Enjoy the great outdoors in the Region of Murcia!

Explore the Senderos Azules hiking routes of the Murcia coast and countryside

In the south-eastern corner of Spain the attractions of a day out enjoying Nature are more varied than many people realize at first, ranging from the crystal-clear water of the Mediterranean to the mountains which reach altitudes of 2,000 metres and encompassing everything in between in a world full of contrasts which constantly appeals to the more adventurous among us.

The Regional Tourist Board (ITREM) especially recommends the “Senderos Azules” (blue paths) of the Region of Murcia, a group of routes marked by their harmonious blend of nature and sustainable tourism. Each Sendero Azul is in fact rather more than a simple path: rather, it is a collection of impressive landscapes and environmental balance which invites travellers to relate on a deep level to the natural world and learn how to respect and care for it.

The first of these routes to explore is the seafront walk between La Azohía and Isla Plana, which takes in not only the two small villages at the eastern end of the Bay of Mazarrón but also the crop fields which lie between. Along the way are historical landmarks such as the old "La Marrana" bathing station in Isla Plana and the imposing 16^th-centurywatchtower of the Torre de Santa Elena, which stands on the headland of Cabo Tiñoso above La Azohía. In addition, around the mid-point is a palm grove and picnic area, and in the little harbour of La Azohía you can witness the centuries-old traditional fishing technique of “La Almadraba” which is still in use today!

Next on the list is the Monte de las Cenizas, on the coast between Cartagena and Cabo de Palos. From the top some claim it is possible to see the coast of North Africa, but what is more certain is that the views out over the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean are spectacular in their own right!

Still on the coast, a little further east is the Regional Park of Calblanque, a protected area which features ancient sand dunes, startling colours, incredible cliffs, hidden coves and beaches and a series of rock formations which have long fascinated geologists.

Moving north we come to the salt flats of San Pedro del Pinatar, home to numerous salt pans and the most interesting wetland area in the Region of Murcia. Just picture yourself walking along, admiring the flamingos in the salty water along with a host of birds you probably won’t even recognize – and all this in an environment where the salt production concerns are still operative, maximising production in the most natural way imaginable!

A trip inland can take you to the Fuentes del Marqués, a rural beauty spot perfect for a family day out. This green oasis just outside the Holy City of Caravaca will catch you by surprise with its freshwater springs and lush vegetation, and it is also steeped in history due to its connection with the Marquises of San Mamés.

Finally, the tourist board recommends returning to the Bay of Mazarrón to see the “gredas” of Bolnuevo. These enchanting wind-eroded rocks have been formed over an unimaginable length of time just behind a huge swathe of sandy beach, and are only a short hike away from the rocky coastline and tiny coves along the coast of the Sierra de los Moreras.

These are just some of the open-air adventures awaiting you in the Region of Murcia – to find more, consult the ITREM website or simply head out into nature and discover them for yourself!

Source: ITREM