Getting away from it all in the mountains of Sierra Espuña

The “green heart” of the Region of Murcia is a must for lovers of the great outdoors all year round!

The Regional Park of Sierra Espuña is one of the great natural treasures of the Region of Murcia, with its marvellous landscapes, innumerable leisure and adventure opportunities and the network of charming accommodation options making it a perfect destination.

Here, the mountains, pine forests and spectacular viewing points make it impossible not to enjoy the wonders of nature, and the regional tourist board highlights the following aspects to whet your appetite still further!

What to do in Sierra Espuña

Above all, this protected nature reserve is a versatile destination, equally well suited to families, sporty individuals, nature lovers and those seeking a romantic getaway. Among the most popular attractions are the network of walking and hiking routes, with options for all levels and abilities, from gentle strolls in the woods to climbs up to peaks such as the Morrón de Espuña. This is also a great area to enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing and hang-gliding!

The more curious visitor will want to take a look inside the famous Pozos de la Nieve (“snow wells”), old domed structures where in centuries past, before refrigeration became a way of life, ice was stored in the mountains and then transported first by mule and then by horse and cart to the cities of Murcia and Cartagena.

And, of course, there’s plenty of native wildlife, and birdwatching is just one activity which attracts more and more visitors every year.

After a day out in the clean air and natural surroundings, there’s nothing like a good dinner, so enjoy the local gastronomy in the nearby towns and villages – traditional dishes here include michirones (a broad bean stew), migas and a selection of desserts for those with a sweet tooth.

An environmentally sustainable destination

The Regional Park of Sierra Espuña and the surrounding area have been recognized internationally as a destination for sustainable tourism, and this is the first nature reserve in the Region of Murcia to be included in the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECTS).

The ECTS is a scheme promoted by the EUROPARC Federation and is designed to promote responsible and sustainable tourism in protected areas throughout Europe. This commitment is adhered to by the management of the park and the businesses operating within it, guaranteeing that the experiences enjoyed by visitors are compatible with respect for the atmosphere and the promotion of local development.

Where to stay in Sierra Espuña

The charms of the area are not limited to the landscape and scenery: there are also characterful accommodation options available, and these only add to the enjoyment of your Sierra Espuña experience.

Ribazos de la Sierra

Right in the heart of the Regional Park, Ribazos de la Sierra is a rural accommodation establishment which prioritizes authenticity and sustainability as well as the comfort of the guests. It is located on a working agricultural concern and combines comfort with respect for the environment: the rural dwellings, renovated using lime mortar, adobe and timber ,are designed to create a restful atmosphere, and enjoy marvellous views from the terrace where you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

The establishment also promotes ecological crop farming and is working to be included in the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism.

Hotel Mirador de Aledo

If what you’re looking for in your accommodation is charm and luxury, the Hotel Boutique Mirador de Aledo is the perfect choice. Looking out on Sierra Espuña, the hotel is in a renovated and refurbished late 19th-century stately home, and guests stay in nine spacious and beautifully decorated rooms.

The hotel has its own restaurant and also boasts a swimming pool, gardens and a terrace with panoramic views. In the kitchen, tradition is fused with modernity to create a selection of Mediterranean dishes using fresh produce, and this is the perfect spot for those looking for a blend of nature, rest and good food.

Of course, there are plenty more choices, and the regional tourist board (ITREM) invites to take a look at their local accommodation search facility online here: all tastes and budgets are catered for!

The perfect getaway all year round

Whether it’s to enjoy the cooler temperatures at altitude in summer, to enjoy one of the long bank holiday weekends which dot the Spanish calendar, or just to spend some time away from the routine of daily life, Sierra Espuña is a marvellous place to enjoy the natural heritage, culture and gastronomy of inland Murcia in the knowledge that your time here constitutes responsible and sustainable tourism.

The typical holiday postcard of the Region of Murcia probably shows a good deal of sand and sea, but this is perhaps the best hidden destination of the Costa Cálida!

Source: ITREM