The best MTB trails around Castillo De Locubín

From this trail you can access the waterfall which, when it gets the right light, looks magical.

There is almost nothing more typical of Jaén than the constant, and almost infinite, views of the olive groves.

Don't mistake the Fortress of La Mota for a castle! The entire city of Alcalá la Real was once located within its walls, and you'll need more than an hour to explore it. Guided tours are also available in German, French, and English (in addition to Spanish) if you'd like (maicamero.com).

Alcalá la Real is located at a strategic point between the Guadalquivir Valley and the plains of Granada, which has given it a significant role in Andalusian history. The city's origins date back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by finds from the Paleolithic and Bronze Ages. During the Roman era, the settlement of Sucaelo was probably located here. An impressive marble sculpture of Hercules also dates from this period. Today, Alcalá la Real is characterized by a diverse cultural heritage. The impressive La Mota fortress is just one of many historical buildings, which also include numerous churches and monasteries. The city is also known for its lively traditional festivals and diverse cuisine, which attracts numerous visitors.

Valdepeñas de Jaén is a charming town, nestled between the impressive mountain ranges of the Sierra de la Pandera to the north and the Sierra de Alta Coloma to the southeast. The town was founded in 1539 and has a typical Renaissance townscape, characterized by a checkerboard pattern. In 1558, it received the status of an independent town. Valdepeñas de Jaén offers numerous sights, such as the Ermita de Chircales, a small chapel that reflects the region's spiritual history with religious paintings and the cave of a hermit. Another highlight is the Molino de Harina, a still-functioning water mill that offers a fascinating insight into traditional flour production. Nature lovers can discover the Chorreras del Río Vadillo, a series of natural waterfalls formed by the Vadillo River and surrounded by paths offering beautiful views. The region is also a paradise for outdoor activities such as cycling. The lush forests and picturesque landscape offer ideal conditions for cyclists who want to explore the beautiful Sierra Sur. A culinary experience is offered by the restaurant El Quejigo del Carbón, located on a hill, which is known not only for its excellent cuisine but also for the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Valdepeñas de Jaén is thus the perfect place to combine history, nature, culture, and sporting activities.

Beautiful and lively place. Nice restaurants and cafes

Our municipality Valdepeñas de Jaén, in addition to having incredible places that are worth visiting, is surrounded by a natural area of great beauty, where the Sanctuary of the Santísimo Cristo de Chircales is also located. The hermitage that houses this work of art dates back to 1568, which means that it was built practically at the same time that the foundation of Valdepeñas de Jaén was inaugurated (1539). And the history of the municipality is deeply linked to the history of this Christ. Various Foundations and Chaplaincies are provided with this relationship to sustain the Christian worship and devotion of this place. Since the mid-16th century, the presence of some hermit priests who resided in Chircales and were linked to the priestly school of San Juan de Ávila, encouraged the material and spiritual construction of the Sanctuary in all areas. With this idea, the construction of the Sanctuary Church and other facilities began. Also with the aim of opening the hermitage to the faithful, it was probably decided to beautify this place, and thus commission the painting of the Christ of Chircales. https://corazondelasierrasur.com/blog/santuario-del-santisimo-cristo-de-chircales/

Well worth seeing and also very informative thanks to an audio guide.