The province of Albacete hides one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Spain. And it is none other than the Natural Park of the Calares del Río Mundo and La Sima. It is a tourist place that attracts attention for its 80 meters high waterfalls, for the water wells known as calderetes and for an impressive forest full of pines, yews, willows, elms and ash trees. All this serves as a backdrop to undertake one of the most exciting hiking trails in Castilla La Mancha: The Nacimiento del Río Mundo.
The tributary has its source in the town of Riópar, located in the region of Sierra de Alcaraz, right from where this low-difficulty excursion starts, although of course, most of the way is uphill. It is ideal for anyone; it can even be done with young children.
The route is 800 meters long. During the perfectly signposted route you will enjoy beautiful views through two viewpoints, the fauna made up mainly of deer, mountain goats, wild boars, squirrels and golden eagles, an impressive cave and several waterfalls.
What to do on the route to the Nacimiento del Río Mundo?
Riópar will become the starting point to enjoy the route to the source of the Mundo River. From there you will go to Siles and Chorros del Río Mundo. Leave the car parked on the nearest esplanade and start the walk through the park.
Enjoy its natural treasures, among them the cliffs of Calar del Mundo, which is a cliff about 300 meters high that is impressive to the naked eye.
This hiking route is signposted.
And although the stretch is mostly uphill, anyone can do it. To complete it is suggested to take the necessary precautions: wear comfortable clothes and shoes, small backpack, carry bottles of water, camera and, of course, all your energy to complete one of the best excursions of this 2019.
As you walk through the bushes, you will come to the Hueco de Los Chorros, whose amphitheatre shape will make you think about how curious nature’s whims can be.
Right in the middle of the route you will see how the Mundo river descends through cliffs and cliffs, forming waterfalls and waterfalls of singular beauty. Take the opportunity to appreciate the calderetas, which are pools of water that look great during the spring, due to the amount of water that runs through them.
In Calar del Mundo you will see the underground cavities, made up of galleries through which water flows and later forms wonderful wells and waterfalls.
One of the great attractions of this route is undoubtedly the Cueva de Los Chorros, one of the most important in the country. It is 25 meters wide, 15 meters high and has at least 50 kilometers of galleries inside.
Take into consideration that the entrance to the Natural Park is limited to 100 vehicles and 6 buses. The reason is simple: It is a safety method in case of fire emergency, which is activated mainly during the high season when the number of visitors increases.
Where to eat?
Is it possible to eat delicious food near the Nacimiento del Río Mundo after hiking in Riópar? Of course we do, especially in the restaurants of our selection:
Mesón Las Kañas
Here they serve delicious homemade food. In fact, it is one of the best places to eat in Riópar, so it is one of the most recommended by diners. Apart from being exquisite, the portions are plentiful. It also stands out for its good service and incomparable atmosphere. It is located in calle de Toledo, 4, in Riópar.
La Taberna de Los Vientos
At La Taberna de Los Vientos you eat very well. And so the diners have made it known. Perfectly prepared local food, with abundant portions and exquisite seasoning. It is also especially valued for the kind treatment of the waiters, who, without a doubt, know very well how to make the visitor feel at home. Find it in Almenara street, 12, Riópar.
San Juan Restaurant
It offers a great menu for a few euros. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best options because it allows you to taste delicious homemade food. Enjoy good portions and the attention of the best waiters in the area in San Juan Restaurant located in Maestro Galindo Arjona street, 10, Riópar.
Where to sleep?
Riópar has a wide tourist offer. And for that reason it also offers visitors excellent places to stay. Here is one of the most recommended:
Hotel Rural Cortijo Puente Faco
If you are looking for a quiet place, with good services and stunning views, then the Hotel Rural Cortijo Puente Faco is an excellent choice. This place of accommodation is on a mountain and offers an incomparable panoramic view of the park. Its rooms are comfortable, WiFi and free parking.
Hotel Riópar Spa
This is another of the alternatives to rest quietly in Riópar. It has an indoor pool, comfortable rooms with views of the Alcaraz and Segura mountains, spa, TV and free WiFi. There you will also find a restaurant where you can taste delicious Spanish dishes.
Rio Mundo Hostel
It is located in the town and has become an accommodation option in recent months. Its comfortable rooms offer satellite TV, free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom. The hostel is located a few kilometers from the Calares Natural Park.
How to get there?
To visit the Nacimiento del Río Mundo you should make a first stop in Riópar. And then we will tell you how to get there from Albacete. Riópar is located right on the CM-412 road, between the towns of Eche de la Sierra and Alcaraz.
To travel by car it is necessary to take the road N-322 that will lead you to Alcaraz. After another 11 kilometres, take the CM-412 road, which connects with Riópar.
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