SIERRA DEL CARCHE
La Sierra del Carche is a mountain range located in the northern part of the province of Murcia, Spain. It is a protected area, declared as a Regional Park in 2001. La Sierra is known for its beautiful scenery, including its pine forests, limestone cliffs, and panoramic views. The Sierra de Las Pansas is a beautiful and diverse place to hike.
TIPS FOR HIKING IN EL CARCHE and LA SIERRA DE LAS PANSAS
Wherever you hike in this area, it is important to be prepared for the weather conditions. The summers tend be hot and dry, so it is important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The winters can be cold and wet, so it is important to dress appropriately. Additional hiking tips include respecting the environment and leaving no trace of your visit
More About El Carche
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HISTORY
La Sierra del Carche has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and there have been a number of different settlements over the centuries. There are a number of archaeological sites in the area, including the Cave of the Painted Hands, which contains cave paintings dating back to 20,000 years ago.
The Romans were the first to build roads in La Sierra, and they also built a number of fortifications. The Moors later conquered the area, and they built a number of castles and fortifications including the Castillo de Lorca and the Castillo de Puerto Lumbreras.
In the 13th century it was conquered by the Christian forces of King Ferdinand III of Castile. The area was then repopulated by Christians, and a number of villages were founded. In the Middle Ages, the Sierra was a popular hunting ground for the Spanish nobility. There are a number of hunting lodges from this period still in the area.
The mountain range was not only an important source of wood and water for the surrounding villages, but it was also used for grazing livestock.
In the 19th century, the Sierra became a popular destination for tourists. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in the area.
GEOGRAPHICAL POINTS OF INTEREST
La Sierra del Carche and La Sierra de Las Pansas is a beautiful place to visit. With its varied scenery and geographical features, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the most popular geographical points of interest in the Sierra de Las Pansas include:
Fuente de las Pansas – Casa de la Ermita:This easy trail is ideal for families and beginners. It starts at the Fuente de las Pansas (Fountain of the Pansas) and winds its way through the pine forests to the Casa de la Ermita (Hermitage House). The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Barranco del Saltaor (Saltaor Ravine): This ravine is one of the most beautiful places in the Sierra. It is home to a number of waterfalls, pools, and rock formations.
Sierra del Carche: This challenging trail takes you to the summit of the highest peak in the Sierra de Las Pansas. The hike is steep and strenuous, but the views from the top are worth it as it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cueva de las Manos Pintadas (Cave of the Painted Hands): This cave contains cave paintings dating back to 20,000 years ago. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in La Sierra de Las Pansas.
Ruinas del Castillo de Alhama (Ruins of Alhama Castle): This castle was built by the Moors in the 13th century. It was destroyed by the Christians in the 15th century. The ruins of the castle offer stunning views of the town of Alhama de Murcia and the surrounding countryside.
El Castillo de la Concepción: This castle was built by the Moors in the 11th century, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Sendero del Mirador de la Cresta: This trail offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding valleys.
Sendero del Pino Grande: This trail takes you to the Pino Grande (Big Pine Tree), the oldest and largest pine tree in the Sierra.
Sendero del Barranco de los Conejos: This trail follows the Barranco de los Conejos (Rabbit Ravine) through a beautiful canyon.
Sendero del Barranco de la Hoz: This trail follows the Barranco de la Hoz (Hoz Ravine) through a narrow gorge.