Palmeral of Elche, Spain

Travelers can visit the amazing Elche palm forest in Alicante. This is the largest palm grove in Europe. The forest area is 5.1 square kilometers. Its territory is divided into several zones. There is a great recreation park with equipped paths for walking, playgrounds, and attractions here. The history of the appearance of this grove goes far back in time. It was formed by the Iberians in the 4th century BC. The Moors created an artificial irrigation system in this arid area later. A small grove has grown into a huge palm garden thanks to it.

Many trees in the Elche forest are more than 200 years old today. In addition to unique plants, it is also distinguished by a variety of architectural monuments. You can see beautiful old gazebos, symbolic monuments, interesting elements of stone decoration, and even an artificial waterfall while walking in the garden. Many artificial reservoirs are formed on the territory of the forest. Pedestrian bridges are built across them for the convenience of tourists.

Fish and turtles live in local ponds. The palm forest is home to dozens of species of birds and rare insects. In total, there are about 11,000 date palms in the forest. The largest of them weighs about 10 tons. This palm tree is 165 years old. It has become a real local attraction. In addition to palm trees, many other ornamental plants and flowers are planted on the territory of the grove. You can even see rare cactus species here. Next - Royal Palace of Aranjuez