Wildlife and walking holidays in Murcia
- Capital: Murcia.
- Area: 11,313 km
Walking and wildlife in Murcia
Murcia is one of Spain’s driest regions, yet it offers an impressive variety of landscapes for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts. Vineyards spread across the open countryside in the north-east, the Sierra Espuña and other mountain ranges rise in the west, and the Segura River cuts through fertile valleys before reaching the Mediterranean.
The region’s ancient irrigation network, much of it developed during the Moorish period, still shapes the landscape today. Canals and traditional water systems continue to support citrus groves, rice fields and orchards, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding semi-arid countryside.
Mountains, forests and wildlife
Murcia’s highest summit is Revolcadores at 2,015 metres, close to the borders with Andalucía and Castilla-La Mancha. The region’s largest forested area is Sierra Espuña, where Aleppo pine woodland mixes with Kermes oak, lentisc, strawberry tree, honeysuckle, rockrose and rosemary to create one of south-eastern Spain’s finest mountain landscapes.
The region supports a rich variety of wildlife despite its dry climate. Barbary sheep, introduced from North Africa in the 1970s, are now well established in rocky mountain areas, while Wild boar and Red squirrels are regularly encountered in the forests. Raptors such as Golden Eagle and Bonelli’s Eagle patrol the higher ground, making Murcia an excellent destination for combining walking with wildlife watching.
Birdwatching in Murcia
Murcia is one of south-eastern Spain’s most rewarding regions for birdwatching because its habitats change so dramatically across a relatively small area. Mountain forests, Mediterranean scrub, steppe, wetlands and coastal lagoons all support different species throughout the year.
In the forests of Sierra Espuña and the inland mountains, visitors may encounter Common Crossbill, Crested Tit, Firecrest, Golden Eagle and Bonelli’s Eagle. The drier landscapes support species such as Black Wheatear, Thekla Lark, Blue Rock Thrush, Sardinian Warbler and Little Owl, while the wetlands attract Greater Flamingos, Black-winged Stilts, Squacco Herons and many other migratory birds.
This variety makes Murcia particularly appealing for birdwatchers who want to combine mountain walks, coastal scenery and wetland wildlife within the same trip.
Tours in Murcia from Viator
Murcia is often overlooked by visitors heading for Spain’s larger cities, but it offers an excellent mix of historic towns, coastal landscapes and outdoor activities. Organised tours can be a convenient way to explore the region, whether you are interested in Murcia’s historic centre, nearby islands or day trips along the Costa Cálida.
The following Viator experiences provide a useful starting point for exploring the region while leaving the practical arrangements to local operators.
Natural parks in Murcia
Natural parks in Murcia
Murcia’s protected landscapes range from forested mountains and dramatic badlands to salt marshes, dunes and Mediterranean coastline. Together they create one of Spain’s most varied collections of natural spaces, with opportunities for walking, birdwatching, wildlife photography and exploring quieter corners of the region.
The Mar Menor
The Mar Menor is Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean by the 24-kilometre sandbar known as La Manga. Its shallow, sheltered waters create an unusual coastal ecosystem that supports marine life, wetlands and an important stopover for migratory birds.
Although parts of the shoreline have been heavily developed, the lagoon remains one of Murcia’s most significant natural areas, with several protected wetlands around its edges helping to preserve its ecological importance.
1 The Sierra Espuña Regional Park. is Murcia’s best-known mountain landscape and one of Spain’s great reforestation success stories. By the late nineteenth century, much of the mountain range had been stripped of its woodland, leaving severe erosion and advancing desertification. In 1889, forestry engineer Ricardo Codorníu led an ambitious reforestation project that became a model for similar work across Spain.
Today, Aleppo pine forests, Mediterranean scrub, rocky ridges and well-marked walking routes make Sierra Espuña one of the region’s finest destinations for wildlife and walking holidays.
The Jardines de la Santa in Totana makes an excellent base for exploring the park. I’ve stayed here three times, and the combination of comfortable rooms, good food and easy access to the mountains makes it one of my favourite places to stay in Murcia.
2 Carrascoy y El Valle Regional Park (Parque Regional Carrascoy y El Valle) forms the main green backdrop to Murcia city. The mountain chain separates the Segura valley from the Guadalentín valley, creating an easily accessible escape into Mediterranean woodland and scrub within minutes of the capital.
Its network of walking trails, viewpoints and forested slopes makes it a popular destination for both local walkers and visitors looking to experience Murcia beyond the city centre.
3 Calblanque Monte de las Cenizas and Peña del Águila Regional Park protects one of the most attractive stretches of Murcia’s Mediterranean coastline. Sand dunes, salt marshes, coves, rocky headlands and coastal hills create exceptional ecological diversity within a relatively compact area.
The nearby Salinas de Rasall wetland adds further value for birdwatchers, making this one of the region’s best places to combine coastal walking with wildlife watching.
4 The Calnegre y Cabo Cope Regional Park protects around 17 kilometres of largely unspoilt Mediterranean coastline in southern Murcia, close to the border with Andalucía. Here, rugged mountains meet quiet beaches, cliffs and dry coastal scrub, creating a landscape that feels surprisingly wild.
The Lomo de Bas mountain forms the park’s northern barrier, while the coastal scenery makes this an excellent area for walking, nature photography and enjoying one of the quieter sections of Spain’s Mediterranean coast.
Adventure tourism in the province of Murcia
Other Regional parks in Murcia (Parques Regionales)
Murcia’s smaller regional parks protect mountain ridges, salt flats and important bird habitats, offering quieter alternatives to Sierra Espuña.
- Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar See Espacios abiertos e islas del Mar Menor)
- The regional park of the Sierra del Carche at just under 600 hectares is surrounded by the small towns of Raspay , La Alberquilla and El Carche. The highest peak in the area is 1372 metres and has a characteristic snow pit of the seventeenth century similar to those of other nearby mountains like Sierra Espuña or Sierra de Mariola.
- The relatively small Sierra de la Pila Regional Park is located in the northeastern region of Murcia. Raptors are well represented here and include Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Bonelli’s Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus), Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) and Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo).
Nature Reserves in Murcia (Reserva natural)
Sotos y Bosques de Ribera de Cañaverosa This riverside nature reserve near Calasparra protects woodland, wetlands and the famous rice-growing landscape along the Segura River. The Las Lomas de la Virgen viewpoint is an excellent place to enjoy panoramic views while watching birds over the surrounding fields and river corridor.
Protected Landscapes in Murcia (Paisajes protegidos)
Murcia’s protected landscapes include badlands, coastal wetlands, salt marshes and Mediterranean hillsides, each preserving distinctive habitats that complement the larger regional parks.
- Barrancos de Gebas From Alhama de Murcia head toward the tiny village of Gebas and look out for the signs directing you to the “Mirador de Gebas“. This viewpoint offers fantastic views over the badlands.
- Cuatro Calas Among its fauna, the spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) is present in good numbers. There are also wetland birds such as stork, steppe birds such as black wheatear and coastal birds such as little tern.
- Espacios abiertos e islas del Mar Menor This area has suffered some pretty huge environmental issues over the years with uncontrolled building projects and human projects etc but now seems to be experiencing an welcome respite with the help of local ecologists and the EU. As recently as July 2020 the “recovery and protection act of the Mar Menor” expanded the protected area with the inclusion of seven new wetlands in the environment of the lagoon. (Saladar de Los Urrutias, Mouth of the Rambla de la Carrasquilla, Saladar of Punta de Las Lomas, Punta del Pudrimel, Lagunas del Cabezo Beaza, Los Alcázares Lagoon and the Lagoons of El Algar.
- Humedal del Ajauque y Rambla Salada The Ajauque and Rambla Salada wetland is a protected landscape with an area of 1632 hectares and belongs to the municipalities of Fortuna, Molina de Segura, Santomera and Abanilla.
- Sierra de las Moreras This area is included within the limits of the Calnegre y Cabo Cope Regional Park ZEPA special area for birdlife.
- Islas e islotes del litoral mediterráneo The Natural Area Islands and islets of the Mediterranean coast is made up of 18 islands and islets along the coast of Murcia.
Natural monuments in Murcia (Monumentos naturales)
Murcia’s natural monuments protect remarkable geological formations, caves and archaeological sites that combine natural history with thousands of years of human heritage.
- Monte Arabí The Cantos de la Visera are two shelters with cave paintings that were discovered in 1912, both shelters are located on the eastern cliff of Mount Arabí. The paintings are in the naturalistic style of Levantine art and are approximately 7,000 years old. The site has been a World Heritage Site since 1998 under the name Rock Art of the Mediterranean Arch of the Iberian Peninsula .
- Gredas de Bolnuevo Las Gredas de Bolnuevo, also called El Ciudad Encantada (enchanted city) are eroded sandstone formations along the beach of Bolnuevo.
- Sima de la Higuera La Sima de la Higuera (Cave of the fig) is the third natural monument to be declared in the Region of Murcia. It is located north of Sierra Espuña, in the municipality of Pliego and has over 5 kilomtres of extension.
Marine reserves in Murcia
Murcia’s two marine reserves are internationally recognised for diving, marine biodiversity and fish conservation. They protect underwater habitats that have become some of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated diving destinations.
Other places of Interest in Murcia
Beyond its regional parks, Murcia has canyons, mountain ranges, saline plains and bird-rich valleys that reward slower exploration.
- Cañón de Almadenes This area covers two kilometers on the Quípar river and nine on the Segura river and is around 116 hectares close to the towns of Calasparra and Cieza
- Sierra de la Muela, Cabo Tiñoso y Roldán The natural area of the Sierra de la Muela, Cape Tiñoso and Roldán is located to the west of the municipality of Cartagena and extends to the Bay of Mazarrón. Of great ecological importance, over 11,000 hectares have been declared a ZEPA (Special Protection Area for Birds) and SCI (Place of Community Importance). In 2016 it was also declared a marine reserve of fishing interest which makes it the second marine reserve in Murcia after the Cabo de Palos and Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve.
- Saladares del Guadalentín Los Saladares del Guadalentín is a Protected Natural Area along the Guadalentín river close to the towns of Alhama de Murcia and Totana. It is an extensive and unusual alluvial steppes plain but with saline wetlands which makes the area an ideal habitat for steppe-type birds, such as the Montagu’s harrier.
- Sierra de Salinas This area forms a natural border between the north of Murcia in the municipality of Yecla and the towns of Villena and Saladares in the region of Valencia.
Wildlife and Walking Holidays in Murcia – FAQs
Murcia combines mountain forests, semi-desert landscapes, wetlands and Mediterranean coastline within a relatively compact region. That diversity means visitors can see birds of prey, flamingos, mountain wildlife and coastal habitats during the same trip, making it one of Spain’s most varied wildlife destinations.
Murcia offers surprising geographical diversity. The northeast features open farmland and vineyards, while the northwest boasts rugged mountains and high plateaus cut by the Segura River. The southeast is home to arid plains and coastal wetlands like the Mar Menor. Despite being Spain’s driest region, ancient Moorish irrigation systems allow for lush crops such as citrus, rice, and peaches.
Yes, Murcia has several mountainous areas ideal for hiking. The highest peak is Revolcadores at 2,015m near the borders with Andalucía and Castilla-La Mancha. Sierra Espuña is the largest forested mountain range, with extensive trails and altitudes reaching 1,585m. These regions offer diverse habitats and sweeping views across the province.
Murcia is a top destination for birdwatchers, thanks to its range of habitats. Mountain forests host species like Crested Tit, Common Crossbill, and Golden Eagle. Coastal wetlands attract Greater Flamingos, Black-winged Stilts, and Squacco Herons. Other notable birds include Bonelli’s Eagle, Sardinian Warbler, Thekla Lark, Little Owl, and Bee-eaters.
Murcia supports varied wildlife, from Barbary sheep in rocky outcrops to Red squirrels and Wild boar in its forests. Wetlands and steppe regions host amphibians, reptiles, and a rich variety of bird species. The arid south offers a chance to spot rare species adapted to dry Mediterranean conditions.
The Mar Menor is a shallow saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by a 24km sandbar known as La Manga. Despite tourism development, it remains a vital ecological site, supporting marine life and migratory birds. Its calm, warm waters make it unique among Europe’s coastal wetlands.
Murcia has several important protected areas:
Sierra Espuña Regional Park – A major reforestation success, now rich in wildlife and walking routes.
Carrascoy y El Valle Regional Park – A green escape close to Murcia city.
Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas y Peña del Águila – Coastal dunes, salt flats, and rare flora.
Calnegre y Cabo Cope – A scenic mix of mountains and unspoiled Mediterranean coastline.
Salinas de San Pedro del Pinatar – Salt flats and lagoons ideal for flamingos and waders.
Yes, Murcia has two famous marine reserves:
Cabo de Palos and Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve – One of the best diving spots in Europe.
Cabo Tiñoso Marine Reserve – Declared a fishing interest zone, now protected for biodiversity and underwater exploration.
Absolutely. Sierra Espuña Regional Park is Murcia’s hiking hotspot. With forests of Aleppo pine, Mediterranean scrub, and rewilded trails, the park offers well-marked routes for all levels. It’s also rich in flora like Rockrose, Rosemary, and Lentisc, and home to raptors, mammals, and rare butterflies.
Barbary sheep were introduced in 1970 and thrive in dry, rocky regions of Murcia. Though not native, these African ungulates have adapted well and are now a common sight in places like Sierra Espuña. They coexist with native species like Wild boar and Red squirrels.
Flamingos are commonly seen at:
Mar Menor
Salinas de San Pedro del Pinatar
Las Salinas de Rasall in Calblanque Park
These coastal wetlands offer the right mix of shallow waters and saline conditions for Greater Flamingos to feed and rest during migration.
Top natural monuments include:
Monte Arabí – A UNESCO-listed site with 7,000-year-old cave paintings.
Gredas de Bolnuevo – Eroded sandstone formations on the coast, also known as the “Enchanted City”.
Sima de la Higuera – A vast cave system near Pliego with over 5km of explored passages.
Yes. Murcia includes unique steppe and badland landscapes, such as:
Barrancos de Gebas – A dramatic eroded area ideal for photography and viewpoints.
Saladares del Guadalentín – A saline steppe known for Montagu’s Harrier and other steppe birds.
Cuatro Calas – A mix of dry terrain and coastal habitats with species like the Spur-thighed tortoise.
Yes. Notable nature reserves include:
Sotos y Bosques de Ribera de Cañaverosa – Riverside woodlands ideal for birdwatching near Calasparra.
Humedal del Ajauque y Rambla Salada – A wetland area rich in amphibians and birds.
Espacios abiertos e islas del Mar Menor – Recently expanded with new protected wetlands thanks to EU efforts.
Clive Muir – Wildside Holidays – Walking, wildlife and culture holidays in Spain
I’ve been living in western Andalucía for more than 20 years and spend much of my time researching and running English-language travel websites about Spain. My work covers destinations including Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema and the Caminito del Rey, as well as Wildside Holidays, which focuses on walking, wildlife and nature travel in Spain.
Through Wildside Holidays, I share practical information about Spain’s natural parks, mountains, wildlife and walking destinations, drawing on many years of living and travelling in the country. The aim is to help visitors discover Spain’s natural landscapes responsibly and plan rewarding walking and wildlife experiences.