The PR-A 420 Circular Castillo de las Guardas: A Scenic Marathon Through Sierra Morena

The PR-A 420 Circular Castillo de las Guardas trail is an impressive circuit that extends for 27.5 kilometers around the scenic environs of the Castillo de las Guardas municipality. Designed for those with good physical fitness and endurance, it offers a splendid seven-hour journey through the heart of Sierra Morena’s Dehesa, a landscape rich in history and natural beauty.

Setting Out: From the Cemetery to the Dehesa

The route description begins at the local cemetery, leading hikers down the street, past warehouses, and into the Dehesa of Sierra Morena, bordered by traditional dry stone walls. The early path is shared with the PR-A 320 towards Las Cañadillas, showcasing the low undulations typical of the area and the bordering private estates.

Brave Bulls and Camel Paths

As the trail progresses, it skirts around farms of the brave bulls, indicative of the region’s deep-rooted bullfighting culture. Hikers then encounter the “Vereda de los Camellos,” a livestock path that leads to the “Camino de la Sardina,” marking a transition in the landscape to more rolling hills.

Through El Pedrosillo and Beyond

A well-defined track takes walkers to the village of El Pedrosillo. Here, a brief stint on the road is required before veering right onto a path through the public mountain of “Cerro Negro” SE-11040-JA. This section eventually meets the SE-539 road, which sees sparse vehicle traffic, and requires a 1400-meter walk to reach a right turn, marking the final stretch of the trail.

The Art of Dry Stone Walls

A unique feature of this route is the traditional dry stone wall construction that hikers will see along the way. This ancient technique, which uses stones without any mortar or cement, relies on the careful placement and gravity to hold the walls together. It’s a method that doesn’t require tools, as the walls are built manually, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of past generations.

Dividing Land and History

These dry stone walls serve not only as a picturesque element of the trail but also as a historical artifact. They have traditionally been used for dividing properties, delineating fields, paths, and estates, and enabling rotational grazing.

Tips for Hikers

• Prepare for the Distance: The trail’s length is the main challenge, so ensure you are well-prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate clothing.
• Respect the Environment: Stay on the marked paths, especially as the trail passes through private properties and farmland.
• Appreciate the Construction: Take time to observe the dry stone walls, a feature that adds both cultural and historical value to the hike.
• Safety on the Road: Be cautious when the trail intersects with roads, keep to the side, and be mindful of any oncoming traffic.

Conclusion

The PR-A 420 offers an extensive journey through one of Andalusia’s most enchanting landscapes. It’s a trail that challenges the body, stimulates the senses, and connects hikers to the region’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn by the call of the wild, the love of history, or simply the joy of a long hike, the Circular Castillo de las Guardas is a rewarding experience that combines the beauty of nature with the legacy of Andalusian rural architecture.

Read more about the hike here