Imagine walking under the shade of thousands of palm trees, listening to the murmur of water flowing through ancient irrigation ditches, and suddenly coming upon a mill that’s stood since the 10th century. That’s Elche for you: a place where nature and history don’t just coexist, they intertwine on every trail.
If you’re looking for a different kind of experience, far from traditional tourist circuits, this route is for you. There’s no rush here—just trails that invite you to slow down and discover the secrets this city has preserved for centuries.
From the majestic Historic Palm Grove to the impressive dam at Elche Reservoir, we’ve put together a journey full of photo-worthy landscapes, surprising architectural details, and the feeling that you’ve stumbled upon something truly special.
Be sure to save this for your next tourism in Elche escape—this nature route is one of those hidden gems that not everyone knows about… but everyone should experience.
Historic Palm Grove Route of Elche (PR-CV 439)
Our first adventure takes us to the green heart of the city: the Palm Grove of Elche, the largest palm forest in Europe with over 200,000 trees.
This circular short-distance route (PR-CV 439) is very easy—perfect for all fitness levels. It covers about 10 flat kilometers that can be walked in around 2.5 hours at a leisurely pace.
The terrain combines dirt paths between palm groves and a few short urban stretches to connect orchards, all well-marked with the white-yellow signs of PR trails.
Throughout the route, you’ll be surrounded by date palms—the true stars of this walk.
In fact, this was the first certified trail in Elche created to enjoy the Historic Palm Grove, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000—a true point of pride for tourism in Elche!
Where to start? The ideal starting point is near the Congress Center, right in the city center. From there, you quickly enter the Hort dels Pontos, an old palm grove where you’ll find the city’s oldest rural house (19th century).
Walking among these groves feels like stepping back in time: the plots are laid out with the irrigation network designed by the Arabs over a thousand years ago, when they founded the “new city” and created this agricultural oasis.
You’ll pass by orchards with curious names (Hort del Sol, San Plácido, el Xocolater), crossing palm-lined plots that form perfect grids when seen from above.
At every step, you’ll feel the spirit of tourism in Elche, where nature and human ingenuity have coexisted harmoniously for centuries.
A must-stop photo spot is the Torre de Vaíllo, a medieval watchtower from the early 16th century that rises among the palms.
From its base—or even from the top if it’s open to visitors—you get a panoramic view of the Palm Grove: imagine a green sea of swaying fronds with the silhouette of the Basilica of Santa María in the distance—a true postcard scene!
You’ll also pass traditional orchard houses like Casa del Hort de la Rinconà or Casa de los Bacores, showcasing the typical architecture of the Elche countryside.
Each one tells a story: whitewashed walls, ancient wells, and dates drying in the sun by the entrance. A local guide would share anecdotes at every stop—from how palms are manually pollinated to legends surrounding the Palm Grove.
The trail continues north through the eastern orchard network and loops back south. The best part? It combines nature and heritage—not just palm trees, but glimpses of the historic city center.
Near the Municipal Park area, the trail borders the Vinalopó River. Take a break on a shaded bench—the beauty surrounding you demands it.
Just nearby, you’ll spot the Molí del Real, which we’ll explore in the next route, along with the Altamira Palace and the Basilica of Santa María a few steps beyond.
Feel like a cultural detour? Visit the Archaeological Museum inside the palace or explore the Basilica’s spectacular Baroque interior. But if you prefer to stay on the green path, keep walking among the palms.
Crossing into the southern groves, you’ll find orchards like Hort de la Tia Casimira and Hort de Monjo, approaching the circular trail’s end.
You might pass other travelers—or even locals jogging under the palms—all enjoying tourism in Elche in an active, healthy way.
Where to snap the best photo? It’s hard to choose!
Try next to a centuries-old palm with a thick trunk (some are over 300 years old), or by a water splitter in the canal framed by palm fronds, capturing the bond between water and trees.
And of course, if you walk at sunset, the golden light filtering through the dates creates a magical atmosphere.
Useful tips: This route is easy and well-marked with information posts (panels explain the Palm Grove’s history and irrigation system).
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and water—especially in summer. While you’ll be shaded most of the time, the Mediterranean sun is strong.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas (like the Municipal Park), but please respect the environment and don’t leave trash.
If you want to dive deeper, visit the Palm Grove Museum (located in the San Plácido orchard at the start/end of the trail) to learn how palms are cultivated and used, including the tradition of white palm weaving for Palm Sunday.
Without a doubt, this Historic Palm Grove route is essential in any serious tourism in Elche plan—a living heritage landscape where the past and present meet beneath the fronds.
Elche Reservoir Trail: From the Molí del Real to the Historic Dam
Ready for something more adventurous? Follow the water’s path along the Environmental Trail to the Elche Reservoir.
This natural route connects the city to the old Vinalopó River dam, leading you from the Molí del Real (in town) to the historic reservoir, through riverbank groves, old irrigation ditches, and canyon landscapes.
The full round-trip is about 14 km (7 km each way).
It’s of moderate difficulty due only to the distance—the path itself is easy and well-signposted.
Traveling with kids or want a shorter walk? You can start halfway or turn back early, doing 5–6 km total.
Be flexible! But bring good walking shoes and water—here the path leaves the city and becomes dirt trail, sometimes rocky, with wooden bridges crossing the river.
We begin at the Molí del Real, a fascinating water mill. Imagine a flour mill whose origins date back to the 10th century (Islamic Caliphate), though the current structure was built in the 18th century.
It’s right by the Acequia Mayor irrigation canal—the same one that feeds the Palm Grove and made farming in Elche possible.
At the base, you can still hear the trickling water that once powered the millstones.
The mill served all local farmers as a maquila mill (they paid in flour for its use).
Today it belongs to the city council and houses the Elche Fine Arts Association. On Sundays it opens to visitors—don’t miss the chance to go inside!
Architecturally, admire its western facade: a series of stone buttresses and semi-circular arches that resemble a mini aqueduct—a postcard-perfect scene by the river.
From the Molí, the trail descends to the Vinalopó River. The first stretch runs alongside the acequia, passing through farmland and riverbank vegetation.
Soon, urban noise fades: birdsong and rustling reeds take over.
A few minutes in, you’ll see the Pont de l’Arquet, a small historic aqueduct, and next to it, the famous Palmera de los Siete Brazos.
This palm has seven tall offshoots growing from a single trunk—like a natural candelabra.
A photo here is a must! Legend says Empress Sissi admired this tree in 1894. Whether true or not, you’ll be amazed standing beneath its many arms.
We continue along the dry riverbed (usually dry enough to walk on). The trail zigzags across the banks, using wooden bridges for safe crossings.
It’s fun to switch sides—one moment among reeds, the next beneath rocky cliffs.
You’ll pass old stone bridges like the Puente de Barrachina, offering scenic views of distant palms and the winding river.
As we progress (the path stays mostly flat), nature takes over. It’s hard to believe the city is so close.
You might see mountain bikers or hiking families—another way to enjoy tourism in Elche through its wilder side.
After ~1.5 hours, you’ll reach the dam: a 22-meter curved stone wall nestled in a canyon. This is Europe’s oldest arch dam.
Built between 1632 and 1655, it was first used in 1672. Restored after flood damage in 1793 and again in the 2000s, it still stands today.
Look around: palm trees, rushes, and birds—ducks, herons, even flamingos. Sometimes otters upstream!
Climb the rock-hewn stairs to the top (use the handrail!) and you’ll find the ruins of the pantanero’s house (the old dam keeper).
A floating walkway lets you cross the reservoir—a magical moment with ducks swimming below.
Further along is the Deviation Canal, built to reroute salty water.
Take a breath here: this is a protected natural area and ecological gem.
Photos? Try standing atop the dam, framing the wall on one side and the river valley on the other. Or aim your lens at the still water reflecting palms and sky.
On the way back, consider a shaded picnic spot near the Seven-Armed Palm—just don’t leave litter!
Back at the Molí del Real, end your journey with a cultural stop—peek inside if it’s open or rest at the nearby park café with a well-earned ice cream.
This reservoir trail perfectly illustrates how tourism in Elche blends nature and history: you’ve followed an Andalusian canal, walked under wild palms, and ended at a Renaissance dam.
Private Tours: Nature + History in Elche
Would you prefer to explore these spots with a private guide? No problem!
There are private tours available that combine nature and heritage—perfect to get the most out of your visit.
Most start around €70 per person for small groups, with higher-end options for couples or custom itineraries.
Check language availability (many offer English/Spanish), and what’s included: transport, entrances, meals…
A good tour blends palm groves, local history, and insider stories—like secret photo spots or the best glazed dates in town!
Final Thoughts
Elche is a city that sparks curiosity thanks to its rare mix of nature and history. Few places boast a palm forest in the middle of the city, plus thousand-year-old mills and historic dams nearby.
Whether you explore these trails on your own or with a local guide, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time under the palm shade and beside whispering waters.
With every step, tourism in Elche becomes a journey of learning: how an oasis was engineered, how mills fed generations, how cultural heritage still thrives.
I hope these routes inspire you to discover Elche with curious eyes and an adventurous heart.
And remember, I’ll be here—as your imaginary local guide—cheering every time you marvel at a new landscape or hidden story.
Happy travels in Elche, the city of palms and well-kept secrets!