Alhama (al-AH-mah) has been a spa town since Roman times. The thermal waters still flow today, and the town sits at the gateway to the Sierra Espuna mountains. Come for the baths, stay for the hiking and local food.
What's Alhama de Murcia about?
Alhama de Murcia is a working town with thermal springs at its heart. It's not overly touristy - you'll see more Spanish visitors than foreigners. The name comes from Arabic "al-hamma" meaning hot spring, and that's exactly what brought people here for 2,000 years.
The town sits between the Guadalentin Valley and the Sierra Espuna mountains. This means you get both agricultural plains (famous for peaches and almonds) and rugged mountain scenery in one place. It's close enough to Murcia city for a day trip, but worth staying overnight if you want to hike or properly relax.
What to do and see
The thermal baths
The Roman baths (Baños Romanos) are the main attraction. They're not ruins - the water still flows at 38°C. You can visit the archaeological site to see the original Roman structures, then book a treatment at the modern spa next door. The water is rich in minerals and locals swear by it for rheumatism.
Balneario de Alhama
€€The modern spa complex next to the Roman baths. Book treatments in advance, especially weekends. The circuit termal (thermal circuit) gives you access to different pools and saunas.
Sierra Espuna hikes
The Sierra Espuna Natural Park starts right at Alhama's doorstep. This is serious hiking territory with pine forests, rocky peaks and incredible views. The most popular trail is the Subida al Morron (ascent to Morron peak), but there are easier routes too.
Centro de Visitantes Ricardo Codorniu
FreeStart here for hiking information. They have detailed trail maps and can advise based on your fitness level. Open Tuesday to Sunday, mornings only.
Old town wander
The historic centre is compact but has character. Start at Plaza Vieja (Old Square), then walk up to the castle ruins (Castillo de Alhama) for views over the town. The 16th-century church of San Lazaro is worth a quick look inside.
Local food spots
Alhama has proper local restaurants, not tourist traps. Look for places serving migas (fried breadcrumbs with meat), arroz con conejo (rice with rabbit), and anything with local peaches in season.
Meson El Molino
€€In a restored mill by the river. Good for meat dishes and local wines. Try the cordero al horno (roast lamb) if it's available.
Practical information
- Getting there: Drive from Murcia on the A7/E15 motorway (exit 589). Buses run from Murcia's bus station but are infrequent.
- Parking: Easy in the modern parts of town. Limited in the old centre.
- Opening hours: Spanish hours apply - shops close 2-5pm, restaurants serve lunch 2-4pm, dinner from 9pm.
- Summer warning: It gets very hot here in July/August. Hike early morning or stick to the spa.
Local tips
Alhama is next to Totana, famous for its pottery. If you're interested in crafts, visit the artisan workshops in Totana's old town. It's a 10-minute drive between the two.
The thermal baths get busy, especially at weekends and during local holidays. Book treatments online or call ahead. Last-minute walk-ins often can't get in.
Look for "tortas de pimiento" - sweet pastries with pepper. They sound weird but are actually good. Best with coffee in one of the cafes around Plaza Vieja.