traveldk.com

In the heart of historic Ontinyent, this hotel is functional but friendly. The village is a great base for exploring the sierras, which are dotted with natural springs and swimming holes.

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.

Get away from it all in this tiny mountain village of just 150 inhabitants. All-in walking holidays, plus a self-catering cottage.

This utterly charming mountain inn is run by a friendly British couple. Delicious local cuisine is accompanied by wine straight from the barrel. Also on offer are tailor-made walking, biking and activity holidays.

The oldest and grandest hotel in this palm-shaded spa village has rather characterless rooms, but its public areas are redolent of a glorious past. The hotel specializes in health and beauty packages, including massage, reflexology and thalassotherapy.

There are just six rooms at this country hotel nestling amid olive groves. Romantics can request a four-poster and huge bath made for two. There are walking trails nearby, plus an excellent restaurant and a pool.

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.

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.

In a region with limited accommodation options, this historic, primrose-yellow hotel is set about 10 km (6 miles) from the village, on the shores of a lake. Facilities include swimming pools, tennis and squash courts, and a gym. It’s a good base for hiking, biking and riding around the surrounding sierras.

This handsome farmhouse set in the remote valley of Penáguila is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Rooms are on the small side; the five bungalows are a better bet. There’s a bar and restaurant (both popular with locals), a pool, and a fitness area.