The best hiking routes in Paisaje Protegido de Sierra de las Moreras

Paisaje Protegido de Sierra de las Moreras is a rugged coastal mountain range in Murcia, characterized by its arid, semi-desert scrubland and sharp volcanic rock formations. Unlike the sandy beaches nearby, this protected area consists of steep, stony limestone and volcanic slopes covered in sparse, drought-resistant vegetation like esparto grass, dwarf palms, and wild olive trees. Walkers should expect rough, uneven ground underfoot, with loose gravel and sharp stones dominating the narrow, unpaved tracks that climb into the hills.

The landscape is shaped by its extreme aridity and historical mining activity, leaving visible scars and old tracks rather than pristine, untouched forests. There are no high alpine peaks or shaded woodland paths here; instead, the terrain offers low, sun-baked ridges and deep, dry ravines known as ramblas. These gravelly torrent beds remain dry for most of the year and serve as natural pathways through the stark, rocky hills.

Choosing a route here means deciding between the flatter, gravelly ramblas and the steep, rocky ascents up to the ridges. The higher paths demand careful footwork on loose scree but provide clear views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding coastal plains. In late winter, particularly around February, the sparse landscape is punctuated by the brief flowering of hardy local shrubs, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate harsh, dry coastal environments over lush greenery.