The Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas is the largest Natural Park in Spain with mountains, waterfalls, diverse wildlife and picturesque villages.
The Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas is one of the best kept secrets of Spain. The largest National Park in the country, it is one of the most beautiful, peaceful and biologically diverse areas it is possible to visit in Europe. It combines the natural beauty of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, forests and wild-flowers with the charm of ancient villages overlooked by majestic castles.
Tranco Reservoir
Set in the northeast corner of Andalusia, this area is important to Spain for various reasons. It is here that the mighty river Guadalquivir, which flows through the cities of Cordoba and Seville before entering the Atlantic at Cadiz, begins its journey. It was from this river that Christopher Columbus set sail on his journey in which he discovered the Americas. Soon after its birth, the river is dammed and becomes the vast artificial lake which forms the centrepiece of the National Park, the Tranco reservoir. The dam of this reservoir is used to produce hydroelectric power, part of the Spanish government’s drive towards clean sources of electricity.
Wildlife in the Sierras
The lover of wildlife and the outdoors will be spoilt for choice on a visit to the Sierras. There is a variety of mountain peaks, some over 2000 metres above sea-level. The whole area is covered in rich forests teeming with wildlife such as wild boar, deer and squirrels while overhead it is common to spot golden eagle, peregrine falcons and other types of hawk and buzzard. The tracks for hiking are in very good condition and out of season it is possible to walk all day and not see another soul. The keen hiker is recommended to try the track which meanders from the main road through the park to the source of the Guadalquivir. Alternatively, by car you can enjoy stunning vistas on a drive through the Sierra del Las Villas to the north of the reservoir.
Cazorla, Hornos, Segura de la Sierra and Siles
For those who enjoy exploring old towns, there are many fascinating places. The town of Cazorla has unbelievably steep streets and a precarious castle overlooking the surrounding countryside. The small but picturesque villages of Hornos, Segura de la Sierra and Siles in the east of the Park are all guarded by Moorish castles. Many sunny days could be spent admiring the flower-adorned balconies in narrow, white-washed streets or enjoying a coffee outside one of the obligatory cafés of this part of Spain.
Accomodation
The variety of accommodation reflects the popularity of the area with local holiday makers. There are luxury hotels, in the towns or isolated in the countryside. For families there are self-catering apartment complexes with on site swimming pools. For those on a lower budget there are campsites which offer log-cabins or caravans as well as fully serviced pitches for tents. There is plenty of choice and all are very reasonably priced.
Getting there
The Natural Park of the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas is a two hour drive from Granada Airport. It is well worth considering as a different and uplifting holiday destination. For further information the official website contains many useful features.
