Cresta del Gallo Sierra. Panocha Peak

Cresta del Gallo is a 523-meter mountain range in the South Chain, next to the city of Murcia. The large reddish rocks on top of the mountain chain are the reason for the sierra's name: cresta de gallo, meaning "rooster comb". The largest of these rocks is a 55-meter rocky monolith known as Pico de la Panocha because of its corncob-like shape. This peak is the best known of the entire sierra, although not the highest (the 605-meter Pico del Relojero is the tallest). In a clear day it is possible to see Mar Menor from the South side of the mountain.

 

The area is perfect for many outdoor activities, including climbing, field trips (there is a moonlike landscape), picnics with the family, etc. The Cresta del Gallo area can be accessed from Beniaján, through the old lots of Tana; from Algezares, taking the road to Santuario de Nuestra Señora Virgen de la Fuensanta; and from La Alberca, going through the Valley and up the Teatinos road.