, named in honor of Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria, who visited in 1894. This natural wonder is over 170 years old and features a trunk with seven arms growing out of it.

Hort dels Pontos and House Museum: A space that blends tradition and sustainability, with a house-museum showcasing how life in the Elche orchards used to be.

2. The Outstanding Palm Trees Route: A Journey Through 18 Remarkable Palm Trees

This route highlights 18 unique palm trees distinguished by their history, shape, or natural beauty. If you are a nature enthusiast and fascinated by botanical curiosities, this route is for you.

If you walk the route, remember to wear comfortable shoes.
If you enjoy cycling, you can complete the route on your own bike.
You can locate the palm trees on the route using the GPS coordinates provided with each description.

3. The Palm Grove Trail (PR-CV 439)

This short-distance trail revolves around the date palm tree. Throughout most of the route, you will remain connected to the historic Palm Grove of Elche, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Besides this impressive natural setting, you can also enjoy the city’s monuments, traditional houses and orchards, the local industry, watchtowers, and a medieval fortress.

Walk along the paths between the traditional orchards, letting the shade of the palm trees guide you through an atmosphere of absolute tranquility.
Observe the flora and fauna of the Palm Grove, where you will find native species and a perfectly adapted Mediterranean oasis ecosystem.
Enjoy the sunset among the palm trees—an image that will be etched in your memory as the best souvenir of your visit to Elche.

Don’t Miss the Views from These Palm Grove Lookout Points:

Bell Tower of the Basilica of Santa María
Terrace of the Calahorra Tower
Vaillo Tower
Railway Bridge
Bimillenary Bridge

The Palm Grove Awaits You

Exploring the Palm Grove of Elche is much more than just tourism. It is about connecting with history, admiring the beauty of a unique landscape, and feeling the soul of a city that has preserved its essence for centuries. Which of these routes will be the first on your list? Choose your path and let yourself be amazed by the magic of the Palm Grove!