This is one of the route’s big coastal stages. After Águilas come pale coves, dry hills and small towns such as San Juan de los Terreros, Garrucha and Mojácar. Beyond Carboneras, the landscape turns wilder: steep rock faces, empty roads and views towards Playa de los Muertos. Then Cabo de Gata-Níjar begins, with Agua Amarga, Las Negras, Rodalquilar and Los Escullos along the way. Volcanic rock, dust, sea and wind shape the final kilometres into San José.
