Free walking tours in Jumilla and what to see

Must-sees

Jumilla is on the high plateau of northern Murcia and is above all wine country, with its own appellation and monastrell as the star grape. The castle dominates the town from a hilltop: it was built by the Marquis of Villena in the 15th century on an earlier Moorish fortress, and you climb up via the Subidor path. Below, the main church of Santiago mixes Gothic, Renaissance and neoclassical styles, and the Italian-style Teatro Vico is the work of the architect of Murcia's Teatro Romea.

A few kilometres south is the Franciscan monastery of Santa Ana del Monte, which holds a Christ at the Column by Salzillo. From there a walk through the pine wood leads to the Iberian site of Coimbra del Barranco Ancho. On the outskirts stands El Casón, a Roman mausoleum with its original roof. The Jerónimo Molina museum brings together the area's archaeology and natural history.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours of the old town in Jumilla. The most common activity is a winery visit, with a tour of the winemaking process and a tasting of monastrell wines. The Jumilla Wine Route groups several wineries open to visitors all year round. For the castle and the monuments, it's best to ask at the tourist office or go on your own.

How long to spend

A morning is enough for the castle, the church of Santiago and the centre. If you add a winery and the Santa Ana monastery, allow a full day. With two days you can visit several wineries without rushing and pop over to Yecla. In late August the Grape Harvest Festival is held, with the Wine Parade, and the atmosphere changes completely.

Where to stay

The most practical option is to stay in central Jumilla, near the church of Santiago and the gardens, so you can get around on foot in the evening. If you're coming for wine tourism, some wineries and rural houses in the countryside offer accommodation among the vineyards, though you'll need a car. Accommodation is limited, so during fiestas book early or look in Yecla or Murcia.