Rojales has a characterful centre with great amenities and easy access to the coastline from Alicante to the Mar Menor. It’s also close to Murcia, Orihuela and Elche.

Rojales is a large town with the heart of a traditional Moorish village at its centre. Situated just inland of the coastal resorts of Guardamar del Segura and Torrevieja, it offers easy access to beaches with all the usual amenities associated with a well-populated urbanisation. The Segura river courses through the middle and the Azud stone dam not only cuts a fine figure for admiring passers-by but diverts water from the main flow into irrigation channels (first set up by the Moors in the 16th century) that feed the fertile agricultural river valley.

There is a museum offering historical exhibitions and the Casa de Las Conchas – an entire house painstakingly decorated by seashells. Up in the hills, the man made Rodeo caves: dwellings dug out of the rocks in the 18th and 20th centuries, now serve as galleries showcasing local arts and crafts. Another gallery space is located inside one of the town’s old water wells. This now defunct fresh water source is part of a duo called Gasparito Wells.

There are great cycling and walking routes around the Segura and the salt lakes of Torrelamata too. Rojales has its own 18 hole golf course and there’s another in the nearby town of Ciudad Quesada. The whole region is dotted with greens and links that draw visitors year-round and popular with golfers looking for winter sun. There are three water parks within driving distance, the closest being the Park Aquatico. Those looking to party can head up to Los Palacios, just north of the town centre, for lively bars and clubs. Those seeking al fresco nights can find just about any cuisine they could wish for around the bustling main square.