Duration: Roughly five hours.
The majority of this route lacks a defined path, making a compass an essential tool for navigation.
The quaint village of Senés serves as our starting point. From here, we'll head north towards the imposing Safi cliff, ascending the mountainside. Maintaining a northeast direction, we'll journey across the same elevation until we reach the Molinos brook. This brook guides us through a gorge carved by the flowing waters of the River Laroya. Following the river's course through the valley, we'll eventually come upon the historic quarters of high and low Reúl, and further on, the Laroya brook.
This trek is not only visually stunning, with its panoramic mountain vistas and lush valleys, but it also presents a challenge in terms of orientation. The lack of a detailed map adds an element of adventure to the experience, as trekkers must rely on their compass and instincts to traverse the rugged terrain.
Senes is a charming village situated in the southern foothills of the Sierra de los Filabres in Almeria, Andalusia. Perched at an altitude of 995 meters, it lies approximately 50 kilometers from the provincial capital, Almeria. The village is home to around 288 residents, offering a serene mountain retreat.
The name Senes is thought to originate from the Iberian root 'zen-aiz', which translates to 'rock of the dead', likely in reference to the prehistoric burial megaliths found nearby. Senes is part of the picturesque GR-244 trail that winds through the inner villages of Almeria and is known for its stunning almond blossom routes come February.
With a history dating back to prehistoric times, evidenced by megalithic burial structures in the area, Senes has seen continuous habitation through the Roman era and the medieval period of Andalusia. Its landscape has been shaped by traditional agriculture and ancient hydraulic constructions such as mines, cisterns, and aqueducts.
Today, Senes attracts those who wish to immerse themselves in its natural splendor, explore historical landmarks, and enjoy the peacefulness of rural Andalusia.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/E37nk1xqVmMXJ5248
Laroya is a tranquil and picturesque municipality located in the southern part of the Almanzora Valley, within the province of Almeria, Andalusia. Nestled in the Sierra de los Filabres at an altitude of 872 meters, Laroya is about 75 kilometers from the provincial capital, Almeria, and boasts a population of approximately 198 residents.
The municipality includes the population centers of Laroya, El Arroyo Franco y Estella, and Reul Alto. The local economy primarily revolves around rural tourism, agriculture with a focus on almond cultivation, and livestock farming, particularly sheep and goats.
Laroya is known for its hiking trails approved by the Andalusian Mountaineering Federation, such as the PR-A 366 "Los Molinos de Laroya" and the PR-A 372 "Reul Alto", which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the region's rich natural environment.
The cultural heritage of Laroya is highlighted by its 17th-century Parish Church with Mudejar style and the Ethnographic Museum El Molino, which provides insights into the local history and traditions. Strolling through its streets lined with whitewashed houses and discovering its Moorish origins is an activity that transports visitors back in time.
For those interested in the charm of rural life and the history of Andalusia, Laroya presents a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural traditions, and local gastronomy, making it a captivating destination for travellers.
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