The best gravel rides around Humilladero

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.

about 5,600 years ago 😮 1,140 tons 😲

The Conjunto Arqueológico Dólmenes de Antequera is an important historical landmark in Andalusia. The site consists of three ancient stone tombs – Menga, Viera, and El Romeral – as well as the natural monuments Peña de los Enamorados and El Torcal. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2016. The largest part of the site is the Dolmen de Menga. It was built between 3800 and 3600 BC using massive stones. A unique feature is that it is aligned with the Peña de los Enamorados rock. Nearby lies the Dolmen de Viera, which was created between 3500 and 3000 BC. It is constructed so that sunlight shines into the tomb during the equinox. The third part, Tholos de El Romeral, is located about four kilometers away. It was built around 2500 BC and has a circular shape with a special stone ceiling.

In the heart of Alameda stands the monument to José María Hinojosa Cobacho, better known as "El Tempranillo," one of the most famous Andalusian bandits of the 19th century. The bronze statue depicts him in a typical rebel and folk hero pose and is located on Calle Álamos, not far from the town center. El Tempranillo was born in 1805 in Jauja, near Lucena, and joined a band of highwaymen at a young age. Over time, he became a legendary figure, both feared and revered by the local population—a symbol of resistance against social injustice. After being mortally wounded in a raid in 1833, his body was brought to Alameda, where he died and was buried in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. The monument and his grave are now part of the "Ruta del Tempranillo," a cultural route that traces the life of the bandit. They are reminiscent of a time when outlaws and folk heroes often lived close together, making Alameda an important place in Andalusian history and legendary culture.

Alameda is a picturesque village that captivates visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and historically rich surroundings. Encircled by expansive fields and rolling hills, it offers ideal conditions for cycling tours through the Andalusian hinterland. The whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and shady squares lend the village its typical Andalusian charm. At its heart lie the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Placeta Fountain, reminders of the village's Roman roots. Alameda is particularly famous for the legend of the bandit José María "El Tempranillo," whose monument and tomb are now popular destinations for visitors. The surrounding area is easily explored by bicycle – passing olive groves, old farmhouses, and quiet paths that offer a glimpse into rural Andalusia. Alameda uniquely combines history, culture, and nature, making it an ideal starting point for peaceful, enriching tours away from the crowds.

The city gate of Antequera was built in 1749 in the Baroque style, demolished in the 19th century, and faithfully reconstructed in the 1990s. Today, the Puerta de Estepa is a symbolic gateway to the city.