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Date Published: 01/04/2026

A hidden corner of Murcia has made National Geographic's list of Spain's most beautiful places

From a 19th century lighthouse to one of the Mediterranean's richest marine ecosystems, this Murcia beauty spot has it all

Cabo de Palos on the Murcia coast has been named one of the 30 most beautiful places in Spain by National Geographic, with the prestigious magazine singling out the area's extraordinary ecological value both above and below the waterline.

The natural reserve, which sits at the southern tip of the Mar Menor, was included in the magazine's prestigious selection thanks to its combination of dramatic coastline, rich marine life and remarkable underwater geography.

"It boasts a landscape of great ecological value, both above and below sea level," National Geographic stated in its write-up of the area.

The 1865 lighthouse that dominates the headland gets a mention, offering panoramic views across the surrounding coastline and available to visit by appointment. The magazine also draws attention to the string of coves and cliffs that make up the Cabo de Palos and Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve, where a chain of underwater shoals forms one of the richest marine ecosystems on the entire Spanish coast.

It's the ship graveyard that perhaps captures the imagination most vividly though. Over the centuries, numerous vessels have been wrecked on the treacherous rocky points around Cabo de Palos, and National Geographic describes the result as "immense."

"Today, the Enmedio, La Testa, Piles I, and Piles II shoals are a refuge for almost all Mediterranean species and a destination for hundreds of diving enthusiasts," the magazine noted.

Cabo de Palos is just one of many remarkable corners of the Region of Murcia that tend to catch people off guard. The Abanilla Desert, the Bolnuevo Clay Cliffs and what is said to be the only cave in Europe containing luminescent minerals all sit within the Region, alongside the largest natural labyrinth in Spain and the biggest working waterwheel in Europe.

For those who prefer their adventures on the water, kayaking the Segura River and paragliding are among the more active options on offer.