Trail Cerro de Monuera
Once we walk the first 200 meters from where we left the car, we find the bifurcation by which it is made circular, having to take the track on the left. It is from this moment on that we will enter into a darkness that will show us the best floral representation of this path: a melojar of Quercus pyrenaica, mixed with mustards (Sorbus tormentinalis) that will not leave us indifferent, especially if we make the itinerary in autumn or spring. They will accompany us for about 800 meters, mixed with magnificent copies of alcornoque (Quercus suber) and oak (Quercus ilex), until we reach a new fork that we will take back to the left. If we have been careful enough, we will have observed that, on our left, we have been able to enjoy some magnificent panorama of the Aldeaquemada core.
For 900 meters more the vegetation will become black pineapples (Pinus pinaster), accompanied by madroños (Arbutus unedo) and juniperus communis. It is easy that, so far, we have already seen some other piece of deer start his career when he has heard us, as it is a zone of love of this species. Right now we'll get to a firewall we have to go through. This forest fire defence infrastructure points to the limit between Mount El Chortal (owned by the Junta de Andalucía, for which we had been walking so far) and Mount Dehesa Navalacedra (owned by the City Council of Aldeaquemada). For 700 meters we will go through a mixed mass with pine pineer (Pinus pinea) as a more important species at first, which will then leave way for the cherries (with good examples of complaint, Quercus faginea) when we begin to accompany a small vaguada on our left.
In the end we turn into a forest track that we will take to the right, to leave it about 800 meters later taking the sidewalk that comes from the right. We just entered the public mountain El Chortal again. For about 2 kilometers we will be walking on a soloana, in the shadow of pine pines that will make us the most leading road. We can observe three stone canchals at our pace, typical of these natural spaces. Once we have reached an observation turret of fauna, our path will become a sidewalk with some slope (the most difficult part of the path) that will descend to the bottom of the valley, to go back to it.
It is the Arroyo del Tomadero, which in its first meters will delight us with a lush riverside vegetation with the aliso (Alnus glutinosa) and the strawberry (Fraxinus angustifolia) as protagonists, accompanied by a sotoscala that does so in some impenetrable points. In the middle of the way, a (non-potable) source will help us refresh in order to finish the promotion of this vaguada. A kilometer and a half upstream we will cross the Tomadero Arroyo to leave it behind, going up the path for another kilometer until we reach the main track. Taking it to the right will lead us, 400 meters later, to the fork with which we started the path. If we are attentive, we will be able to see on this final stretch, on our right, a fire surveillance turret that looks at us from above the Cerro Monuera, which we will have surrounded for just under 3 hours.
On horseback between the Natural Park Despeñacolos and the Natural Park Cascada de la Cimbarra, this path will allow us to know in all its splendor what Sierra Morena offers us in just over 8 kilometers.
We are in the municipal term of Aldeaquemada, one of the new populations created by Charles III, and whose visit is compulsory to restore strength when we finish this ameno path. This is a circular type, curling in the sense of the watch needles.
- In front of COVID19, keep the safety distance and carry a mask, avoid agglomerations and contact with surfaces, wash your hands frequently, use hydroalcoholic gel and consult the available digital materials. Take care of your health and others.
- It works to prevent fires. Do not throw cigarettes or any other object that produces combustion.
- By consuming local products and having companies in the area you will contribute to rural development.
- He lives with the local people and other users. It respects private property and property.
- Unwind in a sustainable way: public transport, bike, walk, shared vehicle...
- Noise is another form of pollution. In silence you will enjoy your experience more.
- It facilitates the use of people with special needs.
- The trash doesn't come back alone. Take her with you to the nearest container. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Don't leave a mark on your way through nature.
- It practices a responsible and committed tourism with the environment. Be a real ecotourist!
- Respect the facilities at your disposal. We all pay for your maintenance.
- Check the weather forecast before starting your activity.
- Avoid going out alone. If you do, it communicates tour and time of return to other people.
- Extreme caution under adverse conditions and with the occasional presence of animals or motor vehicles.
- Please provide prior information on the possible existence of cynegetic activity.
- It has water, sun protection, proper clothes and shoes.
- It carries a mobile with enough battery in case of emergency (112), but remember that there is not always coverage.
- Don't even bother animals. You would negatively alter his behavior.
- For your safety and the safety of the environment, don't get out of the signposted road or take shortcuts.
- Remember that the capture of animals, light fire, fish and collect plants or minerals is prohibited.
- If you bring a dog, take him with his strap and make sure he doesn't bother other animals or people.
- Your safety is our concern, but it's your responsibility.
Thank you for your cooperation!
The path starts a few meters from the A-6200 road that comes from the A4 motorway (exit km 250, towards Cadiz) towards Aldeaquemada. The start is at approximately 16 kilometric point on the right.
