Hiking the Trail Sendero Los Jiménez-Fuente Garzón from Ardales februar 25, 2024 – Posted in: Andalusia, Spain
Embracing the Past Along the PR-A 091 Sendero Los Jiménez-Fuente Garzón
As the dawn breaks over the rustic town of Ardales in the province of Málaga, Spain, a 13.3-kilometer-long trail awaits the tread of adventure-seekers and history buffs alike. The PR-A 091 Sendero Los Jiménez-Fuente Garzón is a path that meanders through time, nature, and the soul of Andalusia, offering a journey that can be completed in about four leisurely hours.
Starting off at “la Esquina los Herreros”, the trail quickly leads out of the village streets and heads toward the Turón River, a natural guide through this historic landscape. The “Puente de la Molina” is a remarkable first milestone, with its trio of Roman-style arches, it stands as a lasting monument to the Augustan era. This ancient structure is not just a bridge over water but also a bridge across time, connecting the modern wanderer to the epoch of emperors and gladiators.
As the river bends, so does the path, running parallel to it. This portion of the trail is a joy for walkers, with its comfortable track and gentle rises that offer a serene walking experience. Along the way, one can admire local residences and farmland that dot the landscape until the imposing ruins of the Turón Castle fortress come into view. The fortress, although a shadow of its former self, still commands respect and offers a silent narrative of the region’s tumultuous history.
The trail then diverts from the river and ventures into the Mediterranean scrubland, a biome characterized by aromatic herbs and hardy shrubs, indicative of the region’s climate. It’s a change of scene that marks the ascent to the trail’s zenith, the “Cerro del Rey”. At 648 meters above sea level, the summit provides not only the physical high point of the hike but also the spiritual one, with breathtaking views that are a reward in themselves.
From the peak, the path descends toward “Fuente de Garzón”, signaling a transition into softer landscapes, where gentle hills give way to a verdant pine forest. This green corridor leads to the GR-7 trail, part of a longer trek that stretches from Ardales to Serrato, and provides a canopy of pine scents and bird songs.
The descent continues through fields where the hands of local farmers have shaped the land into olive groves and almond orchards, past dwellings that speak of a simple yet fulfilling rural life. At a junction 700 meters down the path, a decision awaits: turning right leads to “La Fuente de San Ignacio”, while straight ahead, the path slopes down to “Cortijo Laguar”. This stretch is a feast for the eyes, with sprawling views of Ardales that encapsulate the charm of Andalusia.
Drawing near to the end of the journey, the path loops back to the Puente de la Molina. Here, history greets the traveler once more, reminding them of the circuitous nature of both trails and time. A final gentle climb through the village streets leads back to the starting point.
The PR-A 091 Sendero Los Jiménez-Fuente Garzón is more than just a walking trail; it is a vibrant thread woven into the cultural and historical fabric of Ardales. It offers an immersive experience that combines physical activity with a profound sense of connection to the past. Walkers leave with not only photographs and memories but also a deeper appreciation for the enduring spirit of the region.