The Rio Seco Nature Reserve stands as a hidden gem of geology and biodiversity, nestled on the outskirts of Pinar de Campoverde in Pilar de la Horadada, located at the southernmost tip of the Alicante Region.
This reserve offers well-marked walking routes that are easy to follow, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll and a breath of fresh air.
Take a look at our short video on Youtube:
Geology of the Rio Seco
The Rio Seco walking route guides you through a sandstone canyon with stunning yellowish cliffs.
These cliffs display captivating formations created by erosion, revealing numerous layers containing a rich concentration of fossils.
In the Pliocene (2-5 millions years ago), the area would have been located on a shallow platform very close to the coastline where occasional storms would have deposited layers of shells.
Fauna of the Rio Seco
To truly appreciate the diverse wildlife along the route, it's important to be patient and move quietly. You might catch sight of a kingfisher or a bee-eater and delight in the melodies of the nightingale and blackbird. Nearby, a curious robin might be exploring just a few meters away. The route is also home to a wide array of species, including royal and little owls, booted eagles, short-toed and common buzzards, kestrels, tawny owls, hoopoes, and coal tits. Additionally, you could encounter hedgehogs, rabbits, ocellated lizards, and long-tailed lizards, among many other invertebrates, forming an extensive collection of wildlife.
Flora of the Rio Seco
The Río Seco is the last refuge for species connected to river ecosystems in the local area area.
Rosemary, thyme, mastic trees, white brooms, and dwarf palms line the route, accompanied by reeds and bulrushes.
Carob trees, tamarisks, brooms, ephedras, and esparto grass are just a glimpse of the diverse plant life that thrives along the route
El Pegaso Sculpture
One of the reserve's most enchanting features is the iconic sculpture of El Pegaso. This magnificent representation of the mythical winged horse stands as a harmonious bridge between human creativity and the natural world. Against the backdrop of the reserve's beauty, El Pegaso serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnection between artistic expression and the environment.
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The Rio Seco Walking Routes
The Rio Seco Nature Reserve offers a series of well-maintained walking routes that cater to a variety of preferences and fitness levels. From casual strolls to more invigorating hikes, there's a path for everyone to enjoy.
There are two main routes to take. A shorter, circular route which is shown in the linked map below.
Alternatively the longer route Continues all the way to the coast at Mil Palmeras.
Conservation
Beyond its aesthetic allure, the Rio Seco Nature Reserve serves as a hub for conservation efforts. Volunteers and dedicated researchers work tirelessly to protect the delicate balance of this ecosystem. Moreover, the reserve offers educational opportunities to visitors, shedding light on the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
Some Recommendations:
- Make sure not to leave any waste or litter in the areas you visit.If you come across any litter please, help the local volunteers, and pick it up. There are bins at the Polideportivo.
- Try to move along the route as quietly as possible; staying silent will prevent scaring away animals and provide you with the chance to make more interesting observations.
- A pair of binoculars and a camera will aid you in enjoying and understanding nature better.
- If you're walking with a dog, please keep it on a lead so that it doesn't disturb the animals. It is against the law to let your dog off of a lead.
- Wear a hat and take plenty of drinking water. Some areas lack shade and can be dry and hot.
- Wear reasonably stout shoes. Walking boots are not a necessity, however we recommend at least wearing trainers or walking sandals.
A Warning:
Beware that in the event of a very heavy rain storm such as a Gota Fria, the river bed could be liable to flash flooding. Following such a storm the canyon is likely to be full of debris. I have seen large up-rooted trees blocking paths and debris caught in branches as high as 2 meters from the ground.
These storms are very rare and it is unlikely that anyone would want to be out walking in one, however, the damage following a such a storm may take a long time to clear. If you do visit following a storm, wear suitable clothes and be prepared that pathways may be blocked or damaged.
Please help the volunteers by taking some bags and collecting as much of the rubbish that will have been left by the flooding as you can.