This Sierra de Líjar trail takes you through a mesmerizing maze of towering limestone formations, rugged terrains, and dense vegetation. As you start your journey, the excitement is palpable. The path, however, will quickly reveal its true character, offering a relentless challenge for hikers.
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| Typical view along the mountainous trail of Sierra de Líjar |
The rocky terrain demands your full attention and careful footing. Boulders of all shapes and sizes scatter the path, creating an obstacle course that requires nimbleness and balance. Each step is an adventure in itself, as you navigate through the natural obstacles, your heart racing with the thrill of the unknown.
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| Griffon Vulture soaring over the valley |
It is hard to recommend this route as a birding hotspot. For that, the terrain is way to rough and the distance too long. You will experience severe difficulties if you don't wear appropriate shoes or if you're not in very good condition, even as an experienced hiker. The views are worth the effort, but I'd recommend limiting this trail to a visit to the Orihuela watchpoint or to the Levante or Poniente watchpoint. Completing the whole 18 kilometres long route will really test your stamina, be warned! The difference in altitude you have to overcome is not bad either: from 408 metres minimum to a maximum of 973 metres. As for the birds, this is not a spectacular place, unfortunately. You do get a good chance to photograph Griffon Vultures flying by and landing on the cliffs, and you light run into an occasional Blue Rock Thrush or Peregrine Falcon, but bird species in this area are not abundant.
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| Thousands of rocks spread all over the floor to put your ankles and feet to the test |
Type: circular (18 kilometres)
Difficulty: medium-high
Best season: autumn, spring
Number of species to expect: 10+
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