Beas de Segura can be explored through two clearly distinct themes: the history of the Monastery of San José del Salvador and landscapes shaped by caves, streams and limestone. The reason for your trip may determine your choice of hotel: is your main interest cultural history, different types of natural scenery, or the Fiestas de San Marcos? The Beas de Segura tourist information office offers guided tours of the old town for groups, individuals and school classes. Ask about availability before your trip.
Monastery, castle and museums
The Monastery of San José del Salvador was founded in 1575 as Saint Teresa’s tenth foundation and was her first foundation in an Andalusian province. The Museo-Relicario is housed in several monastery rooms that are open to the public; confirm public access again before your visit.
The cultural attractions also include the Centro de Interpretación de la Villa de Beas, two municipal museums covering different subjects, and the monastery’s reliquary museum. The Centro de Interpretación de la Villa de Beas was built on the ruins of the castle and incorporates parts of its walls and structures. The Museo de Usos y Costumbres de Antaño “Cantero” dedicates a large part of its exhibition space to agriculture and olive oil. Beas de Segura is also part of the Huellas de Teresa de Jesús cultural heritage network.
Natural sites between cave, stream and limestone
Cueva del Agua de Beas is 500 metres from the town centre. It consists of two chambers connected by a small but deep lake. Monte Fuente Pinilla lies within the natural park. Its landscape features limestone peaks, a montane pine forest, holm oaks and ground vegetation of rosemary and juniper; it also includes damp areas.
Paraje Valparaíso lies beside Arroyo Valparaíso, which flows into the Río Beas. Abundant water and, above all, riverside vegetation define this natural area. Its features include tree-lined gardens, springs, a small stream and picnic areas. The Picos de Natao, meanwhile, are a limestone plateau at an altitude of 1,274 metres, with impressive panoramic views.
Together, these natural sites represent different types of landscape: a cave and lake, a stream and riverside vegetation, woodland and damp areas, and a high-altitude limestone plateau. When choosing nature-related destinations for your trip, you can use these different features as a guide rather than treating all the places as the same kind of natural experience.
Fiestas de San Marcos in April
The Fiestas de San Marcos are celebrated in honour of the saint from 22 to 25 April and date back to the 15th century. The festivities include releasing a large number of tethered fighting bulls. Since 2000, the Fiestas have been recognised as a Fiesta de Interés Turístico de Andalucía (Festival of Tourist Interest of Andalusia). Before your trip, check the dates, the programme for that year and the safety measures.
Discover more destinations: Cañada Catena, Virgen De La Cabeza, Garcíez, Cabra Del Santo Cristo, Ribera Baja, Bailén, Santisteban Del Puerto, Solera.
For the broader travel overview: Jaen.
