Are you looking for a beautiful hike in Murcia, away from mass tourism, with spectacular sea views, historical sites, and an adventurous character? Then this hike from Portmán, near Cartagena, is definitely recommended. This circular hike combines cliffs along the Mediterranean Sea, old military forts, a Roman road, and ends with a relaxing time by the sea at El Cubano.

Practical Information – Hike Portmán

• Location: Portmán (Region of Murcia, Spain)
• Distance: Approximately 10 km
• Type: Circular hike
• Difficulty: Moderate (one steep climb)
• Duration: ± 3 – 3.5 hours (including stops)
• Starting Point: Near Playa del Lastre & Faro de Portmán
• Accessibility: ± 40 minutes drive from our apartment, via La Manga Golf Club
  

Starting Point: Playa del Lastre & Faro de Portmán

The starting point of this hike is located near Playa del Lastre and the lighthouse of Portmán (Faro de Portmán). There is a small parking area where you can leave your car.
👉 Tip: Save the beach, the lighthouse, and the Batería de La Chapa for after the hike, possibly combined with lunch or a drink at El Cubano.

From Portmán to the Forest: Roman Bridge and Tropical Path

From the parking lot at the lighthouse, walk about 150 meters back along the road you came from. You will soon see an old Roman bridge. Just before that bridge, take a narrow path on the right that climbs up between the trees. The landscape quickly changes: the path feels surprisingly green and almost tropical. You climb steadily and keep left at a Y-split. Once at the top, you will find a wooden railing, behind which are cliffs and a phenomenal view over Portmán and the Mediterranean Sea.

Cliff Walk with Panoramic Sea Views

You now walk to the left, away from the harbor and the lighthouse. On your right, you will see a “No trespassing” sign — you are not allowed to walk along the cliff edges. The path gently undulates through wooded areas and constantly offers beautiful views of the sea. Where possible, keep to the right.

Exciting Climb towards Batería Antiaérea de Negreta

After a while, the path becomes narrower and steeper. To your left is a ravine — this is the most adventurous and tiring part of the hike. The path has some rocky sections, and on the steepest part, you walk over a kind of staircase with wooden crossbeams. Take it easy: it is perfectly doable, and the reward is worth it.

Batería Antiaérea de Negreta – Military Heritage with a View

At the top, you arrive at the Batería Antiaérea de Negreta, a military structure from the 1930s. Here once stood four anti-aircraft guns, intended to intercept enemy planes flying towards the port city of Cartagena. You have free access to the building by walking through the green doors marked “Repuestos” (don’t worry, it’s safe). Once inside, you can take the stairs to a panoramic viewpoint. The view over the Mediterranean Sea is truly impressive. Be sure to take your time to look around.

Batería de La Ceniza – Fort with Views of Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea

After your visit, continue along the only path to the left. This brings you to a second military complex: Batería de La Ceniza. You first reach some buildings and eventually the back of the entrance gate, which is based on an Aztec temple from Mexico — unique in Spain. Walk under the gate, take a close look at it, and then return to keep left. You are now in the old fort, with huge cannons and lookout points overlooking La Manga, Mar Menor, and the Mediterranean Sea. This is one of the most beautiful photo spots of the entire hike.

Roman Road Back Towards Portmán

After La Ceniza, walk back under the gate downwards. The path widens and becomes more comfortable, continuing to provide beautiful views over La Manga. After a longer descent, you will reach the paved road and pass the entrance from which day tourists visit La Ceniza (there is parking across the street). Keep walking and follow the bike path along the road (further down) for about 200 meters. On the left, you will see an old Roman road that dives back into the forest. This road was used over 2000 years ago for transporting goods from Cartagena to the interior of Spain. The Roman road will eventually lead you back to a paved road. This is the section that takes you back towards the lighthouse. Follow the road for a few hundred meters (you can take sections along the path to the right of the road).

Concluding at El Cubano & Playa del Lastre

Eventually, you will return to the parking lot and the chiringuito bar El Cubano. Here, you can have something to eat or drink, change (there are changing rooms), and take a refreshing dip in the sea. Do you still have energy? Then walk on to the lighthouse of Portmán and the Batería de la Chapa to end the day.

Why This Hike in Portmán is Absolutely Worth It

• One of the most beautiful hikes in Murcia
• Combination of nature, sea, history, and adventure
• Not very touristy
• Perfectly combinable with the beach & lunch or even with a visit to Cartagena.

A must-do for those who love hiking in Spain, away from the beaten paths.