Alicante South
The south of the province does not possess the dramatic valleys and peaks of north Alicante, but it does have some attractive sign-posted footpaths and mountains that offer interesting climbs. The sierras of Orihuela, Callosa, Albatera and Crevillente all look impressively high due to the flat land that surrounds them and the extensive network of short-distance (PR) routes gives the walker a firm footing for ascents. The three natural parks based on the salt lakes and wetlands of La Mata-Torrevieja, Santa Pola and El Hondo are also locations for short and pleasurable walks, particularly for birders. In neighbouring Murcia, there are higher summits, with the Pico del Obispo reaching an impressive 2,014 metres, which means that although this is one of the hottest regions in Spain, there is still snow around the summit during the winter.
A clerical climb; meet the bishop at 2,014 metres
The alternative headline for this route was 'up the Obispo', but I've already used something similar in another section, so no go on that one. At a strapping 2,014 metres, the Pico del Obispo (the bishop’s peak) is Murcia’s highest mountain. Standing in the west of...
Sierra de Callosa ascent
The Sierra de Callosa is the jagged lump of rock that rises out of the south-western corner of the Vega Baja plain in the deep south of Alicante province. In the area, it is rivalled only by nearby Sierra de Orihuela, which is slightly higher and slightly longer in...
Encountering the eagle
At the southern end of the long, snaking Sierra de Orihuela is the Pico del Águila; the eagle’s peak. It is not the highest summit in these mountains, but it is a dramatic looking lump of rock and it's an interesting climb to get to the top.The name suggests that it...
Vines and pines at La Mata
This route could also be called ‘a short walk in La Mata-Torrevieja natural park’ – but that is probably not headline material. It is indeed a short stroll, incorporating other features, as well as grape vines and pine trees. The route – starting from the natural park...