The GR-114 Trail Stage 6: From Villarrubia de los Ojos to Santuario de la Encarnación

Spanning a distance of 28.8 kilometers, Stage 6 of the GR-114 trail offers hikers an immersive journey through the heart of Spain’s natural and cultural landscapes. This leg of the trail, starting from Villarrubia de los Ojos and concluding at the Santuario de la Encarnación, provides a unique blend of agricultural expanses, national parklands, and historical sites, showcasing the diverse beauty of the region.

A Journey Through Nature’s Splendor

The trail sets off from Villarrubia de los Ojos, embarking from Calle Charcazo. The initial segment of the path shares the route with motor vehicles, necessitating caution. After navigating through two roundabouts, the path veers towards the Cigüela River, leading adventurers into the heart of agricultural lands dominated by vineyards.

Crossing the bridge over the Cigüela River marks the entry into the Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park. This area is a testament to the resurgence of the Guadiana River and its confluence with the Cigüela River, creating an ecosystem rich in marsh vegetation such as reeds, bulrushes, and sea lavenders. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering sightings of numerous migratory and wintering species amidst its vast wetlands and floodplains.

Diverging Paths: A Tale of Two Routes

Upon reaching a crucial junction, hikers face a choice: veer right towards the Las Tablas de Daimiel, continuing along the trail, or left towards the Ojos del Guadiana. Opting for the left directs trekkers through rolling terrains of cereal crops and vineyards, eventually leading to the captivating Ojos del Guadiana. This natural spring, once a bubbling source of water, now quietly weaves through the landscape, marking the river’s subterranean journey.

Conversely, steering towards the Las Tablas de Daimiel unfolds a path lined with vineyards, maize, olives, and cereals, paralleling the park’s waterlogged expanses. This route not only offers glimpses into the area’s agricultural practices but also brings hikers closer to the park’s aquatic marvels.

Cultural Encounters and the Trail’s Conclusion

The trail’s final stretch towards the Santuario de la Encarnación is interspersed with cultural landmarks, including the meticulously restored Molemocho Mill and the archaeological marvels of Alarcos-Calatrava. Following a path shared with vehicles, the trail meanders through landscapes shaped by the confluence of the Guadiana and Cigüela Rivers, eventually leading to the serene sanctuary.

Nestled near the Calatrava Castle, the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación stands as the culmination of this stage. This tranquil oasis, equipped with rest areas, picnic facilities, and historical insights, offers a perfect endpoint to reflect on the journey’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Embracing the Journey

Stage 6 of the GR-114 trail from Villarrubia de los Ojos to Santuario de la Encarnación is more than a hike; it’s an exploration of Spain’s rich ecological tapestries and cultural narratives. Whether drawn to the allure of migratory birds, the tranquility of natural springs, or the whispers of history, this trail stage promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Spain’s diverse landscapes.

Read more about the trail here