On the left bank of the Almanzora, El Hijate lies on the border between the provinces of Almería and Granada. The village dates back to the late 19th century. Two distinct aspects are therefore central to planning a trip: local heritage and routes for cycling or hiking. History enthusiasts will find notable buildings and a clear reason to visit in June. Those who prefer the outdoors can choose between a cycling route and a longer hike.

Heritage and History in El Hijate

The local heritage includes the Church of San Antonio de Padua and the Ermita de la Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepción. Torre del Ramil offers an older historical connection: it was built during the Nasrid period as part of a defensive signalling system and is classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural. This allows the village’s origins in the late 19th century and the tower’s earlier history to be viewed as distinct periods.

The exterior of Torre del Ramil can currently be visited. Check local visiting conditions before travelling. The festival date is also of interest for a visit centred around San Antonio de Padua: Hijate’s patron saint festivities are held in his honour on 13 June. Check locally for the programme of the current edition.

Cycling and Hiking Around El Hijate

The landscape near the Sierra de los Filabres gives the routes a distinctive regional setting. There are cycling routes in the area around El Hijate. The Camino Natural Vía Verde Guadix-Almendricos starts 400 metres from the former Hijate railway station. The section near El Hijate is also described as suitable for less experienced cyclists. From the start of the route, there are views of the Sierra de los Filabres.

Another option is a linear hiking trail with Hijate and Alcóntar as its start and end points. It is 17.7 kilometres long, has a moderate difficulty level and can be hiked year-round. The route follows the border between Almería and Granada and the northern slope of the Sierra de los Filabres. The details make the distinction between the activities clear: the cycling section is described as suitable for less experienced cyclists, while the hike’s length and moderate difficulty are the key details.

Regional Cuisine

Sausages made in Hijate include chorizo, longaniza, blanquillo and salchichón. The culinary traditions of Alcóntar and Hijate also include migas, fritá de conejo, gurullos, fried roscos, roscos de vino and aguardiente. These dishes and products offer insight into the culinary traditions of both places; the sausages are specifically associated with Hijate, while the culinary traditions listed are shared by Alcóntar and Hijate.

Discover more destinations: Mojácar, El Pilar, Aguadulce, Cuevas Del Almanzora, Laroya, Viator, Alhama De Almería, Nijar

For the broader travel overview: Almeria.