Murcia City’s First Five-Star Hotel to Open in a Restored 300-Year-Old Palace
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Now Accepting Bookings from 9 September 2026
Signature destination imagery available to download
HERE
September 2026 - A new chapter in the Region of Murcia’s hospitality scene begins this autumn, as bookings open for Palacio San Juan, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, from 9 September 2026.
Occupying a prime position in the heart of the historic centre, the hotel’s arrival marks a turning point for the regional capital, becoming the city’s first five-star property. Operated by Barceló Hotel Group, the project restores the striking neoclassical façade of Palacio de Floridablanca, an architectural landmark with more than three centuries of history, with reimagined interiors that evoke the grandeur of the past.
Gastronomy will form a central part of the experience with the hotel drawing inspiration from Murcia City’s renowned market gardens and embracing locally sourced, zero-kilometre produce. The à la carte restaurant, Ocra, will be led by acclaimed chef Juanlu Fernández, a recipient of two Michelin stars.
Whilst exploring the city, guests can unwind beside the Royal Heaven rooftop pool while taking in panoramic views across Murcia City, make use of the fully equipped gym, or relax in the beautiful spaces that embody the understated luxury of the Royal Hideaway brand.
A curated collection of experiences allows hotel guests to experience the Region of Murcia, with highlights including a wine tasting at a historic early-20th-century estate in Jumilla, sailing in between two seas (Mar Menor and the Mediterranean) or discovering the Bay of Cartagena aboard the a catamaran, combining the city’s naval heritage with striking Mediterranean coastal scenery.
The opening of Palacio San Juan invites travellers to discover one of Spain’s most underrated destinations and with over 300 days of sunshine each year and 250km of beaches along the Costa Cálida (“Warm Coast”), autumn is the perfect time to visit.
This brand new 5-star, Palacio San Juan, is priced from £273per night per room (accommodation only) or £287 per night per room (B&B). Fly to the Region of Murcia directly with easyJet from London Gatwick, London Luton, Bristol and Manchester.
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About The Region of Murcia:
The Region of Murcia, located in southeastern Spain, offers an authentic taste of Spanish culture, combining rich heritage with diverse natural landscapes. Bordered by both the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, the region is home to two protected marine reserves, Cabo de Palos-Islas Hormigas and Cabo Tiñoso, as well as three established wine routes with Designation of Origin status: Jumilla, Bullas and Yecla.
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, the Region of Murcia is an ideal year-round destination, particularly appealing for travellers seeking winter sun without the crowds and high prices often found elsewhere in Spain. Its mild climate and relaxed pace of life make it especially attractive for families, offering safe beaches, family-friendly resorts and a welcoming atmosphere suited to all ages. Combined with its excellent value for money, Murcia stands out as one of Spain’s most affordable Mediterranean destinations for both short breaks and longer stays.
The region’s coastline, known as the Costa Cálida (‘Warm Coast’), provides a wide range of experiences, from sandy beaches and calm waters to wellness and leisure activities. Murcia is also one of Spain’s leading destinations for water sports. The calm, shallow waters of the Mar Menor are ideal for sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking and family-friendly activities, while the Mediterranean coastline offers excellent conditions for diving, snorkelling, windsurfing and kitesurfing. Cabo de Palos, in particular, is internationally recognised as one of Europe’s top diving destinations thanks to its protected marine reserve and rich underwater biodiversity.
One of the region’s standout attractions is its network of Vías Verdes, or “greenways.” These are former railway lines that have been thoughtfully restored into scenic walking and cycling routes. Gentle gradients and well-maintained paths make them accessible to a wide range of visitors, from families with children to more experienced hikers and cyclists. Trails such as the Vía Verde del Noroeste wind through striking countryside, passing orchards, tunnels and historic viaducts, offering both natural beauty and a sense of the region’s industrial past.
The cuisine of the Region of Murcia reflects its Mediterranean setting, fertile countryside and strong culinary traditions. Known as “Spain’s orchard,” the region is celebrated for its fresh produce, including tomatoes, peppers, citrus fruits and artichokes, which form the basis of many local dishes. Traditional specialities such as zarangollo (a courgette and egg dish), arroz caldero (rice cooked with fish from the Mar Menor) and freshly grilled seafood showcase the area’s connection to both land and sea. Combined with locally produced wines from the Jumilla, Bullas and Yecla wine regions, Murcia offers an authentic and flavourful dining experience rooted in simplicity, seasonality and quality ingredients.
For more information contact Jess Cochrane and Immy Hockings at Murcia@lemongrassmarketing.com
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