The best MTB trails around Frailes

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).

It stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Montefrío (Granada, Andalusia). This Nasrid fortress was likely begun by Sultan Yusuf I in the 14th century (around 1352) to defend the northwestern border of the Kingdom of Granada. It consisted of two walled enclosures and several semicircular towers, with pathways carved into the rock and cisterns for water. Christian Conquest (1486): After falling to the Catholic Monarchs, a Gothic-Renaissance church was built within the upper enclosure, leveling the barbican. The church, known as the Church of the Town, was completed in 1507 and later expanded in the Renaissance style.

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. Founded in 1539, the town boasts a typical Renaissance townscape characterized by a checkerboard pattern. It was granted independent city status in 1558. Valdepeñas de Jaén offers numerous attractions, such as the Ermita de Chircales, a small chapel that reflects the region's spiritual history with religious paintings and a hermit's cave. Another highlight is the Molino de Harina, a still-working watermill that offers 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 trails offering beautiful views. The region is also a paradise for outdoor activities such as cycling. The lush forests and picturesque landscape provide ideal conditions for cyclists exploring the beautiful Sierra Sur. For a culinary experience, head to the hilltop restaurant El Quejigo del Carbón, known not only for its excellent cuisine but also for its breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Valdepeñas de Jaén is 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/

A tip: you should never go to the Castillo on Monday. Then it's closed 🥲 The 2 euro entrance fee should be worth it. The view is nothing to sneeze at either.

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