The best walks and hikes around National Park Sierra de Andújar
4.6
(47)
424
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around National Park Sierra de Andújar features diverse landscapes within the Sierra Morena, characterized by well-preserved Mediterranean forests of holm oaks and cork oaks. The terrain includes varied topography, from gently undulating hills to rocky crags, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,290 meters. The Yeguas and Jándula rivers flow through the park, creating riparian forests and reservoirs.
Best hiking trails around National Park Sierra de Andújar
- The most popular hiking route is Santuario Virgen de la Cabeza - circular through the Sierra de Andújar natural park, a difficult 11.0 miles (17.8 km) trail that takes 5 hours 9 minutes to complete, offering a comprehensive loop through the natural park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Encinarejo Dam loop from Los Llanos, an easy 3.8 miles (6.2 km) path. This route provides a pleasant loop around the Encinarejo Dam.
- Local hikers also love the Old Path Viewpoint – Membrillejo Stream loop from Santuario de la Virgen de la Cabeza, an 8.3 miles (13.3 km) trail leading through varied Mediterranean vegetation, often completed in about 3 hours 55 minutes.
- Hiking around National Park Sierra de Andújar is defined by extensive Mediterranean forests, varied hill morphology, and river valleys. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in National Park Sierra de Andújar are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore National Park Sierra de Andújar's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.5
(4)
24
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
6.16km
01:37
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
17.9km
05:41
720m
720m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It is a river that originates in the south of the province of Ciudad Real and is formed by the confluence of the Montoro and Ojailén rivers. It creates two reservoirs before flowing past the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Head. The first reservoir is called "La Lancha" and the second, "Encinarejo," is used for swimming during the summer months. It flows into the Guadalquivir River very near the town of Marmolejo.
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Very close to the so-called "Cuesta del Madroño" (Strawberry Tree Slope) is the only fountain on the "Camino Viejo" (Old Road) where we can refresh ourselves and refill our water bottles, as there is still a long stretch with a steep climb ahead. During the summer it usually dries up, so it's advisable to bring enough water from Andújar.
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An emblematic spot for the horse-drawn carts, where the ritual of baptizing new pilgrims is often performed. A small monument to the carts was built at this crossing of the stream.
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The first stop on the old road to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Head is where pilgrims rest and have a light lunch before continuing their journey. Here you'll find several watering troughs so the horses can quench their thirst during the approximately 20-kilometer trek from the city of Andújar. A small chapel has also been built where pilgrims can pray to the Virgin.
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The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Head is located in the Sierra de Andújar Natural Park. This sanctuary is one of the oldest in Spain, with a history dating back to the 13th century. It is known for its impressive Gothic architecture and religious significance, making it a very popular pilgrimage site. Every year, on the last weekend of April, a pilgrimage is held in honor of the Virgin of the Head, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all over Spain. During this festival, devotees climb the Cabezo hill, where the sanctuary is located, to pay homage to the Virgin.
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Since 1227, the date on which the apparition of the Virgin of the Head to Pastor Juan de Rivas is recorded, the celebration of the pilgrimage is commemorated on the last Sunday of April of each year, although the apparition took place on the night of the 11th. to August 12, 1227 in whose memory a kind of small pilgrimage is also celebrated on that date in the same Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Head.
6
1
The hermitage of San Ginés is an important milestone for pilgrim walkers who make the journey from Andújar to the Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Cabeza, along what is known as the old road or bridle path. San Ginés is the place where there is a kind of hill that leaves Andújar behind in the view, to soon resume the views of the Jándula river valley. Walkers usually stop there to rest and regain strength. The hermitage and its surroundings were also rehabilitated a few years ago.
10
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It is a trail that is located within the Sierra de Andújar Natural Park, and is not open to the public
8
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in National Park Sierra de Andújar?
There are 10 hiking routes available in National Park Sierra de Andújar, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy trails, 4 moderate, and 3 difficult options to explore the diverse landscapes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Sierra de Andújar?
Hikers in Sierra de Andújar will experience extensive and well-preserved Mediterranean forests, featuring holm oaks, cork oaks, and gall oaks. The terrain is varied, with gently undulating hills, rocky crags, and river valleys carved by the Yeguas and Jándula rivers, often leading to picturesque reservoirs like the Encinarejo Reservoir.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking routes in the park?
Yes, for an easy and pleasant experience, consider the Encinarejo Dam loop from Los Llanos. This 6.2 km path offers a gentle walk around the Encinarejo Dam, suitable for families.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints to visit during a hike?
The park features several significant landmarks and viewpoints. The historic Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Cabeza offers panoramic views. Other notable spots include the Valley Viewpoint and Los Pastores Viewpoint, providing stunning vistas of the natural surroundings.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Sierra de Andújar?
The Sierra de Andújar is best enjoyed during the cooler months, typically from autumn through spring (October to May). Summers can be very hot, making hiking less comfortable. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.
Can I expect to see wildlife while hiking in National Park Sierra de Andújar?
Absolutely. Sierra de Andújar is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. It's one of the last strongholds for the Iberian lynx, and you might also spot deer, fallow deer, mouflons, and wild boars. The park is also a birdwatching paradise, home to various raptors like golden eagles, Bonelli's eagles, and griffon vultures.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many routes in the park are circular. A challenging option is the Santuario Virgen de la Cabeza - circular through the Sierra de Andújar natural park, an 17.8 km loop. For a moderate circular walk, consider the Old Path Viewpoint – Membrillejo Stream loop from Santuario de la Virgen de la Cabeza.
What do other hikers say about the trails in National Park Sierra de Andújar?
The hiking routes in National Park Sierra de Andújar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-preserved Mediterranean ecosystems, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Are there any long or challenging routes for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the park offers several difficult routes. The Santuario Virgen de la Cabeza - circular through the Sierra de Andújar natural park is a demanding 17.8 km trail. Another difficult option is the San Ginés Hermitage – Bridge over the Jándula River loop from San Ginés, covering almost 18 km with significant elevation changes.
Is it possible to go stargazing in the area after a hike?
Yes, the Sierra Morena region, which includes Sierra de Andújar, has been declared a Starlight Reserve and Tourist Destination. This means it offers exceptional conditions for stargazing due to minimal light pollution, making it a perfect activity after a day on the trails.
Are there any trails that follow rivers or lead to water features?
The park's landscape is shaped by the Yeguas and Jándula rivers. You can find well-preserved riparian forests along their banks. The Encinarejo Dam loop from Los Llanos offers a pleasant walk around the Encinarejo Dam, providing scenic views of the water.
What kind of trees and plants will I encounter on the trails?
You'll hike through rich Mediterranean forest and scrubland, characterized by holm oaks, cork oaks, and gall oaks. The undergrowth is vibrant with species like strawberry trees, lentisc, myrtle, wild olives, thyme, and rosemary, creating a diverse and aromatic environment.
Most popular routes around National Park Sierra de Andújar
Most popular attractions around National Park Sierra de Andújar
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