Rolling out from the high mountain air of Santiago de la Espada, the route heads east, crossing the rugged border between Andalusia and the Region of Murcia. The initial miles follow steep gravel double-tracks before tackling the technical ascent up the Puerto del Mosquito. Here, the track hits exposed limestone crests with expansive views stretching across the isolated peaks of the northwestern highlands. Dense pine forests reappear as the trail enters the Sierra de Moratalla, dropping through deep rocky ravines and dry washes. Rough forestry tracks gradually transition into dirt paths winding past ancient almond terraces and isolated stone farms. The day finishes with a sweeping descent into Moratalla, a town cascading down a hillside beneath its medieval fortress.
