Trail GR-114 Stage 26: A Verdant Journey from Valdivia to Villanueva de la Serena

The GR-114 trail, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich ecological tapestry, offers hikers an unforgettable journey through Spain’s heartland. Among its many stages, Stage 26 stands out as a remarkable blend of natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and cultural significance. Stretching over 19.3 kilometers from Valdivia to Villanueva de la Serena, this section encapsulates the essence of the trail, providing a unique experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

A Path Through Nature’s Bounty

The journey begins by embracing the left bank of the Guadiana River, guiding walkers through lush irrigated crops and offering delightful opportunities for dips in the Guadiana and its tributary, the Zújar River. This particular path traverses areas of immense ecological importance, serving as biodiversity reserves amid a landscape deeply shaped by human hands. The fluvial valley of the river acts as the backbone of the scenery, dictating the course and character of the trail.

Crossing the Waters

The route’s defining features are the crossings over two significant water bodies: the Guadiana River and its affluent, the Zújar. Nestled between these rivers is the municipality of Entrerríos, notable for its unique circular urban layout, a rarity among the high-plain colonization towns. The Guadiana’s waters, channeled through an intricate system of canals and irrigation ditches, lay the foundation for the area’s agricultural wealth.

Ecological Richness Along the Way

This territory is a treasure trove of natural values, from remnants of dehesa (meadow), Mediterranean forest, and riparian woodlands, all of immense ecological importance. The trail partly winds through the “Río Guadiana Alto–Zújar” Special Conservation Area (ZEC), highlighting the region’s commitment to preserving its biodiversity amidst a predominantly anthropogenic environment.

Agricultural Landscapes and Urban Encounters

As the trail meanders close to the Guadiana River, it showcases the region’s extensive irrigation-based agriculture. This proximity to water has fostered significant population growth in nearby villages throughout the century, offering hikers a glimpse into the contrasts between vast agricultural lands and the majestic holm oak groves of the dehesas, dedicated to sheep farming.

The River’s Role in Local Life

The Guadiana River is not just a scenic backdrop but a lifeline for the area’s farmers and ranchers, whose livelihoods have flourished thanks to the expansive irrigated lands. These territories are havens for birds and game species, making the region a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and water sports aficionados alike.

The Trail Experience

Starting from Valdivia, the path shares its initial stretch with Stage 25, leading to a marked crossroads with a rest area by the Guadiana. Here, the trail veers right, following the river’s right bank towards Entrerríos, and skirts the Trompeta Island before rejoining the Camino de Pela road. The journey offers multiple rest spots, including the urban center of Entrerríos and its naturalized beach, just a short distance from the Zújar’s right bank.

Alternative Routes and Birdwatching Havens

Beyond the recreational areas, the trail presents an alternative route along the Zújar’s northern side, through potentially challenging terrains that may be flooded during rainy seasons. This path leads through river lagoons and requires crossing the Zújar via a bridge. However, the main route follows the river’s southern edge, leading past bird observatories and the ruins of a water mill, offering enriching experiences for birdwatchers and history enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Stage 26 of the GR-114 trail, from Valdivia to Villanueva de la Serena, is more than a hiking path; it’s an immersive journey through the heart of Spain’s natural and cultural landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the ecological riches, the agricultural vistas, or the quaint villages along the way, this stage promises an enriching experience for every traveler.