Choice of routes: 7.5km to 12.5km
The region’s gently rolling hills are a paradise for walkers, with no shortage of easy paths through chestnut forests, cork-oak woods, farmland and peaceful river valleys. As you walk, you will get glimpses of Spanish rural life – men leading donkeys laden with vegetables and shiny chestnuts, shepherds herding goats, and farmers tending the black-footed, free-range pigs which feast at leisure on acorns.
La Peña de Arias Montano: 10km, 4hrs; longer option: 11.5km, 5hrs; ascent/descent 410m
Starting and finishing in Alájar, this route ascends to the cliff-top shrine of Peña de Arias Montano, which commands a grand bird’s-eye view of Alájar and the sierra beyond. There is an optional extension along an ancient muleteers' path to another higher viewpoint, offering further wonderful views.
Los Madroñeros circuit: 7.5km, 3hrs; ascent/descent 260m
This is another pretty walk direct from Alájar, and is shorter than the first, exploring the cultivated area to the south-east of the town, the banks of the River Antezuela and the previously abandoned hamlet of Los Madroñeros.
Linares de la Sierra circuit: 10km, 4hrs; ascent/descent 425m
Heading eastwards, you make your way to picturesque Linares de la Sierra, then loop back on a more northerly path to Alájar.
Alájar to Aracena: 12km, 5hrs; ascent 450m/descent 350m
This linear walk leads through beautiful scenery and the delightful village of Linares de la Sierra to Aracena, which you can explore before returning to Alájar by bus (pay locally).
Aracena circuit: 12.5km, 4.5hrs; ascent/descent 300m
Starting and ending in Aracena, just a short drive away, this easy route leads via the village of Corteconcepción, an ideal spot for lunch.