ALGAR CASTLE

The route starts in the village of Algar, a fine example of the sustainable development that has taken place over the centuries in the mountainous landscapes of the Subbetic Mountains, leading to its protection through its designation as a Natural Park. From here, next to the bridge that crosses the Algar stream, we head towards Salazar along the path of the same name. This ascent ends at the Salazar spring, where the concrete section of the path also ends, and we leave the buildings behind to enter the Camino de las Cabezas. The surroundings of the Salazar spring are of great beauty, not only because of the spring itself and the large surrounding pillar it preserves, but also because of the combination of rocky outcrops and escarpments where natural vegetation, much of it tree-like, thrives: the Camino de las Cabezas gradually gains height, allowing us to observe the northern faces of the Sierra Gallinera in the foreground, and the Sierra Horconera, situated just behind. These mountain ranges, due to the tectonic forces that caused the uplift of the materials forming them, display their steepest slopes to the north, formed by numerous rugged gorges which, in their lower reaches, taking advantage of the shade, greater humidity and depth of the soil found here, harbour valuable groves of centuries-old holm oaks. Also noteworthy on this stretch is the presence of ethnographic features around the old Cortijo de las Cabezás, such as the well situated at the foot of the path and the threshing floor located between the old ruined building and the holm oak grove occupying the upper part of the hill. At this point, there is also the access route with the gentlest gradient to Algar Castle, although it does not have a marked path or trail. We will reach the Cortijo de las Cabezás via a path of great beauty and environmental value. Here we can enjoy observing numerous species of flora typical of the Mediterranean scrubland, with some sections of gallery forest forming a canopy around the path, sheltering it and providing shade. At this point, as well as enjoying magnificent views over the Gallinera and Horconera mountain ranges, we will also have the opportunity to visit the ruins of Algar Castle.