Location

On an Olive Branch Retreats Holiday, you will be staying at the wonderful Casa Hotel Luzon, you can read more about the hotel on the accommodation page. The hotel is nestled amongst the mountains of the Sierra del Carche National Park and surrounded by lush olive groves and vineyards. The closest town, Jumilla is less than 10 minutes away. This beautifully traditional historic Spanish town has everything you need, including a colourful market on Tuesday mornings, which is well worth a visit. Jumilla, is located in the the Murcia region of South East Spain and is approximately 1 hour from Alicante airport.

In 1981 the "Old Zone" of Jumilla was declared an area of historical importance. The 15th century Castle, and the church of Santiago, (which was declared a national monument in 1931) are beautiful.

Jumilla is part of "Rutas del Vino de España" (Wine routes of Spain), the area gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, traditions and customs of a wine-growing region. You will have the opportunity to sample many of the local wines in the hotel cellar, included in the package.

Throughout the year there are many fiestas (festivals) in Jumilla. The most important of these is "Semana Santa de Jumilla" - "Easter Week", the Easter week celebrations are almost 600 years old. "Holy Week" as it is otherwise known is the most important fiesta on the town's calendar. It is outstanding for it's colour, artistic wealth and for the enthusiasm of the local people. The festival recieved the Gold Medal in 2000 from the Region of Murcia and in 2003, it was declared a National Fiesta of Touristic Interest. Throughout August, during the wine harvest, there are many harvest festivals, with all activities centred around wine and its culture. Jumilla celebrates with the opening of the "wine fountain", and with the "offering of the grapes", an absolute must see!

There are several other interesting local towns nearby, all with their own unique character, history and fiestas just waiting to be explored. We can arrange transport for you and provide advice of places well worth a visit. If you decided to hire your own car during your holiday with us, we can also provide you with maps to help you find your way around.

Other than wine, the main sources of income for the area are in the production of marble & salt, and the growing of olives & almonds. This has made the region one of the richest areas in Spain.

There are several well surfaced tracks in the area, which are perfect if you wish to take some time out to explore the countryside. The Parks are ideal if you enjoy walking. They are also well known for the different species of birds that inhabit its landscape, including golden eagles, the eagle owl, goshawks, sparrowhawks, buzzards and falcons.

A remarkable place to visit, somewhere different to explore, with an astounding history just waiting to be uncovered.