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If what you need it to get away from it all and breathe the fresh, clean air of the mountains while leaving the stress of everyday life behind you, the perfect destination is the natural park of Sierra Espuña in the Region of Murcia. This regional park was the first in Murcia to be protected by the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism and what follows is a summary of some of the ways in which you can enjoy this beautiful natural environment.
1. Adventure experiences
Some of your favourite sporting activities are even more enjoyable in the surroundings of a natural paradise, such as hang-gliding, ziplining, canyoning, yoga and paddle surf…
If what tickles your fancy is caving you can explore the depths of the Sierra Espuña by visiting the caves of La Matea, El Churtal and La Pólvora. For climbing, perhaps the best option is to scale the rock walls known as the Paredes de Leyva, while if you want an adrenaline shot try canyoning in the Barranco de Lébor and the Barranco del Ciervo: the latter also boasts a via ferrata right at on the edge of the natural park.
For a bird’s eye view of Sierra Espuña there are plenty of perfect locations for hang-gliding, ziplining and even hot air balloon flights.
You can even enjoy paddle boarding in Sierra Espuña, at the reservoir of La Cierva, while more tranquil options include yoga and an activity called “Un día con el pastor” (A Day with the Shepherd), finding out about a host of peculiarities of the mountains and this age-old occupation!
2. Birdlife
If you enjoy bird-watching you’ll be delighted to know that in the Regional Park of Sierra Espuña the rulers of the roost are without a doubt the golden eagle and the booted eagle. This is also a preferred habitat for the peregrine falcon and the Eurasian goshawk, and all four predators soar in the skies above the mountains, while smaller breeds include crossbills, cirl buntings and black wheatears.
Take your camera and you’ll go home with some great shots for your collection!
3. Nature on wheels
Exploring the Sierra Espuña can involve the use of two or four wheels, on your own, with friends and family or with your partner – it’s up to you!
For adrenaline-lovers the recommended option is “Espubike”, a circular route comprising four stages which runs through some of the most attractive spots in the park.
On the other hand, if you prefer tarmac then you’ll love “Espuroad”: three routes around the mountains starting in the towns around the foot of Sierra Espuña, such as Alhama.
Another possibility is the “Desafío Espubike”, the Espubike Challenge: this is an official rout starting at the Sierra Espuña campsite in El Berro, where the staff will supply you with everything you need to take it on: if you complete the challenge, you win a small prize!
4. Panoramic views
When did you last stop and just enjoy the moment? In Sierra Espuña you can hardly help it, due to the peace and quiet of the natural environment: take a breather and admire the immense landscape from any of the 10 viewing points, natural balconies over the greenery of the pine forests and the majestic peaks.
Of course, you can find these viewing points on your own but there are also guides available to tell you all about the history and peculiarities of the landscapes you’re looking at!
5. Treat your taste buds
Sierra Espuña is the ideal place to enjoy fresh, healthy cuisine, especially the steaming stews which strengthen not only the body but also the soul!
The soil in the area of Sierra Espuña is perfect for growing fruit and vegetables, and the lemons grown on the lower slopes are particularly appreciated. The local olive groves provide sustainably produced oil, and almond, walnut and pistachio trees adorn the landscape with their colourful blossoms every spring. The honey of Sierra Espuña – completely local and ecological, of course – is another local delight.
Not to be forgotten are the aromatic herbs which flavour the local cooking, and you can either enjoy the results in the local restaurants or purchase the ingredients to weave your own culinary magic at home!
6. Hiking and trekking paths
The walking and trekking routes in Sierra Espuña have been designed to lead to locations of incalculable natural beauty with incredible views.
One must-see area is the lunar landscape or badlands of the Barrancos de Gebas, and in the village there are various accommodation options – on the other hand, you could sleep under the stars!
(A word of warning here: if you are walking in Sierra Espuña alone, please inform the Ricardo Cordorniú visitors centre of your plans and ensure that the professionals staffing the office are able to help you in any way you need.)
Source: Region of Murcia tourist board (ITREM)
