The Colour Palette of Moratalla
When most people think of Spain, images of sun, sea, and vast beaches prevail. Although the southern region—particularly the coastal areas—is indeed almost always sun-drenched, Spain has a much richer and more surprising landscape to offer. The abundance of sunshine often suggests that it never gets cold here. This is a misconception: in autumn, temperatures, especially in the early morning hours and in the higher areas of Southern Spain, can drop significantly, sometimes even to well below freezing.
The south certainly experiences autumn, but the most recognisable European autumn scenes —the spectacular discolouration of deciduous forests— are much rarer here. Nevertheless, these spots exist, and they offer a visual spectacle that is worth discovering.
The village of El Sabinar in Moratalla shortly after sunset
Discover Moratalla
Where Can You Find Autumn Colours in Murcia? The most autumn scenes in the Murcia region can be found in the northwestern part, for example, around the municipality of Moratalla. Moratalla, itself located at an altitude of approximately 800 metres, harbours zones where nature undergoes a true metamorphosis in autumn. The photos capturing this phenomenon are often taken in areas lying between 1,200 and 1,500 metres above sea level. In these highlands, you can observe the classic European autumn process: the leaves of the trees gradually change colour from vibrant green, through bright yellow and orange, to deep brown, before they fall.
Linden trees at the source of the Alhárabe river (El Sabinar)
The Role of the Poplar (‘Chopo’) and Water
The most prominent carriers of this seasonal splendour are the poplars (known locally as “Chopos”) and sometimes the linden trees. These trees are rarely found in the dry, pine-forest-dominated rest of the region. They thrive exclusively along small rivers or in places where a constant water supply is assured.
Although winter has not yet begun, it can also be very cold during the day in autumn
A perfect example of this is along the Alhárabe river, which originates in the picturesque village of El Sabinar. The springs near Bajil, a small hamlet nestled in a green valley, also form a lifeline for these deciduous trees, making the Moratalla autumn colours visible year after year.
The place where the little river Alharabe rises
The Climate and the Rarity of Mushrooms
Although the higher terrain of Moratalla displays a palette of colours in autumn, the Mediterranean climate of Southern Spain, particularly in the lower part of the region, remains dominated by coniferous forests that do not change colour.
Autumn colours in the small hamlet of Bajil
This dry climate also affects the presence of another typical autumn phenomenon: mushrooms. Mushrooms are rare here. When you do encounter them, it is often just a single specimen. The great variety of species found in the forests of Northern Spain or Central Europe is absent here.
If there is enough water, foliage trees can grow there.
Anyone in Southern Spain looking for a more varied mushroom harvest must venture further into the interior, towards the even higher and cooler mountain areas, or continue the journey to the humid and green regions in the northern part of the country.
Autumn in the small hamlet of Bajil in the municipality of Moratalla
More Than Sun, Sea, and Sand
In short, autumn in Southern Spain is a surprise that requires patience and a detour, but which rewards the visitor in the Moratalla highlands with a unique and peaceful visual experience.
Ready to explore the hidden beauty of Moratalla or planning your trip to the sunny Region of Murcia? We’re here to help! Contact us today for detailed information, personalized recommendations, and insider tips.
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