I hope you all had a pleasant and happy time around the Christmas and New Year holidays! We do easy walks. If you are in good health and can manage a brisk morning out sightseeing or shopping for a few hours then you can easily manage a NEST walk! We don’t go in for death–defying precipices or anything of that nerve–jangling nature! Please wear sensible footwear such as walking boots or trainers, as we do sometimes walk along uneven, rubbly, dusty dirt tracks. Bring some water and a snack to keep you going until we have our scrumptious menu del dia at an authentic Spanish restaurant or until we have our picnic. Some of our walks also involve short drives, either to the start point, or to get to a restaurant and are usually sightseeing experiences in themselves – when driving through the mountains it is possible to see wonderful wildlife. We always car share when driving in Sierra Espuña itself – it is also part of the rules for drivers in Sierra Espuña which is a protected natural park area. All are welcome – whether you're a couple or single. It’s a great way to get to know people and make friends!

If you’d like to contribute by taking us on one of your favourite walks and booking a restaurant for menu del dia, feel free to suggest it, as we’re always expanding our menu of walks and outings! The funds raised from NEST walks (now costing 5 euros), are going to benefit animals in this area. Noah’s ARC charity has benefited greatly already and other animal charities and good causes such as Animal Angels and JJ’s will also benefit. On some of the walks you can bring your own dog, as long as it’s kept on a lead. Just ask when booking if it’s a good walk from the doggie point of view. It’s a great way to meet other animal lovers!

In 2008 we can look forward to a diary packed with fun walks and outings. Those of you who have internet access can always find the upcoming walks and outings listed at www.freewebs.com/louisalivingstone/walksdatesinfo.htm where you’ll find not only the walks shown but a bit more information about the Sierra Espuña area. Here is what’s been arranged for 2008.

Thursday 31st January 2008 – Meet El Berro car Park 10.30am. Very easy short walk to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Alhama and into the far distance over Murcia, along a rubbly camino with some slight slopes. We’ll stop there for a break before walking back to the start point and then driving into the mountains of Sierra Espuña. We could see all manner of wildlife on the short drive through the mountains to one of Nest’s favourite restaurants, a place where wild boar are frequently seen at very close range.

Thursday 28th February 2008 – Almond Blossom Trail. Meet 10.30 El Berro Car Park. See the spectacular yearly show of almond blossom around El Berro before eating in a brilliant authentic Spanish restaurant near Mula for menu del dia – miss this or wait till February 2009!

To Book your place: Tel 968607927 or call or text the mobile phone 679002147. You can also book by email: natureespunatrails@gmail.com but whichever way you book, please wait for confirmation before being sure of your place – restaurant places can be limited. Your phone numbers also need taking in case of changes – a Spanish landline or a Spanish mobile that can be texted in case of last minute changes. You are also welcome to enquire about doing a private group outing or walk at a date to suit you.