Those considering Arenas Del Rey as a destination for an exploratory trip will find a variety of points of interest: river and reservoir landscapes, a cave with stalactite and stalagmite formations, and traces of early industry, settlements and religious architecture. The trails also have their own distinctive features. Suspension bridges, a river route that runs mostly through the water, and opportunities to observe waterbirds offer different perspectives on nature. When making your choice, it is therefore worth considering the particular character of each route and place.
Hiking Trails with Distinctive Character
The Route de los Tajos de los Bermejales uses suspension bridges to cross sections of difficult terrain. Along the river, the landscape is shaped by rock formations carved by erosion, pools, waterfalls and cascades. Rock, water and bridge crossings together define the character of this route.
The route along the RĂo CebollĂłn follows a different course: it runs mostly through the water along the riverbed and passes through an almost untouched natural landscape. This sets it apart from the Tajos route, whose description highlights the suspension bridges used to cross difficult terrain. If you are choosing between the two, you can compare the water-focused trail along the RĂo CebollĂłn with the bridges and rock formations of the Tajos route.
The Pantano de los Bermejales circular route includes a section from the dam in the direction of Arenas Del Rey. Along the route, you can observe various waterbirds in their natural habitat. This makes nature observation a different focus from the rocky and river landscapes of the other two routes.
Cave and Landscape
The Cueva del Linarejo is described as a nature reserve and tourist attraction in Arenas Del Rey. Visitors can explore stalactite and stalagmite formations inside the cave. Here, the focus is on the specific features of the cave interior, while the routes along the RĂo CebollĂłn and at the Tajos showcase their landscapes primarily through rivers, terrain and water.
Traces of Industry, Settlement and Architecture
La Resinera was formerly a resin distillery and grew into one of Spain’s largest turpentine production facilities. The La Resinera information point is located in the former chapel and former school on the factory grounds. It lies in the heart of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, on its Granada side. If you are planning a visit to the information point, check its current opening hours in advance.
The ruins of the former settlement of Arenas del Rey preserve the remains of the cemetery and the foundations of the parish church of San Sebastián. The Church of San Sebastián is a basilica dating from the late 19th century. The two offer different insights: the ruins preserve tangible remains of the former settlement, while the church, through its architectural form and historical period, marks a distinct chapter in architectural history.
Historical traces can also be found at the reservoir. The megalithic dolmen next to the reservoir was moved and rebuilt stone by stone so that it would not be submerged. Poblado del Embalse was established next to the dam in the 1960s and is considered a unique example of functional architecture integrated into the landscape. Meanwhile, the lush gardens are part of the described setting at the Ermita de San Isidro.
Water at Poblado del Embalse
The clear waters at Poblado del Embalse invite visitors to swim, fish and enjoy water sports. If you are planning one of these activities, check the local conditions in advance. This gives you specific options by the water in addition to the trails and historical sites.
Discover more destinations: Fornes, Trevélez, Tózar, Motril, Las Gabias, Pinos Del Valle, Huéneja, Peligros
For the broader travel overview: Granada.
