The best parks and gardens in Elche for a stroll

If there is one thing that defines Elche (besides its shoes and its Misteri), it is its greenery. And not just any greenery: we are talking about parks in Elche with centuries-old palm trees, historic gardens that look like something out of a fairytale, and natural spaces that make you forget you are in the middle of a city. Ready to stroll among palms, ponds and that Mediterranean air that cures everything? Then hop on your OUIGO and get ready to discover the most natural side of Elche. 🌴✨

The Palmeral of Elche: World Heritage Site

The Palmeral de Elche isn’t just any old park: it is the largest urban palm grove in Europe and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. With over 200,000 palm trees spread throughout the city, this place transports you to another world without leaving Spain.

Walking routes among thousands of palms

The Ruta del Palmeral is a circular route connecting several historic orchards such as the Hort dels Pontos, Hort del Sol and Hort de Vicentet. It is a real treat to get lost among ancient palm trees while discovering the irrigation system inherited from the Moorish era.

Interpretive areas and viewpoints

The Museo del Palmeral, located in the Huerto de San Plácido, tells you the whole history, farming techniques and cultural importance of this unique heritage. Perfect for understanding why this place is so special.

Pro tip: Entry is usually free on Sundays. Take the opportunity to do the full visit without spending extra.

Rest areas and photography spots

The Palmeral is full of corners perfect for taking a break, breathing deep and snapping photos that look like they belong in National Geographic. Strategic benches, shaded areas and paths that invite you to keep walking without looking at the clock.

If you want more plans in the city, check our guide on what to see in Elche.

Huerto del Cura: historic and botanical garden

The Huerto del Cura is the botanical jewel of Elche. This private garden (with ticketed entry) boasts a collection of Mediterranean and exotic plants that will leave you speechless. It is small, but impressive.

Collection of Mediterranean and exotic plants

Here you won't just find palm trees: you will also find giant cacti, tropical flowers and a mix of flora that turns every corner into a picture-postcard. The paths are immaculately kept and everything is designed for you to enjoy at a leisurely pace.

Unique palms like the Imperial Palm

The Palmera Imperial is the star of the garden. With its seven arms, it is unique in the world and its history is so curious that even Empress Sissi fell in love with it (literally, hence its name). Don't leave without taking a photo of it.

Pro tip: The entry fee isn't expensive and is worth every penny. Opening hours are extensive all year round, but in summer they stay open until 20:30. Check more info on their official website.

Paths and shaded zones for strolling

The entire garden is designed for strolling calmly. There are benches, fountains and strategic shaded areas so you don't get scorched in summer. A perfect plan to switch off in the middle of the city.

Parque Municipal de Elche

The Municipal Park is the green lung of Elche and a firm favourite with families. Free entry, modern play areas and loads of space to do whatever you fancy: from a picnic to taking a nap under the palms.

Children's zones and family walks

The play area in the Municipal Park is brilliant: 600 m² of fun with inclusive, technological games adapted for all ages. It has three themed areas: "The Dovecote Zone" (Zona del Palomar) for over 5s, "The Shoe Factory" (Fábrica de Zapatos) for the little ones, and "E-Sport", the first technological play zone in Elche. Yes, you read that right: interactive games right in the park.

Pro tip: If you are travelling with kids, this park is a mandatory stop. Bring water, snacks and get ready to stay for a good while.

Fountains, ponds and bridges

Besides games, the park has ponds where children love watching the ducks and swans, bridges to cross between zones and fountains that provide that touch of coolness you crave in summer.

Open-air cultural events

The park's Rotonda is an open-air theatre where theatrical and cultural activities are set up in August. A fantastic plan to combine nature with live art.

If you are looking for more things to do in the area, check out our guide on what to do near Elche.

Other outstanding parks and gardens

Elche has more green spaces than you might imagine. Here are others that deserve a visit:

Huerto de San Plácido Garden

Location: Calle Maximiliano García Soriano. 
A historic garden with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Ideal if you are looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a "zen mode" walk among local flora.

Parque de la Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas

A more modern park with walking zones, green areas and spaces for sports. Perfect for bike rides or simply walking aimlessly.

Theme parks and family leisure

If what you are looking for is fun with a capital F, Elche also has options to get an adrenaline fix.

Permanent recreational spaces

Although Elche doesn't have a massive theme park in the centre, it does have recreational spaces and family leisure areas in shopping centres like L'Aljub, with covered children's zones perfect for rainy days.

Activities for kids and families

The municipal parks organise activities throughout the year: workshops, outdoor games and family events.

Tips for strolling through Elche's parks and gardens

• Wear comfy shoes: The walks are long and it is worth covering them without suffering.
• Bring water in warm months: Elche gets hot in summer, so stay well hydrated.
• Respect the heritage: The palm trees are living history. Look after them as they deserve.
• Plan for the golden hour: At sunset everything looks better and the photos look cinematic.

Checklist – Preparations for walking around Elche

✔️ Comfy shoes for walking routes 
✔️ Plan stops in shaded areas 
✔️ Bring a camera for iconic spots 
✔️ Check opening times for ticketed gardens 
✔️ Prepare a picnic for authorised zones

Comparison table 

High-speed answers

What are the most beautiful parks and gardens in Elche? 

The Palmeral, the Huerto del Cura, the Municipal Park and the Huerto San Plácido Garden are iconic green spaces with routes, rest areas and rich vegetation, ideal for walking all year round.

How to get to Elche by train

With OUIGO, getting to Elche is a doddle. You arrive at Elche ELX AV Station, connected to the centre and ready for you to start your green route without wasting time. Book your train ticket to Elche and get ready to breathe in this city of palms. 🚄🌴

FAQ

What is the Palmeral of Elche? 

It is a collection of urban orchards and palm groves, declared a World Heritage Site, with routes and areas for walking.

Is the Huerto del Cura free to enter? 

No, it is a historic botanical garden with regulated entry and an affordable price.

Which urban park is ideal for families in Elche? 

The Municipal Park, due to its modern children's zones, ponds and spacious green areas.

Are there leisure spaces for families in Elche? 

Yes, shopping centres like L'Aljub have leisure zones for families.

Elche is greenery, history and nature in its purest form. Its gardens and the impressive Palmeral offer you unique walks that combine heritage, freshness and that Mediterranean rhythm that makes everything flow. Are you coming to discover it with OUIGO? See you under the palm trees. 🌴🚄