The Segura Mountains

The Sierra del Segura, located in the southernmost part of Albacete and bordering Granada, Jaén, and Murcia, is a surprising destination that breaks with the stereotypes of the La Mancha plains. Here, the landscape transforms into mountains over 2,000 meters high, deep valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and endless pine forests. The source of the Mundo River, with its spectacular "reventón" (waterfall), is just the beginning of a network of natural spaces where water is the protagonist: the Segura, Tus, and Taibilla rivers run through this region, carving out canyons, waterfalls, and reservoirs that bring freshness and life at every turn. Part of its territory is protected under figures such as the Calares del Mundo y de la Sima Natural Park. This space offers travelers the opportunity to observe a unique biodiversity: birds of prey such as the golden eagle, the griffon vulture, and even the bearded vulture; mammals such as the mountain goat; and forests where holm oaks, oaks, junipers, and centuries-old walnut trees coexist. Ecotourists can explore more than 1,600 kilometers of marked trails, climb via ferrata routes, discover caves with karst formations, or enjoy astro-tourism in one of the clearest skies, certified as a Starlight Destination.

But the Sierra del Segura is not just about nature. It is also about history and culture. Its shelters and caves preserve one of the most important collections of cave art on the Iberian Peninsula, with more than 50 sites declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Highlights include the Cueva del Niño cave in Aýna and the Solana de las Covachas cave in Nerpio, true prehistoric sanctuaries that connect us with the first communities of hunters and farmers. Added to this are medieval castles such as Yeste and Taibilla, the metallurgical tradition of the Royal Factories of Riópar, and charming villages such as Letur, Liétor, Molinicos, and Aýna, where the scenes from the film Amanece, que no es poco (Dawn Breaks, Which Is No Small Thing) were shot, attracting film buffs and curious travelers today.Folk traditions are also a treasure in this mountain range. Every year, thousands of visitors come to Elche de la Sierra to see its Alfombras de Serrín (sawdust carpets), declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, or to Nerpio to experience the Feria de la Nuez (Walnut Fair). In Yeste, the Feria de Tradiciones (Traditions Fair) revives traditional crafts and the way of life of yesteryear, while in Bogarra the Ruta de las Esculturas (Sculpture Route) turns nature into an open-air museum.The trip is rounded off with authentic mountain cuisine linked to the region. Here you can sample dishes such as Segureño lamb, Celtiberian kid, gazpachos manchegos (cold soups) or migas (breadcrumbs), accompanied by wood-fired bread, mountain honey and small-production wines. Organic products play a prominent role: dairy products and yogurts from Letur, artisan jams, wholemeal breads, and the famous Nerpio walnut, with Designation of Origin.The Sierra del Segura is, in short, a place to breathe slowly, walk among the mountains, learn about its ancient history, and let yourself be carried away by the hospitality of its people. A destination that always offers more than you expect: more nature, more culture, more flavor, and more life. Because here, every day is different, and you will always want to return.