Sierra Espuña Natural Park

Sierra Espuña Natural Park covers approximately 17,800 hectares of limestone mountain terrain in the interior of the Murcia region, rising to its highest point at Morrón de Espuña (1,583 m) and offering the most varied hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife-watching experiences in the region. Unlike much of Murcia's typically arid landscape, Sierra Espuña is covered by extensive pine woodland planted in the late 19th century as part of a pioneering reforestation programme to halt severe soil erosion, creating dense forested scenery that gives the massif a markedly different character from the surrounding dry lowlands. Native holm oak, juniper, and endemic scrubland species occupy the lower slopes and more sheltered ravines. The park sustains a notable population of Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica hispanica), frequently visible on the upper ridge trails, particularly at dawn and dusk; golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and eagle owls nest on the limestone crags. The visitor centre at Ricardo Codorníu, near the main entrance from Alhama de Murcia, provides free trail maps, wildlife information, and staff advice on seasonal conditions and current trail status. The most popular routes include the Cresta del Gallo ridge walk (GR 247.9, approximately 12 km round trip with around 600 m of ascent), which offers panoramic views extending across the coast to the Mar Menor and, on clear days, to the mountains of Algeria. The shorter Nacimiento del Río Espuña circuit (4 km) follows the river through a shaded gorge at a more modest difficulty level. Among the park's distinctive heritage features are the neveros — domed stone structures used from the 17th century to store winter snow, which was packed, insulated, and transported by mule to coastal cities for use in chilling food and water during the summer months. Snow can close upper trails between December and February; the visitor centre posts current conditions. Summer visits are feasible with early starts, as the higher elevations remain cooler than the coastal plain.