The best traffic-free bike rides in Laguna De La Ratosa

Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is home to large flamingo colonies and is considered one of the most important breeding grounds for this bird species in Europe, where they can be observed particularly well in the warmer months.

In the heart of Alameda stands the monument to José María Hinojosa Cobacho, better known as "El Tempranillo," one of the most famous Andalusian bandits of the 19th century. The bronze statue depicts him in a typical rebel and folk hero pose and is located on Calle Álamos, not far from the town center. El Tempranillo was born in 1805 in Jauja, near Lucena, and joined a band of highwaymen at a young age. Over time, he became a legendary figure, both feared and revered by the local population—a symbol of resistance against social injustice. After being mortally wounded in a raid in 1833, his body was brought to Alameda, where he died and was buried in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. The monument and his grave are now part of the "Ruta del Tempranillo," a cultural route that traces the life of the bandit. They are reminiscent of a time when outlaws and folk heroes often lived close together, making Alameda an important place in Andalusian history and legendary culture.

Alameda is a picturesque village that captivates visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and historically rich surroundings. Encircled by expansive fields and rolling hills, it offers ideal conditions for cycling tours through the Andalusian hinterland. The whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and shady squares lend the village its typical Andalusian charm. At its heart lie the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Placeta Fountain, reminders of the village's Roman roots. Alameda is particularly famous for the legend of the bandit José María "El Tempranillo," whose monument and tomb are now popular destinations for visitors. The surrounding area is easily explored by bicycle – passing olive groves, old farmhouses, and quiet paths that offer a glimpse into rural Andalusia. Alameda uniquely combines history, culture, and nature, making it an ideal starting point for peaceful, enriching tours away from the crowds.

Fuente de Piedra is a charming village whose name derives from an ancient spring believed to possess healing powers. The area was already settled in Roman times, and the spring was then referred to as "Fons Divinus." In the Middle Ages, a small settlement grew up around the spring, which later acquired its present name. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Fuente de Piedra was a renowned spa town thanks to its mineral waters, until the spring dried up. Today, the village's name evokes this past, while its history remains closely intertwined with the use and veneration of the water.

Designated trails run around the lagoon, leading directly to observation points and birdwatching towers. From there, flamingos and numerous other bird species can be observed undisturbed.

It's impressive how the mountain is slowly being eroded; one day it will be completely gone. The quarry is operated by Excomar Canteras S.L., a company specializing in the extraction and processing of mineral resources. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on the extraction of sand, gravel, clay, and kaolin for the construction industry. Also located nearby is the Áridos Mineral Processing Plant, where the extracted material is processed. The quarry thus represents an important industrial site in the Mollina region and is central to the local raw material supply.

The historic fountain is located in the center of Fuente de Piedra. Its origins date back to a natural spring known since ancient times. This spring was venerated by the Romans as Fons Divinus – "Divine Spring" – because its water was believed to have healing powers, particularly against gallstones. The name of the place, "Fuente de Piedra" ("Stone Spring"), derives directly from this spring. Over the centuries, it has remained a central landmark in the community. In the 1990s, the spring was uncovered and restored in the area of today's Plaza de la Constitución, so that today it serves as a historic landmark commemorating the town's Roman origins and long tradition.

The Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción is the main church of Alameda and is located in the center of the town. It was built in 1633 and expanded several times over the centuries, including the addition of side aisles and a Baroque chapel in the 18th century. The church displays typical elements of Andalusian Baroque, with a simple facade of stone and brick and a striking round-arched portal. The interior features an impressive high main nave, flanked by two lower side aisles, and a barrel-vaulted ceiling, which lends the space a harmonious effect. The church is particularly famous for being the burial place of the legendary bandit El Tempranillo, who died in Alameda in 1833. It also houses an ornate image of the Virgen de los Dolores, created in 1940 by the sculptor Castillo Lastrucci. The church is now a listed building and is considered one of the most important historical buildings in the area, combining both religious and cultural history.