Hiking the Trail Sendero Cerro del Calvario-Capellán from Ardales februar 25, 2024 – Posted in: Andalusia, Spain
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Ardales: A Guide to the PR-A 090 Trail
Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, the small municipality of Ardales offers a rich tapestry of natural landscapes that beckon the adventurous spirit. Among the various pathways that crisscross its terrain, the PR-A 090 trail stands out as a remarkable journey that invites both casual walkers and seasoned hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of rural Spain. This 12.3-kilometer trail, estimated to take approximately four hours to complete, serves as a window into the soul of the region, offering a medley of historical sites and breathtaking vistas.
The expedition begins at the quaint Plaza de San Isidro, where trekkers can gather their thoughts before ascending toward the revered hermitage of “Calvario.” The path to spiritual solace is flanked by the historic Iglesia “Nuestra Señora de los Remedios” – a stunning example of Mudéjar architecture that captivates with its intricate design and storied past.
As the trail winds upward, it demands resilience, with the most challenging segments promising to reward the persistent hiker. The Loma de la Castaña plateau emerges as a natural observatory, offering panoramic views of Ardales, marked by the iconic “Peña” rock formation. The eagle-eyed may also gaze upon the “Gamonal” to the west, with its modern wind parks juxtaposed against the time-hewn landscape, and to the east, the pastoral charm of “Los Romerales” countryside with the silhouette of Turón Castle and the Sierra de Hortejicar painting the horizon.
Reaching the “Cerrajón” area, hikers are greeted by a serene pine forest at 657 meters above sea level. Venturing further, the trail reaches its zenith at 715 meters, a vantage point that presents an idyllic setting for reflection or a well-deserved rest.
Descending into a modest valley, the path snakes along the Sierra de Alcaparaín, where the source of the “Colegiada” beckons as a refreshing waypoint. Not far from here, “El Capellán” welcomes travelers with the promise of rural hospitality, standing as a testament to the region’s burgeoning agri-tourism.
The trail’s narrative continues as it intersects with the MA-502 road, directing adventurers toward the rustic charm of El Burgo. Here, one deviates onto a dirt track that leads to the verdant orchards nourished by the Turón River. This segment of the journey is a celebration of contrasts, where the rural tableau of scattered houses, thriving orchards, and diverse microclimates converge, marking the lowest elevation of the route at 385 meters.
In the final stretch, the PR-A 090 trail offers a gentle descent, where the river is forded and the ascent transforms into a tranquil path that leads back to Ardales. The culmination of this circular route is symbolized by the historic Roman bridge of La Molina, an architectural marvel that serves as a gateway back into the embrace of this Andalusian gem.
For those who embark on the PR-A 090 trail, the experience is more than a hike; it is a journey through time and nature. It is an opportunity to connect with the land’s past, to witness the harmonious blend of natural beauty and human heritage, and to return with stories etched not only in memory but also in the soul. Ardales awaits, ready to be discovered one step at a time.