The best traffic-free bike rides around Lora De Estepa

The Laguna de Fuente de Piedra provides an important habitat for large flamingo colonies and is one of the most significant breeding grounds for this bird species in Europe. The shallow salt lagoon offers ideal conditions for the birds, allowing them to be observed there in large numbers, especially during the warmer months.

Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is home to large flamingo colonies and is considered one of the most important breeding grounds for this bird species in Europe, where they can be observed particularly well in the warmer months.

The Vicaría Observatory (Mirador) is an official viewpoint at the Fuente de Piedra Lagoon and is one of the most important observation points in the nature reserve. From here, there is a good overview of the shallow salt lagoon.

Fuente de Piedra is a charming village whose name derives from an ancient spring believed to possess healing powers. The area was already settled in Roman times, and the spring was then referred to as "Fons Divinus." In the Middle Ages, a small settlement grew up around the spring, which later acquired its present name. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Fuente de Piedra was a renowned spa town thanks to its mineral waters, until the spring dried up. Today, the village's name evokes this past, while its history remains closely intertwined with the use and veneration of the water.

The Parish Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción) is the main church of Alameda and is located in the town center. Built in 1633, it has been expanded several times over the centuries, including the 18th century with the addition of side aisles and a Baroque chapel. The church displays typical elements of Andalusian Baroque architecture, with a simple stone and brick facade and a striking round-arched portal. Inside, the high nave, flanked by two lower side aisles, and a barrel-vaulted ceiling create a harmonious atmosphere. The church is particularly famous as the burial place of the legendary bandit El Tempranillo, who died in Alameda in 1833. It also houses an elaborate image of the Virgen de los Dolores (Virgin of Sorrows), created in 1940 by the sculptor Castillo Lastrucci. The church is now a listed building and is considered one of the most important historical buildings in the town, combining both religious and cultural history.

The section near Alameda is a particularly attractive route for cyclists, leading through vast olive groves and rolling hills. The landscape is characterized by typical Andalusian agricultural landscapes, small farms, and extensive olive plantations that stretch for miles. The focus of this bike tour is less on the physical challenge and more on enjoying the peace, nature, and characteristic Andalusian scenery. The road offers numerous opportunities to take in the surroundings at your leisure and experience the beauty of the olive groves up close.

Quiet route

The loop just before here was not very smooth. Ok for my 30mm tyres but probably worth missing out.