Trail GR-114 Stage 4: A Journey Through Green Tapestries and Historical Landscapes

In the heart of Spain, the GR-114 trail offers a unique walking experience, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. Stage 4, spanning 38.6 kilometers from Alameda de Cervera to Villarta de San Juan, is a testament to the diversity and richness of the Spanish countryside. This segment of the trail, characterized by its melon fields, vineyards, olive groves, and cereal crops, takes hikers on a journey through a palette of colors that change with the seasons.

A Walk Among Vines and Olives

The stage begins at the rest area of Alameda de Cervera, setting off towards the Guadiana River. Crossing the river via a bridge, hikers find themselves on its right bank, quickly encountering a path that veers left. After about 800 meters, a left turn leads to another crossing over the Guadiana, marking the entry into a landscape dominated by extensive vineyards and melon fields.

The trail continues, passing through the Batanes estate, transitioning onto a dirt path that meanders through flat terrain adorned with crops. This section is a vivid illustration of agricultural life, with the occasional detour near houses adorned with traditional tinajas (large earthenware jars), hinting at the local wine culture.

From Ruins to Lush Vistas

As the path progresses, it slips under a railway to encounter the remnants of the Casas de los Tejeros, a poignant reminder of the area’s past. The journey then leads through the abandoned Aldea de Villacentenos, now a collection of ruins that whisper stories of a bygone era, before diverting amidst cereal fields and vineyards.

Upon crossing the CM-3107 road, the trail unveils a small pine forest, eventually giving way to vast cereal crops dotted with holm oaks. This section offers panoramic views that capture the essence of the Spanish countryside, presenting a kaleidoscope of colors that shift from the intense greens of spring to the toasted yellows of summer, and from the sweet ochres of autumn to the bright greys of winter.

Cultural Landmarks and Local Flora

Approaching Villarta de San Juan, the trail navigates through vineyards and carob plantations, leading to the Casa del Marqués. The path then meanders through saffron fields, offering a glimpse into the cultivation of this precious spice. Further on, the trail crosses the CR-1341 road, introducing a significant landmark—a large stone beside the path that adds intrigue to the landscape.

Parallel to the Cigüela River, the trail explores a region where the water’s flow is shaped by the clayey, marl-rich soil, creating a dynamic ecosystem that reacts vividly to rainfall patterns. This section highlights the trail’s shared use, with signage indicating the coexistence of hikers and local traffic.

Arrival in Villarta de San Juan

The final stretch to Villarta de San Juan is marked by an asphalted path that runs alongside a municipal dump, sharing 400 meters with motor vehicles. To enter the town, hikers cross over the A-4 motorway via an overpass, leading directly into the urban landscape.

The stage concludes at the main road of Villarta de San Juan, near the Church of San Juan Bautista—a must-visit for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The nearby Clock Tower, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a timeless sentinel over the town square, offering a perfect end to this leg of the GR-114 trail.

Conclusion

Stage 4 of the GR-114 trail encapsulates the essence of Spain’s rural heartland, offering walkers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from the agricultural fields that feed the nation to the historical ruins that tell its stories. It’s a journey not just through space, but through time, offering insights into the past and present of this rich and varied land.

Read more about the trial here