Outings in Mazarron - Aguilas via Lomo de Bas |
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DIFFICULTY:- A GOOD GRAVEL ROAD WHICH TWISTS THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS. A LONG ROUTE OF ABOUT 16KM WITH SOME STEEP STRETCHES. |
This is an outing best explored by motor car if you don't mind using gravel roads or bicycle for the fit; consider the length of the journey. The road was renovated in 1999 and is in good condition but should not be tackled in bad weather or after heavy rain.
The starting point is on the main Mazarrón to Aguilas road N-332 almost exactly 18Km from Mazarrón. As you get near the start point you will travel along a straight stretch of road with a filling station in the right, then over a bridge for the Rio Amir; then you will encounter a twisty bit passing through Ermita de Ramonete with it's distinctive white church. Shortly after this take a left turn over a small bridge which may be signposted "Cabo Cope".
The journey into the mountains of Lomo De Bas starts on gently rising ground which is well cultivated, but after about 2Km the true ascent starts as the road starts to twist it's way upwards with an ever increasing gradient. Although a gravel road, it is quite wide and vehicles can pass in most places without difficulty.
A further 2Km of careful driving will bring you to the summit, not far from the peak of Lomo de Bas at 481 metres altitude. Higher peaks in the same mountains lie to the North West; Yegua Blanca towers to nearly 650 metres. There is a telephone tower here and it is worth stopping to admire the fantastic view up and down the coast. To the West you will see Cabo Cope, Aguilas and beyond; to the East is Mazarron Bay and Cabo Tiñoso.

You have now crossed the ridge of Lomo de Bas and the road is now more friendly, winding its way West following the coastline but never approaching it. The elevated position of the track gives you an eagle's eye view of bays and beaches that would be difficult or impossible to reach from the land - the only way would be by boat.
As the road descends gradually the surroundings change from mountain
screed to the more familiar agricultural scene. There are practically
no buildings on the journey although you may catch a glimpse of an abandoned
cottage or farmhouse near to the distant coastline. Eventually you will
reach some civilization at the hamlet of Garrobilio - just a few scattered
cottages and no facilities. But by now you are getting near Aguilas;
after passing through Garrobilio the road divides and you can take the
left turn to go into Aguilas or the right to join the N332 again and
find your way home.
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