Mirador de la Muela viewing point and Pino Gordo in Sierra Espuña
Spectacular views over Alhama and beyond in the foothills of Sierra Espuña
The mountains and regional park of Sierra Espuña are full of trails and paths which can be followed by walkers, as well as viewing points and points of interest, and for less energetic visitors who nonetheless enjoy exploring and finding great views a drive up to the viewing point at the top of Sierra de la Muela is thoroughly recommended.
At the same time, those who enjoy physical exertion will doubtless be tempted by the paths which lead off from this point!
The Sierra de la Muela is a range of mountains which tower above the town of Alhama de Murcia and signal the start of the Sierra Espuña regional park. At the foot of the Sierra lies farmland, and the slopes of the mountain are marked by lines of terraced farmlands behind the outcrop on which the castle of Alhama stands. There is a walking route leading up from Alhama through this terraced area, but it is fairly steep: route maps can be obtained from the tourist office.
By car, though, follow the C-3315 which leads from Alhama de Murcia up into the Sierra Espuña, heading towards Pliego.
The road climbs along the edge of Sierra de la Muela, curving up left along its edge, then right again, high up by now amidst the pine forests. On this right hand corner is a signpost pointing off down a track which leads to the viewing point.
There are 2 options at this point, one leading up a hill to the right to the Mirador de la Muela and the other to the left and the "Pino Gordo".
The Mirador de la Muela
Follow the road up and bear to the right, following the signs, and within a couple of kilometres visitors arrive at the Casa de la Muela, a forestry house used in educational programmes. There is parking at this point and a short forest track to be walked on foot through the pine trees to the viewing point, where there are fabulous views out across Alhama and the surrounding countryside.
From the car park there are plenty of walking options, with the road carrying on to a paragliding launch point (although a chain prevents unauthorised vehicles from entering the area).
To see the Pino Gordo, head back towards the road and just before arriving at the junction with the C-3315, take the other fork in the road and follow that track (signposted Camino de la Umbria).
Pino Gordo
This is a vast specimen of the native Carrascoy pine, (Pinus halepensis) which is between 130 and 150 years old, with a spread of 25 metres and a 1.5-metre diameter trunk. There is a small amount of parking nearby and again plenty of paths and roads for those who wish to explore further. There are no services or facilities near this viewing point.
For more local information in English about the municipality of Alhama de Murcia and the Sierra Espuña, including news, static information and forthcoming events, go to Alhama Today.
