Despegue del Almadén

At 2,036 meters above sea level, the Almadén peak rises as one of the great natural balconies of Sierra Mágina. From its crest, the look dominates a sea of olive groves, the loins that descend to the Guadalquivir valley and, on clear days, the nearby summits of Granada. It is certainly one of those places that leave a mark on both the visitor and the pilot who decides to take on their heights. The enclave has two take-off guidelines. South facing, towards the surroundings of the Cortijo de Bornos, with wide open views. North facing, which allows to plan for Real Mancha with relative comfort in favourable conditions. It is a clearly thermal area, with powerful ascendencies that allow you to gain height quickly when the convective cycle is active. These upward currents can offer long and spectacular flights, but require more experience and accurate reading of the aerology than other more accessible areas in the environment. It is not a recommended take-off for unsupervised initiation pilots. The Almadén has been the stage of official testing when other areas did not meet adequate conditions, as was the case in a manga of the 2004 Spanish Paragliding Championship, which shows its technical and sports potential. Its current use is less frequent, partly due to prolonged access, approximately one hour from Pegalajar or Real Mancha, and to the improvement of infrastructure in areas such as Seven Pillas or the Eagle Peña, more comfortable and common. However, those who seek a more wild and high mountain experience find here a demanding and memorable scenario. Security recommendations Always consult up-to-date weather and wind forecast in height. Fly with approved and revised equipment. Valuing the technical level of its own and, if necessary, having accredited local guides or pilots. Plan access and collection well, given the location and altitude of the enclave. El Despega del Almadén is a mountain in a pure state: a place to walk to the top, run the hill and, when the wind accompanies, fly over one of the most iconic landscapes of the province.