Hiking the Trail From Las Casas to Valverde februar 28, 2024 – Posted in: Castilla-La Mancha, GR114, Spain
Exploring the GR-114 Stage 9: From Las Casas to Valverde
Nestled in the heart of Spain, the GR-114 trail offers a unique journey through the country’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Stage 9, stretching from Las Casas to Valverde, encapsulates the essence of this route, presenting hikers with a 16 km trek filled with natural beauty, historical sites, and a touch of adventure. This segment of the trail, leading towards the “Laguna de La Posadilla” volcano, traverses through agricultural lands pivotal in livestock transhumance and guides trekkers to the notable Iberian-Medieval archaeological site of Alarcos.
Setting Off from Las Casas
The journey begins in Las Casas, a locality within the municipality of Ciudad Real, positioned approximately eight kilometers from the urban center along the CM-412 road. The initial part of the route shares an asphalted stretch with vehicles for about 2.7 km, fostering an immediate immersion into the rural essence of the area. The landscape is adorned with cereal crops, olive groves, and vineyards, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Towards the Heart of Nature
After leaving the asphalt road, the trail takes a right turn onto a wide dirt path descending towards the Guadiana River, accompanied by an irrigation ditch. This segment offers a serene experience as the path runs parallel to the river, now hidden beneath a layer of marsh vegetation. The presence of “Los Tilos,” a horse farm, marks a significant point along the route, ensuring hikers are on the right track.
As the journey progresses, the path leads to “Los Corrales,” a large estate with horses, before veering away from the river into pastures dotted with cattle. This change in scenery signifies the diversity of ecosystems the GR-114 navigates through.
Historical Echoes at Alarcos
The trail then intersects with the access road to Ciudad Real, requiring caution due to traffic, and soon after, introduces hikers to the Archeological Park of Alarcos. This segment, enveloped by shade trees and historical whispers, ascends to the hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Alarcos. Here, panoramic views of the traversed landscape await, along with an opportunity to explore the archaeological site of Alarcos, offering a glimpse into the area’s storied past.
The Path to Valverde
The journey from Alarcos to Valverde marks the common section with stage 10 of the GR-114. The trail skirts along a medieval wall and descends to a road shared with motor vehicles, cautioning hikers for a brief 400 m stretch. After crossing the Guadiana River, the path ascends towards Valverde, flanked by shade trees such as Platanus x hispanica and Tilia cordata, enhancing the trail’s picturesque quality.
Upon nearing Valverde, a water reservoir offers stunning views, leading down to a recreational area equipped with benches, tables, and a playground, marking the end of the main stage.
Detour to Laguna de La Posadilla
An optional detour from the recreational area leads to the “Laguna de La Posadilla” or Fuentillejo, a mesmerizing volcanic crater lake within the “Lagunas volcánicas del Campo de Calatrava” conservation area. This 2.7 km path, edged by ash and linden trees, offers a tranquil conclusion to the journey, immersing hikers in the volcanic beauty and ecological significance of the region.
Stage 9 of the GR-114 is more than a trail; it’s a journey through time, nature, and culture, inviting adventurers to explore the heart of Spain’s natural and historical heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of ancient sites or the call of the wild, this trail segment promises an unforgettable experience.