Discovering the Heart of Spain: A Journey Through GR-114, Stage 134

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Spain’s vast countryside, the GR-114 trail presents an enchanting pathway for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Stage 134 of this trail, spanning a distance of 18.7 kilometers from Albergue Juvenil Puente de Retama to Puebla de Don Rodrigo, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological diversity. This journey takes you through the pine forests of the Sierra de Saceruela, across the rugged terrains of the Sierra de Peribáñez, and down into the verdant valleys bordering the Guadiana River, encapsulating the essence of Spain’s rich environmental tapestry.

Embarking from Albergue Juvenil Puente de Retama

The adventure begins at the Albergue Juvenil Puente de Retama, a youth hostel nestled within a forested area, equipped with all necessary amenities, including sanitary facilities, to provide a comfortable stay and engaging nature-related activities. After crossing the CM-415 road, the trail meanders parallel to the N-430 road, veering off into the heart of the forests that cloak the slopes of the Sierra de Saceruela, where the journey into wilderness commences.

Through the Pines and Beyond

Initially, the path winds through a mixed forest where the stone pine (Pinus pinea) coexists with the holm oak (Quercus ilex), soon giving way to almost pure pine groves, punctuated occasionally by solitary holm oaks. The trail offers the first panoramic views from the Peña de los Gavilanes, revealing a landscape dominated by dense pine forests and thyme-covered cliffs.

A highlight along the route is a forest pond, an artificial water body replenished by a stream, serving as a vital water source for firefighting helicopters and vehicles. Nearby, the ruins of a shelter and a small grove of cork oaks (Quercus suber) present a rare sight within this stage of the trail.

Peaks and Valleys

The path skirts the Alto de la Alcachofa, Morro de la Gila, and Morro de Castilnegro, offering breathtaking vistas over the pine forest and the oak groves across the Guadiana valley. The Morro de Castilnegro, distinguishable by its antennas, marks the highest point in the Sierra, with a well-signposted route leading to its peak.

Transition to the Dehesa

Beyond the Casa de la Celadilla, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, transitioning from dense forest to open dehesa, a landscape shaped by centuries of human agricultural practices. The trail descends into this pastoral idyll, characterized by scattered oak trees over grassy pastures, where the ancient Ermita de San Isidro stands as a testament to the area’s cultural heritage.

The Final Stretch to Puebla de Don Rodrigo

The concluding segment of the trail runs adjacent to the N-430 road, featuring benches, young trees, and shelters with marquees, providing respite from the elements. As the path nears Puebla de Don Rodrigo, it crosses a newly constructed stone pedestrian bridge over the Arroyo del Agua de las Cañadas, marking the trail’s approach to the village.

A Path Through Conservation Areas

This stage of the GR-114, like its predecessors, traverses the “Ríos de la cuenca media del Guadiana y laderas vertientes” Special Conservation Area (ZEC) and the Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) of the same name, highlighting the trail’s commitment to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Embarking on Stage 134 of the GR-114 is more than just a hike; it is an immersion into the heart of Spain’s diverse landscapes and a testament to the country’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. This trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, witness the beauty of Spain’s rural landscapes, and explore the rich biodiversity that thrives within its borders.

Read more about the trail here