FACILITY: SIGNPOSTED TRAIL
BARRANCO DE LA OSA
CASTRIL (GRANADA)
SIERRA DE CASTRIL - Ventana del Visitante
DESCRIPTION
The Castril River is the essence of the park and also the reason for the unusual appearance of the area. Its waters emanate from the heart of the park and run right through it to the Portillo reservoir.
The signposted trail, which runs parallel to the river and serves as the starting point for other routes, shows you where it all began. The source of the Castril River is an unbelievably beautiful place. Cold, crystalline waters gush from the rock face, shielding the trout from its main predator, the otter. These are the truest trout, since they have not been affected by repopulation, as is common in other places. Riverine forest surrounds the river course. Willows, poplars and elms watch over it, an ideal habitat for birds such as the kingfisher and the white-throated dipper.
In addition to being an abundant natural source, water also plays a part in the shape of the the terrain. As it passes through, it erodes the calcareous massif and transforms the landscape into a karst system of high environmental value, such as the Barranco de la Osa. The waters penetrate deep inside the rock, creating notable caves such as Don Fernando. The nature of its formation makes it a great site for caving or simply those interested in geology. A clear example of the river´s influence on this park and its surroundings is the Peña de Castril Natural Monument. Remains, such as a Moorish castle at the top, give us an idea of the town’s history, and whence it gets its name.
Walking along the river, it is possible to see how altitude plays its part in the colours of the landscape, by looking at how the wooded areas vary according to height. The dark greens of the holm oaks are succeeded by autumnal red maple and oak trees and these, in turn, by the greyish greens of junipers and brooms. The light green grass on mountain pastures such as Prados del Conde, feeds the cattle herds of Segureña sheep and other herbivores such as wild goat that travel through the plateau from one mountain range to another.
On the Cerro del Buitre trail, which approaches the cliffs of Corralón, it is possible to see the nests of griffon vultures on the steepest peaks. With a good pair of binoculars and some patience you are likely to see the vultures themselves.
The town of Castril, which has interesting historical and cultural heritage, is on the outskirts of the park. This town is also known for its traditional artisan work, owing to the fact that wood, for the manufacture of boats and the glass industry, formed the bulk of its economy for some time.
OTHER PROTECTED AREAS
DATA SHEET
sheetList
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Provinces Granada
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MAP
ACTIVITIES
Hiking is a great way to explore the Sierra de Castril Natural Park. By following the signposted Cerro del Buitre trail (11 kilometres), you will arrive at one of the highest peaks in this range: Vulture Peak. At 2,000 metres you have excellent views of the area and the chance to see up-close the birds that soar through these skies. The majestic griffon vulture is one of them, having selected these rugged lands as one of its key nesting zones.
Another interesting route leads you to the source of the Castril River, where water gushes from the rock face of this looming mountain range. This route also serves as a starting point for various other signposted trails leading up into the mountains.
Water sports * such as canoeing are available at the Portillo Reservoir. You can also go caving in the Don Fernando Cave * where you can see and explore the networks of passages and beautiful karst formations.
* Activity requires authorisation from the Natural Park.
MAP
BRAND NATURAL PARK OF ANDALUCIA
BRAND NATURAL PARK OF ANDALUCIA
GRANJA CINEGÉTICA SIERRA DE CASTRIL
Perdiz roja viva de Andalucía de explotación certificada
GREEN WALK
Rutas de ecoturismo
AGENDA
Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
Follow the recommendations and comply with the regulations at all times
Respect the facilities put at your disposal. We all pay for its maintenance.
Help prevent fires. Do not throw cigarettes or any other object that produces combustion.
Trash doesn't come back alone. Take it with you to the nearest container. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Noise is another form of pollution. In silence you will enjoy your experience more.
Live respectfully with the locals and other users. Respect private property.
Facilitate use for people with special needs.
By consuming local products and counting on local companies, you will contribute to rural development.
Practice responsible tourism and committed to the environment. Be a true ecotourist!
Never leave your pet in the wild. It would endanger the flora and fauna of the place.
Get around in a sustainable way: public transport, bicycle, on foot, electric or shared vehicle ... Park in the designated places
Do not leave a trace of your passage through nature. The best memory you can take with you is your own photograph.
Your safety is our concern, but it is your responsibility.
The conservation of natural spaces is also in your hands. Thank you for your collaboration!
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
GOOD PRACTICES
PUBLICATIONS
Feria Grande
Primer fin de semana de octubre
Fiestas de la Virgen de Fátima
Segundo fin de semana de mayo (pedanía de Fátima)
Romería de la Virgen de la Cabeza
Último domingo de abril
DO NOT LEAVE WITHOUT ...
