Birdwatching
Discover Elche, Alicante: Palm Grove, History, Gastronomy and Nature
Elche, a jewel in the crown of the province of Alicante, is not only known for its famous palm grove and its Misteri, declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, but also for its rich Iberian, Arab and Christian history, and with an enchanting culture and landscapes, offers a unique experience.
Enjoy its delicious gastronomy, such as the crust, the dates of Elche or its famous Mollar pomegranate, among others.
In addition, explore its nature in places like the Natural Park of El Hondo and the Salinas de Santa Pola.
Discover the authenticity of Elche in every corner! If you are ready to immerse yourself in the authenticity of this Mediterranean city, here are some tourist routes for you to explore and enjoy to the fullest.
A few metres from the north gate of El Hondo we enter a magnificent rural environment that forms part of the largest palm grove in Europe, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. e which was declared world heritage by the Unesco According to the season in which we are and depending on the time of year, we can enjoy watching the European Roller, a bird with colourful plumage that nests in the hollows of the palm trees. We will also be able to enjoy the presence of shrikes, Short-toed treecreeper, green woodpeckers, and perhaps a Collarde pratincole (canastera) or, why not, any other bird that is flying over the wetland in search of food or resting at that moment.
Join us on this birding adventure in the majestic palm grove by El Hondo and discover the incredible variety of birds that inhabit this unique natural oasis, all while enjoying a snack or picnic surrounded by lush vegetation!
Our day will start at the meeting point, where we will meet our experienced ornithological guide, who will accompany us throughout the tour and take us to discover the secrets of the birds that inhabit the area.
We will begin our tour by entering the impressive palm grove at the northern gate of El Hondo, a green paradise that is home to a great diversity of migratory and resident birds. With the help of our guide, we will observe birds such as herons, cormorants, hoopoes and many more, as we explore the nature trails that wind through the centuries-old palm trees.
Along the way, we will stop at several strategic observation points, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the palm grove and spot birds in their natural habitat. Our guide will share his knowledge of the local flora and fauna, as well as interesting facts about the birds we observe.
And to recharge our batteries, we will stop at a quiet spot to enjoy a delicious snack or picnic, where we will savour a selection of local products while we relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
At the end of the day, we will return to the starting point with a heart full of unforgettable memories and the satisfaction of having explored one of the most impressive places in the region.
Join us on this exciting ornithological expedition and discover the beauty of the palm grove in the company of experts! Book your place now and get ready to live an experience that will connect you with nature in a unique way - we are waiting for you to explore the world of birds together!
- Ornithological guide during the entire route.
- Snack or picnic.
- Personal insurance.
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer:to the meeting point or to the Natural Parc and back
-Etc.
Discover the beauty and rural essence of Elche in this authentic gastronomic experience in the heart of Camp d'Elx, a world of tradition and authenticity that will leave you fascinated.
Elche has a unique rural setting, where pomegranate, citrus and vegetable orchards alternate with palm orchards and the occasional vineyard.This environment allows you to live a rural experience a few kilometres away from the most industrial centre, which will make you feel the most authentic essence.
We suggest you start with a visit to an olive oil mill, El Tendre, a true treasure of the Baix Vinalopó region and a symbol and reference of the rich olive-growing tradition of the region, as it is the oldest in the whole region. Let yourself be seduced by the aroma and flavour of the oldest extra virgin olive oil in the area, while you discover the secrets of its centenary production.
But the experience does not end here. After tasting their oil, we discover another surprise: could you imagine that Elche used to produce wine? At Bodegas Faelo, you will discover the history of wine in the region and learn how this precious elixir is made in a traditional way, how it has been produced for centuries and how Bodegas Faelo continues to do it now in almost the same way. Enjoy their wines while tasting typical products.
At the end of the visit, enjoy their wines while tasting local products from the countryside of Elche, in a restaurant located between orchards and fields.
After recharging our batteries, we will head to the Museum of Pusol, a true cultural treasure in the middle of the countryside, recognised by UNESCO for its invaluable contribution to the preservation of the local ethnographic tradition. The great recognition for the work and years dedicated to this community-based, open and participatory project came in 2009, when UNESCO inscribed the Centre of Traditional Culture School Museum of Puçol in the Register of Good Practices for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming since then the Third World Heritage Site of Elche. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Elche as you explore exhibitions and workshops that reveal the secrets of rural and urban life in the region.
We are waiting for you to explore the countryside of Elche together!
"Bon profit".
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer:to the meeting point or to the place of visit and back
-Etc.
Tabarca is the first marine reserve declared in Spain, and the only one in the Valencian Community. Just 4km from the cape of Santa Pola, it is a perfect enclave for the observation of marine birds, with a resident population of shag. Waders are easily spotted here and it is worth mentioning the use of the island by passerine birds on their migrations.
Embark on an exciting birding adventure on the stunning island of Tabarca and discover the diversity of birds that inhabit this natural paradise, all while enjoying a round trip boat trip from the coast of Santa Pola!
Our day will begin in the port of Santa Pola, where we will meet up to board a boat (Tabarquera) that will take us across the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean to the enchanting island of Tabarca. During the trip, we will have the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline and perhaps spot some seabirds in flight.
Upon arrival at Tabarca, our expert ornithological guide will accompany us throughout the route and introduce us to the fascinating world of the birds that inhabit the island. With his specialised knowledge, we will explore the different habitats of Tabarca, from its picturesque coves to its dense pine forests, in search of a wide variety of migratory and resident bird species.
Throughout the tour, our guide will point out strategic observation points where we will be able to spot birds such as terns, gulls, shearwaters and many more, while we enjoy the natural beauty of the island and its marine environment.
And to recharge our batteries, we will enjoy a well-deserved rest with a delicious picnic in an idyllic setting, surrounded by the peaceful Mediterranean landscape and the singing of birds.
At the end of the route, we will return to the port of Alicante in our boat, taking with us unforgettable memories of a day full of nature, adventure and ornithological discoveries.
Join us on this exciting ornithological expedition and discover the magic of the island of Tabarca in the company of experts! Book your place now and get ready to live an experience that will connect you with nature in a unique way, we are waiting for you to explore the world of birds together!
- Ornithological guide during the entire route.
- Boat to Tabarca roundtrip.
- Personal insurance.
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer: to the meeting point
-Etc.
Embark on an exciting adventure of active tourism and nature in the Clot de Galvany, where history merges with natural beauty. Discover the secrets of the Clot de Galvany on a guided tour that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity. Explore the Civil War bunkers, silent witnesses to a tumultuous past, and immerse yourself in the region's history. For a dose of aquatic fun, enjoy an exciting paddle surfing activity in the area's crystal clear waters - get ready for an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, history and nature in a single day!
Visit the Clot de Galvany, an ecological enclave of great value. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will be able to observe an incredible diversity of birds in their natural habitat. From flamingos to grey herons, this is the perfect place for ornithology and nature lovers.
We will start with a visit to the Clot de Galvany where we can find several bird observatories, old bunkers from the civil war, a Reception and Interpretation Center and trails that can take us directly to the beaches of Elche to enjoy the dunes and pine forests that reach almost to the seashore and that makes them unique in the Mediterranean coast. In the area there is also a free beach and a water sports center where we can perform activities in the sea.
Cultural Visit to the Civil War Bunkers
Travel back in time with our cultural visit to the Civil War bunkers. Discover the hidden history of these fortifications and learn about the events that marked the region. Our guides will tell you fascinating stories and historical facts that will transport you to a bygone era.
Nautical Activity: Paddle Surf
Complete your day with an exciting nautical activity. Enjoy Paddle Surfing in the calm waters near Clot de Galvany. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner or an expert, our activity is designed for all levels. It is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the natural environment from a different perspective.
- Visit to Clot de Galvany
- Cultural visit of the bunkers of the civil war
- Realization of nautical activity (paddle surf)
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer: to the meeting point or to the place of visit and back (Roundtrip shuttle)
Embark on a unique journey through the history, culture and tradition of Elche and discover three heritage treasures!
We will begin the route by visiting and exploring the magical Huerto del Cura, a private garden that houses not only the emblematic "Imperial Palm", a unique spectacle of nature as it is a specimen of a palm tree with several arms, but also an extensive representation of Mediterranean plants.
A few metres away is the Palm Grove Museum, located in a traditional house in a typical palm grove orchard. The museum reveals the origins, history, development and culture of the palm grove, helping the visitor to understand the reasons for its distinction as a World Heritage Site. In addition, the museum has a white palm workshop and a palm tree worker (palm tree trimmer) can give you a demonstration of how to climb the palm trees, how to work with them, etc. (on request). Discover the secrets of the largest palm grove in Europe at the Palm Grove Museum, where you will be amazed by the ancient art of working with the white palm and enjoy a unique demonstration by our expert palmereros (palm tree trimmers)!
We will continue visiting the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria, an impressive example of baroque architecture built on the foundations of an ancient Muslim mosque and inside which is staged the Misteri d'Elx, a cultural and religious event that recreates the Dormition, Assumption and Coronation of the Virgin Mary... (Ordinary performances in August 11-15 August and Extraordinary performances in October and November (only on even years). Here, every corner breathes history and every stone tells a story. So let yourself be captivated by the beauty of this sacred place and witness the live staging of the Misteri d'Elx, an experience that will leave you speechless.
And to put the finishing touch to our experience, nothing better than ending the route with a pleasant and relaxing walk through the charming Municipal Park, where we can visit the old Molí Real, a real treasure of the 18th century that worked with the energy of a waterfall of the Acequia Mayor. There we can discover a multitude of peculiar palm trees and other interesting vegetation that make up this beautiful orchard.
The Pusol School Museum deserves a separate visit. It is an educational-museum project that has been developed since 1968 in the unitary school of the rural district of Puçol, in Elche (Alicante). Its main activity is the education of schoolchildren using local heritage and culture as educational resources, while preserving and enhancing these resources through its museum work. A unique experience that will leave you wanting more!
The great recognition for the work and years dedicated to this community, open and participatory project came in 2009, when UNESCO inscribed the Centre of Traditional Culture School Museum of Pusol in the Register of Good Practices for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, becoming since then the Third World Heritage Site of Elche. That same year it was awarded the Special Mention for Education, Training and Awareness of Cultural Heritage in the Europa Nostra awards and the Generalitat Valenciana awarded it the Medal of Cultural Merit. In 2011, Elche City Council awarded the project the Bimil-lenari Medal for its long and successful trajectory. The intense interest in this project in Latin America materialised in 2014 with the award of the 1st Ibero-American Prize for Education and Museums, granted by Ibermuseos. The most recent recognition is the one received by the Integral System of Tourism Quality in Destination (SICTED) of the Ministry of Tourism, in 2016.
Book our route "Elche, three World Heritage Sites" and get ready for a truly unforgettable experience that will take you to the roots of Elche's history and culture!
- Visit to the Huerto del Cura.
- Visit to the palm grove’s museum
- Visit to the Museo de la Fiesta
- Visit to Santa Maria’s Basilica (abide by religious activity and acts)(outside Mass (prayer) times)
- Visit to the local park
- Guide during the entire visit
The following services are abide by definitive confirmation by Avanzatour, otherwise an alternative will be included:
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer: to the meeting point or to the place of visit and back (Roundtrip shuttle.)
-Etc.
The Lady of Elche is one of the most famous sculptures in the world and the ultimate artistic manifestation of the Iberian culture. Visiting the place where it was created, hidden and found more than 22 centuries later, is an amazing experience. Our route will take you to explore the Alcudia Archaeological Site with an interpreted visit, where you will unravel the mysteries of this iconic historical figure.
Come to the Alcudia Archaeological Site. There, in a magnificent interpretation center, the Lady herself accompanies the visitor to discover the most important corners of her former home, show him the exact place where she appeared, to relive the excitement of those who were there on August 4, 1897.
Once the visit is over, the best thing to do is to recharge your batteries in one of the restaurants in the countryside of Elche, tasting an authentic local menu to continue discovering more secrets of the enigmatic sculpture. Enjoy the exquisite typical food of Elche!
And after lunch, immerse yourself in the history of Elche with a visit to the Archaeological and History Museum of Elche (MAHE) that allows us to continue discovering how the city evolved from the time of the Lady to the present day.
Before leaving, say goodbye to the town by strolling through the charming historic center in a picturesque tourist train to finish discovering the town.
A cultural and gastronomic experience that will transport you back in time and leave you in awe! Discover the fascinating history of the Dama de Elche with us!
- Visit to the Archaeological Site of La Alcudia
- Typical ilicitana food in a restaurant at Camp d'Elx
- Entrance to the Archaeological and History Museum of Elche
- Travel by tourist train through the historical center of Elche
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer: to the meeting point or to the place of visit and back (Roundtrip shuttle)
-Etc.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will delight your senses and immerse you in the authentic flavours of Elche! During this route, we will explore the rich culinary tradition of the region, from extra virgin olive oil to artisanal wines.
The first destination is the Almazara El Tendre, a real treasure of the Bajo Vinalopó region and the oldest olive oil mill in the area. Here, we will witness the production process of extra virgin olive oil, from the harvesting of the olives to their pressing and bottling. Discover the secrets of this golden liquid that has been an integral part of Mediterranean culture for centuries.
Afterwards, we will head to Bodegas Faelo, where we will be welcomed by an oenology expert who will guide us through a fascinating journey through the world of wine. The Bodega is located in a typical house of the Campo de Elche, or "faeneta", with more than a hundred years of history; where the grapes are still trodden in the "afollaor", as grandfather Rafael "Faelo" started to do in 1930. There we will learn about the local grape varieties, the winemaking process and the art of wine tasting. Immerse yourself in the aromas and flavours of Bodegas Faelo's handcrafted wines, each with their own unique history and character.
But the experience doesn't end there, get ready for a tasting of delicious local products that will perfectly complement the wine experience!
Join us on this gastronomic adventure and discover the authentic flavours of Elche that have captivated generations. Come and delight your senses on the Flavours of Elche Route!
Everything that is not indicated in the section on services included, such as:
-Transfer: to the meeting point or to the place of visit and back (Roundtrip shuttle)
-Etc.
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