Hiking Trail, La Mena - Macenas.

Itinerary description:

The route begins at the end of the Promenade, about 7 meters above sea level, on the right bank of the mouth of the Rambla de Alfaix, near the Indalo hotel. You will advance along the old path from Mojácar to Carboneras, carved into grey Paleozoic schists, which winds along the sea by the cliffs of Sierra Cabrera. This was the old connecting route between the municipality and Carboneras, used in the past for transporting goods and supplies by pack animals. It was even used by old gasogen cars until the 1940s.

Above it, you can see the remains of the mining activity that took place at the beginning of the last century, such as old loading bays, hoppers, and mine entrances that serve as a refuge for various species of bats and birds of prey (kestrels, sparrowhawks...).

From the height at which the path runs, given the transparency of its coastal waters, we can observe the seabed and some seabirds that use the nearby islets, such as gulls or cormorants.

Further on, there is a uniquely shaped rock formation known by the locals as “Piedra del Nazareno” or “Piedra del Santo”, sculpted by geological erosion. Continuing along the path, we arrive at Playa de Macenas, where we find the fortification or defensive battery of the Castillo de Macenas, dating from the 18th century.  Heading south, we continue along the path next to the coastline, formed by large slabs of Quaternary fossil sand conglomerate. This area is protected due to its unique geological features.

Following this path, we reach the Torre del Pirulico, an old coastal watchtower; next to it is a natural stone arch that forms a site of great uniqueness and beauty. From here, we will climb a path to the viewpoints (the highest point of the route) before descending back to the castle along a trail. From here, you return by retracing your steps.