19 October, 2021
Strait of Arboleja
This is, without a doubt, a breathtaking natural setting and one of my favourite spots in the central area of the Region of Murcia. Even more, if we take into account the aridity of the surrounding area near the municipality of Aledo. It is also known as the Cerrada de la Agualeja or Algualeja. It is a narrow canyon with vertical walls up to 20 meters high and sections that narrow down to a meter and a half. Millions of years of watercourse have been necessary for its genesis. Its characteristics practically prevent the direct entry of the sun, at most a timid beam of light that manages to increase the magic of the place. This peculiar environment has generated a “microclimate” with a humid atmosphere favourable for the growth of ferns, mosses, lichens and even ancient speleothems due to the precipitation of drops of water on the calcareous walls.
With several hundred meters of route, the Strait is part of the Lébor’s watercourse, halfway up from it. Following it upstream, it also connects with The Mills watercourse, while downstream, it takes us to La Bastida.
Human activity has also modified the environment over the centuries. Along the way, we find the presence of curious pipes, wells or sewages and galleries that, without detracting from the beauty of the place, were made to collect and use the waters that flow through the canyon.
AUTHOR: Carlos Velasco
In the first few meters, we can see how the path to ascend narrows and, especially in summer, the microclimate welcomes us with a steep drop in temperature, accompanied by a pleasant sensation of cool humidity.
Already immersed in all its splendour, we feel that we have moved to another place. The sandstone and calcareous walls are covered with intense green vegetation. Keep an eye on the ground, do not harm the amphibian reptiles that inhabit the place!
Depending on the season or time you visit the place, some areas will have more or less water. Come prepared if you want to complete the tour; it’s worth it!
Soaking your feet in the water is especially delightful in the centre of the Murcia region in the summer months.
I have always liked to remain silent inside the Strait, simply contemplating, smelling, observing, listening or even reading.
Some speleothems typical of the precipitation of drops and threads of water on the calcareous walls.
Respect its inhabitants. Let’s take care of biodiversity!
In the eroded sandstones, shells and starfish emerge that remind us that this place was millions of years ago, under the sea. But, please do not take them! Instead, take only the memory, take only photos and videos, and leave only your footprints!
