7 things to do in El Bosque

Summer comes to an end and El Bosque becomes one of the main destinations for rural tourism. During the winter months (December, January, February and March) the Sierra de Cádiz receives thousands of tourists and visitors in search of Nature, rural houses with fireplace and rural tourism. From Alsherry we recommend 7 things to do in El Bosque and the Sierra de Cádiz. Although many of them are suitable for all year round, we look forward to your comments!

7 things to do in El Bosque: 1. Majaceite river hiking

The river of El Bosque is one of the main tourist attractions of the Sierra de Grazalema, during the weekends it is full of hiking lovers who enjoy its wonderful landscapes. The route connects El Bosque with Benamahoma and has a distance of 4.3 km. Its difficulty is low and it is suitable for all ages. We recommend it for families with children and groups of friends looking to encounter nature in its purest state during the 2 hours that the route lasts. It is not necessary to ask for permission, access is free.

The route starts next to the fish farm of El Bosque, a good time to buy typical and freshly caught trout for yourself. During the route you will be able to see the fish in the southernmost trout preserve in Europe. It is a very special place because of its pictures and because it takes you to a fairy tale through its vegetal tunnels, riverside and grove.

 

7 things to do in El Bosque:  2. Hiking in the Albarracín region

If you have already done the Rio Majaceite route (El Bosque – Benamahoma) we present you a very different one. This trail connects the launch ramp of the hang gliders with the Albarracín peak. The ascent is steep and has a certain difficulty compared to that of the river. The distance to cover is only 1.4 km from the starting ramp, although if you want to extend it you can do the CXM Sierra del Albarracín Route and enjoy some impressive landscapes.

From the Albarracín peak you can see El Bosque and different neighbouring villages. One of the places where you can appreciate the whole Sierra de Grazalema and enjoy the sunsets. The maximum ascent is up to 975 metres. One of the favourite spots of the locals. It is not necessary to ask for permission, access is free.

 

7 things to do in El Bosque: 3. Garganta Verde Route

In the neighbouring town of Zahara de la Sierra (20 km from El Bosque) is the Garganta Verde, an impressive canyon formed by the river Arroyo del Pinar. The trail that runs through the Garganta Verde has a distance of 2.5 km and a high difficulty. It is important to know that it is necessary to ask for permission to access it, for this you have to visit the Visitor Centre of El Bosque (956 70 97 33). Without this permission you could be running a serious risk.

Through the Green Gorge Route you can find the cave of La Ermita, a marvel built by Nature with walls with different textures and a silence broken by the drops of water falling from the ceiling. Undoubtedly one of the most magical places in the Sierra de Cádiz. The Garganta Verde also allows the observation of one of the largest colonies of Griffon Vultures in Europe. Walking along the trails while the Griffon Vultures circle above you is a unique experience.

For a better enjoyment of the Garganta Verde we recommend you to cross the river through jumps, slides and rappels along its vertical walls.

7 things to do in El Bosque: 4. Paintball in El Bosque

For groups of friends looking for a different activity in El Bosque, how about a morning/afternoon of paintball? In El Bosque and in the Sierra de Cádiz you can enjoy paintball in natural settings. A way to let off some adrenaline and have a great time of laughter. The playing field is located in the Sierra de Grazalema and they provide all the necessary equipment (markers, protections, clothes…).

7 things to do in El Bosque: 5. Paragliding in El Bosque

How about getting to know the Sierra de Cádiz from the heights? El Bosque is one of the most important places for paragliding. With a tandem paraglider you can enjoy a sensation only for the most adventurous. Jump from the hang-gliding and paragliding launch ramp located on Mount Albarracín. For approximately 30 minutes you will feel one of the greatest sensations, flying over El Bosque and the Sierra de Grazalema.

Paragliding in El Bosque can be done through active tourism companies such as Zero-Gravity. A new way to enjoy tourism from the heights.

7 things to do in El Bosque: 6. Cheese workshop and museum

El Bosque is home to the Cheese Interpretation Centre of the El Bosqueño Cheese Factory, a company that has won numerous international and national awards for its payoya goat and grazalemeña merino sheep cheeses. In this museum you can learn about the cheese-making process, the artisan tools, reproduction of the native species and take part in cheese tastings and workshops. In its shop, located in the museum itself, you can buy El Bosqueño payoya goat’s cheese and products from the Sierra de Cádiz. Guided tours and workshops are available for adults and children.

7 things to do in El Bosque: 7. Botanical Garden of El Bosque

In a single place you can observe the different plant formations that grow in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The species vary as we advance along the route, simulating that we are ascending in latitude, until we reach the area dedicated to the Spanish fir. We can find plants such as the Grazalema poppy and the Spanish fir.

The Botanical Garden of El Castillejo represents the most autochthonous flora of the Sierra de Cádiz and Serranía de Ronda. A place not to be missed on your visit to El Bosque. It forms part of the Network of Botanical Gardens in Protected Natural Spaces in Andalusia. Admission is free and there is a free guided tour service for groups on request. Throughout the year it offers a series of free activities such as workshops and conferences. It is closed on Mondays.

 

In conclusion

Now that you know a little bit more about what to do in El Bosque , make sure you visit our post about Top things to do and visit in Lebrija for more information, experiences , or tailor made trips that will make you fall in love with Andalucía even more. And please for more info and insights, get in touch with us here or write us at info@alsherry.com and we’d be delighted to arrange / make plans with you or for you!