Discover the natural paradise of the River Argos in north-western Murcia

Hiking, kayaking, birdwatching and the simple joy of the countryside in Caravaca, Cehegín and Calasparra

Source: ITREM

The River Argos is far from being a major waterway but it is one of the natural jewels of the north-west of the Region of Murcia as well as being an important contributor to the scarce water supplies of south-eastern Spain. It flows over a distance of 45 kilometres from its source in the municipality of Caravaca de la Cruz into the River Segura, which it joins in Calasparra, also flowing through Cehegín on the way.

Set in wonderfully picturesque surroundings (which of course have to some degree been created by the river itself), the Argos is also very popular among visitors seeking adventure in the countryside of the north-western Murcia as they seek to enjoy Nature and the open air.

The curious name given to this river is owed to an ancient Greek settlement called Argos which was established on the site of modern-day Cehegín in around 600 BC, and it is assumed that this settlement grew because of the importance of the river as a source not only of water but also of the minerals which are still to be found in the riverbed today.

This historical legacy can still be appreciated in a few remains along the course: this is the case of the Molino Harinero del Río, an old 16th-century flour mill close to the village of Archivel where the strength of the flowing water was harnessed to grind grain. These days a group of rural tourism houses stands alongside in the Hospedería Rural El Molino del Río Argos.

Although the volume of flow in the Argos is not high, its valley is an important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The flora includes esparto grass, reed beds, tamarisks, willows, poplars and sideritis, known as ironwort, mountain tea, Greek tea or shepherd's tea in English but as “rabo de gato, or cat’s tail, in Spanish.

As for the fauna, bird species include waders and divers such as grey herons, black-tailed night herons and western cattle egrets who find food and shelter along the banks, while among mammals otters have also been spotted, underlining the importance of the river for the riverbank ecosystem.

The river feeds the Argos reservoir, which apart from supplying irrigation water for the fields of Cehegín and Calasparra also attracts a large number of visitors and lovers of the great outdoors. The reservoir lies within the ZEPA birdlife protection area and around it are numerous picnic areas in a charming setting – especially for birdwatchers!

But it is not only the natural and historical importance of the river which bring visitors, as there are also a host of aquatic activities on offer, making it a perfect destination to enjoy kayaking or paddle surfing. These activities are welcomed as their environmental impact is minimal, and of course they are great fun for individuals, couples, groups and families, making it possible to explore the river from different perspectives.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that this is a great area for walking and hiking too. Throughout this natural paradise there are marked paths, making it easy to discover for yourself the rural landscape of north-western Murcia, the natural beauty and the panoramic views of and from the mountains around the river.

The River Argos truly does have something to please all tastes and preferences!

Images: elrioargos.blogspot.com, ITREM