SL-CU 13 – Cañizar Trail
A visit to one of the best-known natural monuments of the Serranía
Route from Fuertescusa. Discover the Cañizar trail
The circular route of the Cañizar trail of a circular nature that immerses you in the impressive nature of the Cuenca Mountains. In this article, we will take you on a detailed tour of this circular journey that can begin both at the Bronchero source starting point and at the Lavadero de Abajo.
Two Starting Points
Your adventure begins at the Bronchero fountain where as soon as you start, you will be in front of a tufa hillside which has been sculpted over time by the waters of the Fuente Grande. This place is known locally as the «Bells of Uncle Thousand Hombres» and is located less than 100 meters to the left. It is a beginning that anticipates the beauty that is to come.
The Initial Path
From here, continue along a forest track that extends about 800 meters until you reach a junction with another similar path. At this intersection, you must take a narrow path that will take you directly to the Fuente de los Riscales, a charming corner that will connect you with nature in its purest state.
Exploring the CAÑIZAR
The path will guide you to Cañizar place, which in the past was a cultivated valley. Here, you can still see the vestiges of the dry stone walls that once delimited the cultivated terraces. This section of the route allows you to connect with local history and culture while enjoying the natural environment.
Back to Fuertescusa
As you advance, the trail becomes a path that will take you to a forest track that is part of the PR-CU-115 «Dehesa Trail». At this point, you must turn right and follow this route back to Fuertescusa, which is just over a kilometer away.
The Magic of the Environment
What makes the Cañizar trail a unique experience are its protagonists: the water, the limestone rocks and the exuberant vegetation. All of them combine to create the impressive barriers of tuff or travertine that constantly retain the riverbed, giving rise to a Truly original landscape.
Waterfalls and Travertine Formations
Following the path, you will reach the waterfalls, the most photographed and admired point of the entire route. Accessible via walkways and ramps, these waterfalls cover only part of the spectacular Cuervo travertine barrier. Most of this natural beauty remains dry and hidden under a dense pine forest.
A Charming Viewpoint
If you continue up the stairs, you will come across a beautiful viewpoint. From here, you can observe the wet tuffs and typical curtain formations up close. A little further up, you will find the backwater where the river calms down before rushing over the rocks.
The Esplanade and the Source of the River
Later, you will reach the esplanade, the plain formed by the travertine barrier upstream, which It works as a natural prey. At the end of the trail, you can see the source of the river, which flows from a crack in the rock. This is the main spring in the area, which provides flow to the Cuervo River practically all year round.
Continuing the Adventure
From the esplanade, you can follow the path «Climb to the Muela (PR-CU 78)» that will take you to the cave. Just 200 meters away, you will find a peat bog, and this short tour extension will allow you to extend your visit for an additional 15 minutes, giving you more time to explore.
Interpretive Signage
Be sure to read the explanations provided on the interpretive signage along the trail. These will help you enjoy, understand and value even more this wonderful corner of the Serranía de Cuenca.
Frequent questions
- What is the best time of year to do this hike? The best time to enjoy the Cañizar Trail Route is undoubtedly autumn, when the weather is responsible for molding all the colors that give it an extra charm.
- Is it necessary to have hiking experience to do this route? The Cañizar trail is suitable for hikers of all levels, although some hiking experience is recommended.
- What can I expect to find in the Cañizar area? The Cañizar area is a valley cultivated in the past, and still preserves the dry stone walls that delimited the cultivated terraces. It is an ideal place to connect with local history and enjoy the natural landscape.
- What is the highlight of the route? The highlight of the route is the impressive waterfalls and travertine formations of Cuervo, which you can admire from accessible walkways and ramps.
The Cañizar trail is an experience that combines natural beauty, local history and outdoor adventure in the Serranía de Cuenca. From the Cuervo waterfalls to the source of the river and the CAÑIZAR area, this route offers you an unforgettable tour through one of the most picturesque regions of Spain.
Discover unforgettable scenery and natural gems, every corner reveals the authenticity of the Serranía de Cuenca. Here you will find a selection of places you cannot miss.
