Área Recreativa El Peralejo – Área Recreativa Fuenmayor

A linear and comprehensive route in the heart of the Sierra Mágina, linking a heritage of livestock farming, high-altitude pastureland and water. A peaceful walk, with a gradual ascent to Puerto de la Mata and a refreshing descent through shaded areas and springs, ideal for taking in the scenery at a leisurely pace.

The route begins in the vicinity of Mata Bejid, next to the El Peralejo Recreation Area, amidst a landscape of holm oaks, gall oaks and young pine forest. From the outset, traces of the traditional use of the hillside are evident: shepherds’ huts, old bridle paths and small sheepfolds that accompany the gentle climb halfway up the slope.

The path climbs gently to the foot of the limestone cliffs, where a via ferrata has now been installed, and looks out over the Cueva de la Solana,a small karstic shelter carved into the limestone, surrounded by lapiaz and dissolution fissures characteristic of the Mágina landscape. The path then joins a forest track leading to the Castillejo de Mata Bejid, the remains of a medieval fortification that guarded the pass between the countryside and the high, shady slopes of the mountains.

This section passes through a rare high-altitude pastureland, with scattered holm oaks and gall oaks dotting the mountain pastures – a landscape unique at this altitude. From here, the route continues towards Los Prados, where a spring feeds the Fuente de Los Prados, before tackling the final ascent to Puerto de la Mata, a pass that marks the change in slope.

Once over the pass, the route descends the north-facing slope, which is cooler and shadier. The pine forest thickens, seasonal springs such as Hoya Lino appear, and the atmosphere becomes distinctly damp. In the final stretch, the path approaches the Zurreón once more, whose waterfall may be visible after heavy rain, and the constant murmur of the spring accompanies the final steps to the Fuenmayor Recreation Area, where the route ends.

It is a route that combines history, woodland scenery and water, ideal for a leisurely stroll to discover how the mountains change with every kilometre.

General recommendations

Check the weather forecast, particularly for the area around Puerto de la Mata. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip; walking poles may be useful on the descent. Take plenty of water with you and take extra care on sections of the trail with loose stones and in damp areas near springs.