The extinct volcano of El Carmoli on the shore of the Mar Menor
An interesting geological walk in El Carmolí with spectacular views over the Mar Menor
The volcanic plug of El Carmolí, which rises to an altitude of 113 metres above sea level, is one of a series of 7-million-year-old andesite plugs which include those of Isla Mayor and Isla Perdiguera in the Mar Menor and the Cerro de Calnegre in La Manga. Its largely undeveloped nature and easy access from the residential area of El Carmolí make it an interesting climb for walkers, and while the flora is characterized mainly by thyme and rosemary the fauna includes bird species such as stilts and curlews. It goes without saying that the views from the top are spectacular, both east over the Mar Menor and west towards the crop farming of the Campo and the city of Cartagena.
The shape of the plug suggests that the crater was originally to the east of the mountain, and that the other half of the volcanic cone has been eroded away.
The natural shape of the remaining plug, as determined by wind and rain erosion, has been altered by man over the centuries. During the Civil War tunnels were dug in which to store weapons, and during some periods of history agricultural terracing and over-grazing have had an adverse affect on the natural environment. On top of this, the residential development of recent decades has also affected the environment, but despite this the volcano still dominates the natural landscape in this part of the Mar Menor coast.
The curiously shaped rock formation at the peak of the plug, which locals sometimes swear resembles a dog, has retained its shape, and the volcano is often visited by local school and university students who are studying volcanic rock formations.
El Carmolí lies at the northern end of a 26-kilometre walking route which connects this part of the Mar Menor with Cabo de Palos and Cala Reona.
For further information visit the El Carmolí town page.
