Pontones offers several clearly distinct themes to consider when planning a trip: hiking, nature along the Segura and local history. When looking for a hotel in Pontones, you can first decide which of these you’d like to shape your stay. The circular route to Cueva del Agua, the trail to the source of the Segura and a walk through the streets each appeal to different interests.

Hiking: Circular Route and Stage

The Pontones option on the route to Cueva del Agua starts at an open area on the outskirts of Pontón Bajo, in the direction of Santiago de la Espada. From there, it follows the Arroyo del Masegoso, first leading to Charco del Humo and then climbing to Cueva del Agua. This option is considered a 15 km circular route, providing a clearly defined distance for a hike. Alternatively, Stage 18 of the Rutas Bosques GR247 runs between Pontones and La Toba. If choosing by route type, the difference is clear: one is a circular route to the cave, the other a stage between Pontones and La Toba. Conditions on the Cueva del Agua route may vary seasonally; check them before setting out.

Source of the Segura: Nature and Access Routes

The source of the Segura emerges from a crystal-clear pool in a high-mountain limestone landscape. The area has tables with benches, barbecue areas, a children’s play area and a spring. The use of individual facilities may depend on local conditions. From Pontón Bajo, the area can be reached on foot via the 4,862 m Fuente-Segura hiking trail. The scenic road from Pontones to the source of the Segura is 5 km long. For planning purposes, both the access method and starting point differ: the hiking trail starts in Pontón Bajo, while the road information refers to a route starting in Pontones. Check current trail and road conditions before setting out.

Townscape, Architecture and History

The Río Segura runs through the settlements of Pontón Alto and Pontón Bajo. A walk through the irregularly laid-out, narrow streets of Pontones reveals traditional houses, bread ovens and grain mills. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario was built in the late 19th century. It is small and has a single nave, a rectangular floor plan, a plain façade and a stone portal. A single-nave church has one main nave; the term helps describe its basic spatial layout. Cueva del Nacimiento near Fuente Segura in Pontones adds an archaeological dimension to the town’s history: evidence of one of the oldest documented human settlements in the province has been found there. The two caves appeal to different interests: Cueva del Nacimiento is part of the area’s archaeological history, while Cueva del Agua is the destination of the hiking loop.

Traditional Festivals

Local festivities in Pontones include bull runs featuring fighting bulls. A livestock fair is also part of the traditional seasonal celebrations from 10 to 12 October; dates and programme may vary. If you’d like to plan your visit around a festival, check the dates in advance.

Discover More Destinations

Santiago De La Espada, Coto-Ríos, Canena, Segura De La Sierra, Castellar, Hornos, Solera, Torreperogil

For the main travel overview: Jaen.