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Step into autumn: Three of the best easy walks around La Contraparada, Murcia
Enjoy peaceful riverside paths, ancient irrigation channels and a taste of Murcia’s orchard heritage
When the fierce summer sun finally eases, the Region of Murcia takes on a gentler mood. The air cools, the colours deepen, and the same trails that were unbearable a few months ago become the perfect place for a quiet stroll.One of the most beautiful spots to enjoy this change is La Contraparada, a peaceful stretch of countryside just outside the city where the Segura River winds through lush orchards and centuries-old waterways. In autumn, its tree-lined paths and gentle riverside routes are at their best - calm, green, and full of history.
Here are three of the easiest and most rewarding walks to explore this season.
1. Follow the Aljufía irrigation canal to La Ñora
If you fancy stretching your legs a little further, this 10-kilometre route follows the Aljufía canal from La Contraparada to La Ñora, where you’ll find the famous waterwheel once pictured on old five-peseta coins.
The walk is almost completely flat and passes through classic scenes of the Murcian countryside: mills, orchards, and farmhouses that still rely on the ancient irrigation network. It’s a peaceful and fascinating route that tells the story of how Murcia’s medieval hydraulic system continues to shape life in the Segura Valley today.
2. A riverside wander along the Segura
For something shorter but equally rewarding, the Segura river walk offers around 5 kilometres of easy terrain between Javalí Nuevo and Javalí Viejo.
The circular route combines shaded riverbank paths, small wooden bridges and even a viewpoint over a forest of poplars and aspens. It’s popular with locals and perfect for a relaxed hour’s stroll, a spot of birdwatching, or even a picnic by the water. The total elevation gain is only 28 metres, making it suitable for everyone.
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3. The La Contraparada Trail
The most accessible of the three, the La Contraparada Trail (SL-MU-27) is a circular 2-kilometre route with barely 11 metres of elevation. It begins near the Visitor Centre, where you’ll find information and a video guide highlighting points of interest along the way.
You’ll pass the Azud Mayor, cross the Aljufía and Alquibla channels, and stroll over the wooden Puente de las Ovejas (Sheep Bridge), which connects both banks of the Segura. The round trip takes around 40 minutes and is clearly signposted - a perfect family walk or gentle cycle to soak up the fresh autumn air.
Although the GR-127 long-distance trail also passes through La Contraparada, it’s better suited to experienced hikers. For most visitors, these three routes offer the perfect mix of history, scenery and calm and, of course, a chance to enjoy the changing season in one of Murcia’s most symbolic and serene landscapes.
You might also be interested in: Discover Murcia's greenways: cycle and hike from coast to mountains
Image: FGA/Googlemaps
