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There are horse-riding centres across the region, and most can organize anything from pony rides for kids to cross-country hacks. Tourist information offices have lists of local riding centres.

This luxuriant garden, the most beautiful corner of the famous palm groves of Elx, is a tranquil enclave of tropical flowers and cactuses shaded by palm trees.

Boasting wonderful views, the “Blue House” is set in orchards on the outskirts of historic Lorca. The restaurant specializes in local dishes. Staff can arrange sporting activities.

A 15th-century mill on the banks of the River Argos has been converted to house six apartments and a double room. There’s a pool, a terrace with fountains, orchards, and endless rolling sierras right on the doorstep.

One of the last working flour mills in Spain, this is also a wonderful hotel. The restaurant offers local Murcian specialities, as well as bread baked from flour ground on the premises. There’s walking in the nearby Sierra Espuña, and a refreshing pool.

An eccentric former railway station, with one room adapted for disabled guests. Nice touches include aromatherapy kits and fruit baskets in each room. Well located for the nearby Sierra Mariola.

You’ll need to book early for this wonderfully quirky pensión, housed in a former convent in the heart of the old city. The corridors are lined with works of art (including a Dalí sketch), and some rooms boast jacuzzis or four-posters.

This congenial, family-run hotel tucked away in the picturesque old quarter of Denia is housed in a former convent dating back more than four centuries. The staff are charming. The rooms are modest, but perfectly well equipped. The best have balconies overlooking the narrow street below.

Set in a charming small hotel in jasmine-scented gardens above the historic town of Xàtiva, the restaurant specializes in traditional regional dishes, but the highlight is the romantic garden setting.