Elche palm grove and Huerto del Cura
- Driving time
- About 40 minutes by car
- Area
- Baix Vinalopó
- Sight
The Palmeral of Elche is Europe's largest palm grove and a UNESCO site, and the Huerto del Cura garden is about a 40 minute drive from Lago Rosa Apartment.
Elche has something no other European city has: row upon row of date palms, right among the buildings. The Palmeral joined the World Heritage list in 2000. The Museo del Palmeral explains where the grove came from and what it means to the city, and on request a palm climber shows how it is done.
The best-known garden is the Huerto del Cura, a private garden declared a National Artistic Garden in 1943. You walk among centuries-old palms, ponds and plant collections from the Mediterranean and beyond. The star is the Imperial Palm, with several trunks growing from one base. It is named after Empress Sisi, who visited the garden.
Elche is also home to the Basílica de Santa María, where the medieval Misteri d'Elx is performed in August, also recognised by UNESCO.
Our tip: combine it
The regional guided route through the Huerto, the Basílica and the museums takes about four hours. If you prefer to wander on your own, start in the Parque Municipal.
Times and tickets
For current times and prices, see huertodelcura.com, or call 965 451 936.
With children
Pair a morning of palms with Río Safari, which is between Elche and Santa Pola.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Palmeral of Elche a UNESCO site?
It is Europe's largest palm grove and a remarkable historic cultural landscape. It has been a World Heritage Site since 2000.
What is the Imperial Palm?
An old palm with several trunks in the Huerto del Cura, named after Empress Sisi.
