Gustave Flaubert, author of Madame Bovary, once wrote that “travel makes one modest, for you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world”. And it is true. Every journey, no matter where it takes us, offers a chance to gain perspective and better understand our place in the world. It gives us the opportunity to rethink certain aspects of our lives while reinforcing many others. That is why today we invite you to hop on your bike and join us on one of the Region of Murcia’s most exciting adventure routes: the new Campoder Trail network, located in the coastal mountain ranges of southern Murcia.
It is an opportunity to discover traditional cuisine, explore the tourist attractions of each area we pass through, and meet local people by stopping at the bars and businesses we encounter along the way, enriching the experience even further.
Exploring the incredible interconnected Campoder Trail Network by bike is like embarking on a journey into a world of tranquillity, excitement and adventure.
As soon as we leave the city behind and venture into the remote and mysterious corners of the Region of Murcia, a complete sense of disconnection takes over. Starting in Tentegorra and following the main route of the network all the way to its highest point at the Almendricos Greenway, cycling becomes a genuine, unique and exhilarating experience. Most of the route follows forest tracks, trails, paths and dry riverbeds, with very little road riding involved. This gives the route a more adventurous and untamed character, perfect for those seeking a truly immersive cycling experience.
This newly signposted route allows cyclists to explore the natural landscapes of the Region of Murcia from east to west across more than 178 kilometres. Along the way, it connects a diverse range of municipalities and regions, including Campo de Cartagena and the Guadalentín Valley. In fact, this route, ideal for cycling and manageable thanks to its moderate gradients, links eight municipalities across the region: Murcia, Cartagena, Puerto Lumbreras, Lorca, Águilas, Totana, Fuente Álamo and Mazarrón.
The Escarihuelas–Galifa section is one of the most eroded parts of the route and includes loose rocks and technical terrain. Its steep gradients provide thrilling descents for mountain bikers, although gravel riders may need to dismount and walk through certain sections. Fortunately, this stretch is less than 400 metres long and can be crossed fairly quickly. The most significant climbs and descents of the entire route are found between Cartagena and Mazarrón, and between Águilas and Lorca. Across the majority of the trail network, however, gradients remain gentle and accessible for most cyclists.
It is precisely in the Escarihuelas–Galifa area where, just a few kilometres away, visitors can stay in one of the local accommodation options and enjoy nearby beaches. From there, it is also easy to visit Cartagena, a city with more than two thousand years of history and an extraordinary archaeological heritage. Here, travellers can enjoy excellent local cuisine, particularly seafood specialities, and sample the famous Café Asiático, a traditional coffee drink found only in Cartagena and its surrounding area.
Continuing along the route, cyclists will pass beneath one of the area’s most iconic structures: the Perín Aqueduct. Nearly 240 metres long and built during the 1940s, it spans both the Benipila Rambla and the RM-E26 road. Here, history flows as naturally as the landscape itself, while cyclists experience the remarkable diversity of the region. As the wheels keep turning, lush green areas filled with trees gradually merge with more arid terrain and dryland vegetation, creating an ever-changing backdrop throughout the journey.
Fields of sunflowers, like countless miniature suns, brighten the route along parts of the trail. They serve as a reminder that life and colour can flourish even in the most unexpected places. Along the way, rocky outcrops provide stunning viewpoints overlooking farmland, agricultural plantations and small villages that add character and authenticity to the experience.
In the distance, cyclists may also catch sight of Chuecos Castle, located within the municipality of Águilas. The castle stands on the foothills of the Sierra de la Almenara, overlooking a rambla and a natural spring. Situated five kilometres from Tébar Castle, this historic fortress once guarded the communication routes connecting the city of Lorca with the port of Águilas.
One of the great advantages of the Campoder Trail Network is its ability to connect with numerous long-distance routes. Cyclists can link up with trails leading towards the province of Alicante or join routes associated with the Camino de Santiago through the Argar Route and the paths leading to Caravaca de la Cruz.
The Almendricos–Huércal Overa Greenway connects directly with the Almanzora Valley Greenways, making it possible to continue all the way to Granada. The network also intersects with sections of the EuroVelo cycle route system through the Mediterranean Route (EuroVelo 8).
Along the way, visitors will discover an eclectic variety of authentic flavours and traditional dishes that tell the stories of generations past. From inviting local aromas to renowned restaurants and traditional roadside inns, every stop becomes another memorable part of the adventure.
This is a route to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, surrounded by remarkable natural environments such as the Sierra de las Moreras, near Mazarrón, an area notable for its numerous protected habitats. Cyclists will also encounter landmarks such as the Church of San Antonio in El Saladillo, a small whitewashed chapel that reflects the simplicity and charm of the region.
Divided into 13 sections, with six different access points from which riders can begin their journey, the Campoder Trail Network mainly follows rural and natural landscapes using public tracks, livestock routes and historic pathways.
The route also crosses the La Muela–Cabo Tiñoso Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA), a coastal landscape of rugged mountain ranges and steep cliffs descending into the sea, interspersed with small coves. It is the perfect place to pause, take a swim and enjoy a refreshing break in a peaceful environment far removed from the noise and pollution of urban life.
This area is of exceptional ecological value and is home to plant species found nowhere else. Its rocky cliffs provide nesting sites for birds of prey such as the Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Peregrine Falcon and Bonelli’s Eagle, making wildlife sightings a real possibility during the ride.
In reality, any section of the route can be enjoyed independently, and cyclists can combine different trails within the Campoder Trail Network thanks to the flexible way in which the system has been designed.
We design cycling experiences so you can enjoy the adventure at your own pace.
Whether you love riding on the road, want to try an e-bike, or are looking for a great group activity, we have the route that’s right for you.
Contáctanos para personalizar tu viaje o resolver cualquier duda de tu próxima ruta.
Contact us to personalise your trip or resolve any queries about your next route.
