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Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
The Puente de Los Cabriles hiking trail begins next to the road that connects Encinasola with Cumbres de San Bartolomé and follows a path running parallel to the road until it reaches the Abrevadero del Pilar de Acá watering hole. Here it joins the Colada del Camino de la Conteienda track where there are information panels about the role of livestock and transhumance throughout this border region with Portugal.
The path briefly follows the old Camino de la Conteienda, with olive groves and small orchards on both sides where you can see typical old constructions of the area such as the "bujardas", ancient circular sheepfolds that served as a shelter for livestock.
The hiking trail turns off to follow the access road to the Ermita de Rocamador which we keep on our right while our route begins the long descent in search of the Rivera del Múrtigas. Along this road, the horizon narrows, squashed between successive series of hills and promontories, witnesses of the erosive processes that have shaped this part of Sierra Morena for millions of years.
A singular characteristic of this part of our route is the rocky surface made up mainly of outcrops of quartzite, greywacke and massive slates, with hardly any stretches of soil or loose materials. The vegetation in this section denotes the intervention of man over the centuries and, in particular, his dedication to breeding livestock. Xerophytes predominate such as Montpellier cistus, rockrose, lavender and rosemary, while the more hygrophilous species are confined to the banks of the Arroyo de las Conteiendas stream and other small waterways that accompany us along the route. On the slopes it is common to see flocks of sheep and goats, signs of the pastoral tradition of the region.
The last stretch of the descent coincides with a another change in the landscape that now becomes less abrupt and more open. The rocky outcrops disappear and the panoramas are now much more open and spacious. On both sides of the road there are meadows of holm oaks and olive groves. In the lower areas, eucalyptus trees accompany us until we reach the Múrtigas riverbank and a few metres ahead, the Puente de los Cabriles bridge, the end of our route.
The bridge, unexpectedly large and spectacular, dates from around the 15th century and at the time it served to connect the population of Encinasola with the border region of Las Contiendas. The name "los Cabriles" alludes to the ram-like figures that decorate the upper part of the cutwaters on the pillars.
From here, you can go down to the riverbank and enjoy the magnificent gallery forest that runs on both sides of the river. Ash trees, poplars, willows and majestic white eucalyptus offer shade and shelter to a multitude of birds, reptiles and small mammals.
Once in Encinasola we look for the exit heading south through Street del Conde. At the end of this is the sign for the beginning of our hiking trail, which in the first metres follows a path which runs unfortunately parallel to the HU-9103 road to Cumbres de San Bartolomé.
Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
Do not disturb or feed the animals. You would negatively alter their behavior.
Check the weather forecast before starting your activity.
Bring water, sun protection, suitable clothing and footwear.
Bring a mobile phone with enough battery in case of emergency (112), but remember that there is not always coverage.
For your safety and that of the environment, do not go off the signposted trail or take shortcuts.
Extreme caution in adverse conditions and in the occasional presence of animals or motor vehicles.
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.
Avoid going out alone. If you do, communicate the route and time of return to other people.
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!
Find out in advance about the possible existence of hunting activity and remember that all public use facilities are declared safety zones.