The Sierra del Segura's Commitment to Ecotourism
More than just nature—a covenant with life
Preserving the mountains, sharing their essence
The Sierra del Segura is a unique place where nature and culture are preserved through a model of sustainable development. More than half of its territory is protected, notably the Calares del Mundo y de la Sima Natural Park, which is part of the Natura 2000 network. Here, the mountains, valleys, and biodiversity are the main assets for enjoying authentic, committed, and responsible ecotourism. Through the Tourism Sustainability Plan, efforts are being made to ensure that tourism serves as a tool for conserving the environment and improving the local quality of life.
The Sierra del Segura is a region that has successfully transformed its natural and cultural wealth into a sustainable way of life. Here, conservation is not just a goal, but a daily practice. The residents live in harmony with the mountains, rivers, and forests that set the rhythm of life, and tourism is seen as a way to share, care for, and build a future.
More than half of the territory is protected under various conservation designations, including the Calares del Mundo y de la Sima Natural Park, the Sierra de las Cabras Nature Reserve, and the large Natura 2000 site “Sierra de Alcaraz y Segura and Cañones del Segura y del Mundo SPA/SAC.” These landscapes—featuring karstic reliefs, canyons, caves, and sinkholes—are home to more than 1,300 species of flora and 170 of fauna: mountain goats, golden eagles, otters, and bearded vultures soar over forests of black pine, juniper, and holm oak. In spring, water takes center stage: crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and springs that bring life to the Mundo, Tus, and Segura valleys.
The conservation network is complemented by micro-reserves, fishing shelters, and marked trails that allow visitors to enjoy the environment without disrupting its balance. The Management Plan for the Natura 2000 Network SPA/SAC Sierra de Alcaraz y Segura and Cañones del Segura y del Mundo establishes conservation objectives, areas for compatible use, and measures to maintain ecosystems and traditional activities. Management relies on the participation of local councils, associations, and residents, making sustainability a shared commitment.But the Sierra del Segura also looks to the future. Through the Sierra del Segura Tourism Sustainability Plan – Sustainable Tourism Destination, co-financed with European funds, projects are being developed that combine innovation, tourism, and the environment:- A regional electric bicycle service with stations in the main towns and at natural landmarks.- The installation of charging stations for electric vehicles and RV parking areas along scenic routes.- And improvements in energy efficiency in accommodations, visitor centers, and public buildings.
At the same time, the region is participating in Albacete’s Circular Tourism Plan, which promotes a greener and more participatory model. Its lines of action range from efficient waste management and reducing plastic use to training in the circular economy, promoting local products, and implementing eco-labels in tourist establishments. The plan also includes measuring the carbon footprint of tourism and implementing measures to reduce it.