The Bonal del Cerro de los Barranquillos has water permanently standing on the surface; alongside it, a palaeontological site, Mediterranean trails and the Las Luminarias tradition shape the character of Fontanarejo. Nature, landscape and local history offer different focal points and various ways to plan your trip.
Wetland and palaeontological site
The Bonal del Cerro de los Barranquillos is a protected micro-reserve within the municipality of Fontanarejo. It was designated in 2002. The wetland lies along the Arroyo de los Barranquillos stream and has areas of surface water throughout the year. Its wildlife includes the Iberian ribbed newt, six amphibian species and four reptile species.
The Bonal can be visited year-round; autumn and spring are considered particularly suitable times. Daylight, normal temperatures and the company of a knowledgeable guide are recommended. Check the visitor-planning guidance before your trip. This will help you keep the special conditions of this protected natural area in mind when planning.
A different natural history is revealed at the Microfauna del Terreneuviense de Fontanarejo site. It can be reached from Fontanarejo via the Camino de Porzuna and is about 2 km away. The route is rated moderate and takes about two and a half hours. An unpaved track is suitable for tourist access. The site is palaeontologically significant: exceptionally well-preserved sponge remains from the Terreneuvian, sponge spicules and other articulated tissues have been discovered. Here, both route planning and a glimpse of very ancient traces of life take centre stage.
Trails and views in a Mediterranean landscape
The Ruta de Valdeja leads through a Mediterranean landscape of rockroses, rosemary, holm oaks and thyme. The paths in the Barranco de los Arroyuelos also lead into Fontanarejo’s Mediterranean landscape. At Cerro de la Centinela, you can enjoy views of the dehesas of Cabañeros National Park. These features offer distinct experiences: the Ruta de Valdeja focuses on plants and landscape, while Cerro de la Centinela is about the views.
Architecture, townscape and history
The Iglesia Parroquial de San Felipe y Santiago was built between the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Inside, the church has pointed arches at different heights. The town centre has a different architectural feature: because it is built on a slope, the streets run irregularly, houses do not line up, and numerous steps define the townscape. The church and the street layout thus offer two different perspectives on Fontanarejo’s built environment.
The Dehesa Boyal also preserves traces of traditional agro-pastoral activities, including chozos and charcoal burners’ huts. Remains of Iberian, Roman and Arab tombs have been found at El Castillejo. At Tarral de los Empredados, there are some remains from the Iron Age and the Roman period. These sites are distinguished by the periods mentioned for each; together, they add further historical context to the architectural heritage.
Las Luminarias and when to visit
The Las Luminarias tradition has been observed in Fontanarejo since the 16th century. It features rosemary fires spread throughout the town. In the evening, rosemary is burned as the church bell rings; the town fills with an intense rosemary fragrance and thick smoke. After midnight, the Mayos are also sung for the Virgin Mary. During Las Luminarias, traditional dishes are shared, though the specific foods may vary.
A historical origin story links Las Luminarias to efforts to combat a plague that struck Fontanarejo in the 16th century. When planning your trip, it is worth checking that year’s programme, as the exact arrangements can change. This will help you distinguish a visit timed around the tradition from a stay focused on the Bonal, which can be visited year-round, or on the trails and views.
Discover more destinations: Montiel, Ballesteros De Calatrava, Santa Cruz De Mudela, Alamillo, Villanueva de la Fuente, Argamasilla De Calatrava, Llanos Del Caudillo, Argamasilla De Alba
For the broader travel guide: Ciudad Real.
