The total time for this hike is approximately six hours, making it a full day's adventure.
The journey begins in the charming town of Huéneja. Nestled in the province of Granada, Andalusia, Huéneja is a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance. The town is situated on the northern slope of the Sierra Nevada, forming part of its Natural Park, and is perched at an impressive altitude of 1,158 meters.
Huéneja's rich history dates back to the time of Muslim domination when a group of Yemenites settled here. The town's name, derived from the Arabic word 'wana"ya' or 'güéneya', translates to 'lyre', possibly a reference to the shape of the terrain where it is situated.
From Huéneja, the journey continues towards Granada. After crossing the river, the path veers to the right, leading into the heart of the mountains. This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the region and immerse oneself in its rich history and culture.
The Baños Árabes de Huéneja are a point of interest and partially hidden within a group of houses. It follows the model of an Arab bath typical of the rural Nasrid world. Their construction dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries, with a location that is conditioned by the layout of the irrigation ditch that supplied it with water, and of which part of its layout is still observed next to the baths.
Externally, only the vaults are intuited, since it is masked in other buildings. Thanks to this and the solid construction fabric, the building is in good condition[^1^][2].
For a more detailed view of the starting point in Huéneja Town and the route to the mountains, you can refer to this map.
Up to this point, the track runs through an area densely covered in chestnuts and oaks. These trees provide a canopy that shades the humid area, creating a cool and pleasant hiking environment.
After walking for about 2 km, we head southeastwards to link up with another track. This track ascends along a spur towards a hill, where there is a junction that branches off into seven tracks. We take a track that rises very slightly at first, and then becomes a valley towards the southeast.
The journey leads to the El Roble shelter (also known as Vivac el Doctor), a haven nestled in the heart of the mountains. This shelter serves as a serene pit stop for hikers, offering a chance to rest and refuel amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're packing a picnic or simply taking a moment to enjoy the tranquillity, the El Roble shelter provides the perfect respite from the day's hike.
Location: map
But the adventure doesn't end at the shelter. From El Roble, the trail continues southwest, leading to the Peñones del Mediodía. This stretch of the journey offers a change of scenery, with the landscape unfolding to reveal the majestic Peñones del Mediodía. As you navigate this part of the trail, you'll be rewarded with stunning views that are a testament to the natural beauty of the region.
At this point in the journey, a crossing to the left and eastwards leads to the majestic Cerro del Almirez. This mountain, standing tall at an altitude of 2,514 meters, is the second highest peak in the Sierra Nevada Almeriense, following the Chullo. It is easily identified by its characteristic double summit, with the northeast peak being the highest at 2,514 meters and the southwest peak slightly lower at 2,511 meters.
The Cerro del Almirez is not just a mountain, it's a natural wonder that offers a unique hiking experience. The climb, though challenging, is well worth the effort. As you ascend, you'll navigate through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountain terrain. And when you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view that stretches as far as the eye can see.
For a more detailed view of the Cerro del Almirez and its surroundings, you can refer to this map.
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