Exploring Cabo Tiñoso: A Hidden Gem Near Cartagena
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in southern Spain, Cabo Tiñoso is the perfect destination. We only discovered this unique location earlier this year, and we’ve lived here for 6 years now!
With rugged cliffs, abandoned military forts, and stunning sea views, this hidden gem near Cartagena offers a mix of history, hiking, and some of the most amazing scenery.
If you’re looking for a new spot to explore, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Cabo Tiñoso…
How to get there
Cabo Tiñoso is located about 30km west of Cartagena in the Murcia region. It’s definitely not the easiest place to fine, but that means fewer crowds!
Here are the best ways to get there:
- By Car: The most convenient way is to drive. From Cartagena, take the RM-E23 road towards La Azohía, then follow the winding road up to Batería de Castillitos. The last stretch is narrow with steep drops, so drive carefully!
- By Hiking: If you’re up for a challenge, you can hike up to the fortress from La Azohía. The trail offers incredible views, but it’s a very steep and rocky route, so make sure you wear proper hiking shoes.
- By Boat or Kayak: Some visitors choose to explore the coastline by kayak or boat, which is a great way to see hidden coves and sea caves.
Things to see & do
Visit Batería de Castillitos (Castillitos Battery)
This is the main attraction of Cabo Tiñoso, it’s like stepping into a real-life medieval fortress – except it was actually built in the 1930s as part of Spain’s coastal defence. It’s quite strange as it feels like it should be old and abandoned, but up close it all looks quite new.
The fort has huge naval guns, once used to protect the coast which kids (even teens like ours!) will love to climb on.
You can walk along the castle turrets and take some great photos of the surrounding scenery with some of the best views across the Mediterranean.
There’s no entrance or parking fees, and you can explore the fort at your own pace.
Discover Other Military Batteries
Cabo Tiñoso was an important defensive site for the Spanish military, and there are a few other fortifications here worth visiting:
- Batería del Jorel is similar to Castillitos but with fewer visitors, offering amazing cliffside views.
- Batería de la Chapa is more remote and less preserved, but great for adventurers wanting to explore a bit further.
Hiking & Nature Trails
If you love hiking, this is definitely a good spot for you to explore. It’s part of the Sierra de la Muela, Cabo Tiñoso y Roldán Natural Park, with untouched nature, wildlife, and amazing landscapes. It’s a very peaceful location.
Popular trails include:
- La Azohía to Castillitos – A challenging but rewarding hike with sea views all the way.
- Cliffside Trails – Walk along the coast and spot eagles, mountain goats, and even dolphins if you’re lucky!
Tip: Go early or late in the day as there’s not much shade, and it gets very hot in summer.
Swim & Snorkel in Hidden Coves
The coastline around Cabo Tiñoso is full of small, secluded coves with crystal-clear water. Perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just relaxing.
Some top spots include:
- Cala Cerrada – A tiny, hidden beach with turquoise waters.
- Cala Aguilar – A rocky cove great for snorkelling.
- La Azohía & Isla Plana – Small seaside villages nearby with sandy beaches and a few beachfront bars.
If you have a kayak or paddleboard, exploring the coastline this way is a must.
When is the best time to visit?
We visited Cabo Tiñoso in Spring, when the weather was warm and sunny, and the perfect temperature for wandering around.
- Spring & Autumn are perfect for hiking and exploring without the intense heat.
- Summer is great for swimming and coastal adventures, but it gets very hot.
- Winter is much more quiet and peaceful, but some roads may be closed due to weather.
Practical Tips for Visiting Cabo Tiñoso
If you are visiting make sure you follow these tips for a safe and comfortable visit:
- Wear good shoes – Many paths are rocky and steep.
- Bring water & snacks – There are no shops or cafés at Castillitos or the hiking trails but plenty of benches to sit and rest.
- Check road conditions – The road to Castillitos is narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
- Take your time – Cabo Tiñoso isn’t a place to rush. Enjoy the views, explore the forts, and soak in the atmosphere.
Cabo Tiñoso is one of the most unique places near Cartagena. Whether you’re into history, hiking, or just want to find an epic viewpoint, it’s well worth the trip. If you love hidden gems and spectacular landscapes, put this on your Spain bucket list!
Have you visited Cabo Tiñoso? What was your favourite part? Let us know in the comments!
