Cabezo del Carmoli Natural Reserve Viewpoint
The volcanic hill of Cabezo del Carmoli rises from the southern shore of the Mar Menor and rewards a short hike with a panorama that takes in the lagoon, the Mediterranean, La Manga and the distant Sierra Minera mountains all at once. It is one of the most dramatic coastal viewpoints in the Region of Murcia.
The Hike Up
The main trail from the car park near Los Urrutias takes around 25 minutes at a gentle pace. The path is rocky and exposed, so go early in summer and bring water — there is no shade until you reach the summit.
At the top, the contrast between the turquoise lagoon and the deep blue Mediterranean laid out either side of La Manga is genuinely jaw-dropping. Bring binoculars in spring and you may spot migrating raptors riding thermals off the hill.
Wildlife and Geology
Carmoli is part of the Espacios Naturales de la Región de Murcia and is home to rare steppe plants, Iberian wall lizards and nesting lesser kestrels. The volcanic rock underfoot is a reminder that this corner of Spain has an unusually dramatic geological history.
The salt flats visible below the hill are a protected wetland and a magnet for greater flamingos, avocets and black-winged stilts, especially from October to March when migratory birds arrive in force.
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