Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park
The westernmost area of Sierra Morena is a gently sloping eroded plane, broken by calcareous massifs, some with caves, the most outstanding of which is the Gruta de las Maravillas in Aracena, with visitable galleries extending over more than a kilometre.
The first part of the route takes us through landscapes of meadows and holm oaks and, in the wetter areas, cork oaks; in these meadows, and in general in all those through which this route passes, the acclaimed Iberian pig is raised. From Hinojales to Cortegana the scenery undergoes a considerable change; the grey-green colours of the pasture lands are replaced by the bright greens of the chestnuts in summer, or by the pinks and browns of autumn and winter. This is the wettest part and has a wealth of water sources, springs and streams of renowned purity.
In Fuenteheridos the gardens of Villa Onuba may be visited to see the trees as interesting as the Spanish fir or the sequoia. In addition to the chestnuts, this area also has fruit orchards in the valleys of the rivers, producing an abundance of pears, apples and pippins. Leaving Cortegana behind, the land is flat with pasture lands and moors as far as Aroche where black vultures are often sighted. To round off the route, the views from the hermitage of Our Lady Los Angeles in Alájar, on the rock of Arias Montano are excellent.
Sta. Olalla de Cala
Known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, this area offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore medieval castles, enjoy scenic hikes, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
- Santa Olalla Castle: A medieval castle with panoramic views of the surrounding area. This castle, built in the 13th century, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. (Map)
- Natural Park of Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche: This natural park is a haven for nature lovers, offering numerous hiking trails, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking scenery. (Map)
Arroyomolinos de León
Arroyomolinos de León is a quaint village in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park in Huelva. This village is celebrated for its scenic hiking trails and traditional architecture. Visitors can enjoy various hiking routes, explore the charming Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, and experience the beauty of rural Andalusia.
- Inicio Sendero Pico Bonales: This hiking trail starts in the village and leads to the Pico Bonales, the highest peak in Huelva. The route offers stunning views and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. (Map)
- Las Pasajeras: A scenic hiking route that takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers breathtaking views. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Map)
- Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios: A charming hermitage located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. This site is not only a place of religious significance but also a great spot for photography and relaxation. (Map)
Cañaveral de León
Known for its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere, this area is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, bird watching, and picnics by the lagoon.
- Laguna de Cañaveral: An artificial lagoon that serves as a natural swimming pool. This picturesque lagoon is a popular spot for locals and visitors to cool off during the hot summer months. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a serene setting for a relaxing day out. (Map)
- Mirador de El Puerto: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a charming spot to visit and enjoy the natural surroundings. (Map)
- Plaza De España: The central square of the village, where much of the cultural and festive life of Cañaveral de León takes place. The square is beautifully paved with stones of different shades, creating intricate designs. (Map)
Hinojales
Hinojales is a picturesque village located in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park in Huelva. This area offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
- Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Consolación: A historic church with beautiful architecture. This church, dating back to the 16th century, is a fine example of the region's religious heritage and features stunning architectural details. (Map)
- Camino de Hinojales: A scenic hiking route that takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers breathtaking views. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Map)
- Sendero de Sierra Morena: A long-distance hiking trail that traverses the Sierra Morena, offering diverse landscapes and a chance to see various wildlife. This trail is perfect for those looking to explore the natural and cultural heritage of Hinojales and the surrounding areas. (Map)
Los Marines
Los Marines is a picturesque village located in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park in Huelva. Renowned for its lush chestnut forests, which are particularly stunning in the autumn when the leaves change colour.
- Paseo Murales de la Sierra: This unique walkway features ceramic murals representing the 29 villages of the Sierra de Aracena. It's a charming spot to learn about the local culture and enjoy a leisurely stroll. (Map)
- Sendero Circular Las Guijarras SL-A 356: A circular hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Map)
- Chestnut Forest: A lush forest known for its chestnut trees, especially beautiful in autumn. This forest is a perfect spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the vibrant colours of the season. (Description of the route)
Fuenteheridos
Visitors can explore beautiful gardens, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and discover the unique flora of the region.
- Villa Onuba Gardens: Gardens featuring unique trees like the Spanish fir and sequoia. These gardens are a botanical treasure, showcasing a variety of rare and exotic trees. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and appreciating the beauty of nature. (Map)
- Sendero El Bosque Encantado: A scenic hiking trail that takes you through a diverse and enchanting forest. This trail is perfect for nature lovers and offers a peaceful escape into the wilderness. (Route)
- Sendero Circular Fuenteheridos a Castaño de Robledo: A circular hiking route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Route)
- El Madroñal, Camping y Alojamientos: A campsite offering a unique experience in a forest of centenary chestnut trees. The site includes pitches, bungalows, cabins, and rural houses, providing a perfect base for exploring the natural park. (Website)
Galaroza
Galaroza is known for its charming streets and historic landmarks, offering a delightful blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- Fuente de los Doce Caños: A historic fountain with twelve spouts. This fountain is a significant landmark in the village, providing fresh spring water and serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. (Map)
- Sendero Ribera de Jabugo: A scenic hiking trail that connects Galaroza with Castaño del Robledo, following the course of the Múrtiga River. This trail offers beautiful views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Map)
- Sendero Galaroza - Castaño del Robledo: A picturesque hiking route that takes you through lush forests and along the Ribera de Jabugo. This trail is perfect for nature lovers and offers a peaceful escape into the wilderness. (Map)
- Presa del Salto de Santa Teresa: It's a great spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. (Map)
El Repilado
Renowned for its production of Iberian ham, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
- Casino Serrano El Repilado: A bar-cafeteria in the Sierra de Aracena, offering grilled Iberian meats, tapas, and homemade desserts. It's a great place to experience local cuisine and hospitality. (Map)
- El Repilado - Canaleja - Los Romeros: A beautiful and fun linear hiking route, from point to point or back and forth from the Jabugo-Galaroza train station, in the Sierra de Aracena and Pico de Aroche Natural Park. The route mixes river, landscapes, nature, trail areas, forest, steeper and more daring sections and some stretch of asphalt road. (Route)
- Ruta 3 Verde: Sendero de Navalhermosa - El Repilado: A pleasant round-trip linear hiking route between the Huelva towns of Galaroza and Cortelazor, within the wonderful Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. The route begins at the Information Center of the Navahermosa - El Repilado Trail, and continues through wooded areas until reaching Cortelazor, enjoying the nature of the area. (Route)
Cortegana
Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and scenic beauty.
- Cortegana Castle: A well-preserved medieval castle with stunning views. This 13th-century castle is a prominent landmark in the village, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the area's medieval past. (Map)
- Senda Tierra Blanca: A scenic hiking route that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. This trail is perfect for nature lovers looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Route)
- Inicio Sendero SL-A 368 "Los Molinos de Cortegana": A picturesque hiking trail that takes you through the historic water mills of Cortegana. This route is ideal for those interested in both nature and history. (Route)
- La Posada de Cortegana: A traditional inn offering a taste of local hospitality and cuisine. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local flavours. (Map)
Aroche
This area is rich in archaeological sites and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore ancient ruins and learn about the region's fascinating history.
- Roman Ruins: Ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the region's history. These well-preserved ruins provide insight into the Roman presence in the area and are a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology. (Map)
- Castle of Aroche: A medieval castle that stands as a testament to the village's historical significance. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for photography. (Map)
- Fuente de la Micaela: A charming and historic fountain located in a picturesque setting. The Fuente de la Micaela is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The fountain is known for its clear, refreshing water and is a great place to take a break during a day of exploring Aroche. (Map)
Almonaster la Real
Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, this area offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
- Castle of Almonaster: A medieval castle that provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is a significant historical landmark and offers a great spot for photography. (Map)
- Subida al Cerro de San Cristóbal: A scenic hike that takes you to the highest point in the area, offering breathtaking views of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Nature Park. This well-marked trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. (Route)
- Veredas - Almonaster la Real - Acebuche - El Cincho: A beautiful and challenging hiking route that takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests and open fields. This trail is ideal for experienced hikers looking to explore the natural surroundings of Almonaster la Real. (Route)
Alajar
This area offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
- Hermitage of San Bartolome: Offers excellent views from the rock of Arias Montano. This hermitage is a significant religious site and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the serene atmosphere. (Map)
- Sendero de los Molinos: A beautiful and quiet hiking trail ideal for going out with children. (Map)
- Sendero a Linares de la Sierra: A scenic loop trail that takes you from Linares de la Sierra to Alájar, passing through diverse landscapes including forests and open fields. This trail offers wonderful views of the Sierra de Aracena. (Route)
- Sendero a Fuenteheridos: A picturesque hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful landscapes. This trail is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Route)
Linares de la Sierra
In Linares de la Sierra, if you decide to visit, you can relax and enjoy the refreshing qualities of its pure waters.
- Linares de la Sierra - Los Madroñeros - Alájar: A beautiful hiking route that takes you from Linares de la Sierra to Alájar, passing through diverse landscapes including forests and open fields. This trail offers wonderful views of the Sierra de Aracena. (Route)
- Aracena - Linares de la Sierra: A popular hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. This route is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Route)
Aracena
Aracena is a charming town located in the heart of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. Known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, Aracena offers visitors a unique blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Explore fascinating caves, such as the famous Gruta de las Maravillas, visit historic sites like the medieval castle, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside with its lush forests and scenic hiking trails.
- Gruta de las Maravillas: A cave with visitable galleries extending over more than a kilometre. This spectacular cave system features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in geology and natural wonders. (Map)
- Castle of Aracena: A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes. The castle is a significant historical landmark and provides a great spot for photography. (Map)
- Aracena - Linares de la Sierra Circular: A popular hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. This route is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. (Route)
Route by car
Begin your journey in Santa Olalla de Cala and embark on a scenic drive through the Sierra de Aracena. This route takes you through picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and charming villages, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As you make your way to Aracena, you’ll experience the serene and captivating essence of the Sierra de Aracena, making it an unforgettable drive.
