Enjoy an interesting morning in Elche, the “Palm Forest of Europe”. A town which has been declared a World Heritage site.Drive through part of the palm forest and groves to the delightful “Priest’s Garden”. Here a pleasant visit is made to admire the abundant variety of species of mediterranean plants, shrubs and cactii. The focal point of the garden is the magnificent eight trunk “Imperial Palm”. Enjoy a specially prepared tasting of local produce such as dates, fig bread, dried apricots and date liqueur while you admire a demostration of how a palm tree is pruned.Visit the Basílica of St. Mary where one of the major events in the Elche calender is celebrated – the mediaeval passion play “The Mystery of Elche”, the only passion play which is permitted by the Vatican to take place inside a church. Declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco.Elche is the major manufacturing centre for shoes in Spain and, during your visit, a demonstration of the manufacturing process will explain the origins and the development of the trade. Sip a glass of one of the local liqueurs before entering the showroom where a selection of shoes is available to buy at factory prices.Stroll through the tranquil Municipal Park before departing to Alicante to visit the Santa Barbara Castle, one of the largest mediaeval fortresses in Europe where, apart from the interest of the historical aspect, there are stupendous views over the City of Alicante ans the coastline. A panoramic drive will be made before returning to the ship.Note: The palm tree prune demostration is very impressive for people who has never seen how palm trees have to be pruned for health. A palm tree man will climb a palm tree dressing typical clothes and show the visitors how to do it. Due to the way used to climb the palm tree is very peculiar.