The body of a 71-year-old hiker who had been reported missing has been recovered in a remote natural area between Albatera and Orihuela.

The man left his home in Crevillent at around 11am on Monday, intending to complete a walking route nearby. When he did not return that evening, his wife alerted the Guardia Civil, which began a search operation and notified neighbouring police forces.

On Tuesday morning, officers found his vehicle parked on a rural track close to the Sierra de Albatera. A major search operation was launched, involving Guardia Civil units from Crevillent and Dolores, a drone team, the Mountain Rescue Group from Valencia, Albatera Local Police and firefighters from Elche.

The man’s body was discovered later that afternoon in the Rambla Salada area, a hiking route in rugged terrain. Authorities have said there were no signs of violence and early indications suggest the death was accidental. An investigation is continuing to establish the exact circumstances.