New mountain hostel and interpretation centre in the mountains of Jumilla nears completion

The Santa Ana hills are soon to be home to recently renovated mountain hostel

The second phase of work has begun on a project to convert the former birdlife recovery centre in the mountains of Santa Ana near Jumilla into a mountain shelter and interpretation centre, which will host exhibitions and activities for schoolchildren visiting this area of natural beauty.

Until now the building has lain idle for a number of years but now that the inside has already been refurbished and refitted work is under way to spruce up the outdoor patio area. This includes installing a variety of elements related to renaturing, environmental understanding and making the area more functional and attractive.

The intention is for this patio to be illustrative of typical natural habitats of the mountains of northern Murcia, and with this in mind shrubs and weeds have been cleared and a gravel and pine bark layer has been spread. There is to be a vertical garden featuring a vine of the Monastrell strain, which is at the heart of local wine production, and of course irrigation is required for the whole set-up.

At the same time furniture is being placed in the interior along with 10 mattresses, bedding, two bathrooms, wooden benches and solar-powered lighting.

It is hoped that the official opening of the new shelter and hostel will take place before the end of 2026, and will act as an additional attraction for visitors to the area following the news earlier this week that one of the mountain walking routes nearby has been awarded official Blue Trail status.

Images: Ayto Jumilla

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