The best walks and hikes around Mancha

The Herencia Windmills are one of the most characteristic symbols of La Mancha and are located in the town of Herencia (Ciudad Real). The first windmill was built in 1790 because they were more economical and efficient than water mills, especially in an area with limited waterways. By 1807, there were as many as 11 mills, although seven remain today: El Ama, La Niece, Dulcinea, Maritornes, La Dueña Dolorida, La Duquesa, and Teresa Panza. Four of them were restored in 2003, giving them the typical La Mancha image we associate with Cervantes' work.

The Permanent Lagoon in Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park is a linear route of approximately 800 meters. It includes two wildlife observatories from which you can see a variety of aquatic birds depending on the season. Between the observatories and on the shore of the lagoon, a riparian forest composed almost exclusively of white poplars grows.

The Tablas de Daimiel are a fascinating place to visit! Free Visit: You can explore the park's trails for free and without prior reservation. The trails are open from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset. Guided Tour: There are several guided tour options available to book: Guided Hiking: Ideal for exploring the park on foot with an interpreter. 4x4 Tour: Explore restricted areas of the park by all-terrain vehicle.

The Prado Ancho Tower is one of the highlights of Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park. This approximately 4-kilometer linear trail takes you through four wildlife observatories before reaching the tower.

The route also includes several wildlife observatories from which you can see ducks and other waterfowl. It's an excellent way to enjoy the biodiversity and unique landscapes of this wetland.

Bread Island is one of the best-known hikes in Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park. This circular trail, approximately 2 kilometers long and lasting 1 to 1.5 hours, takes you through several islands connected by wooden walkways. During the hike, you'll pass the islands of La Entradilla, El Descanso, del Pan, de los Tarayes, and del Maturro. Each island offers different opportunities to observe the park's flora and fauna. For example, on Bread Island, you can see a tamarisk forest where various birds such as the green woodpecker, the hoopoe, and the long-eared owl nest.

In Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park, there are several wildlife observatories where you can enjoy bird and animal watching. Observatories at the Permanent Lagoon: This 800-meter linear trail takes you to a lagoon from whose observatories you can see various aquatic birds depending on the season. Observatories on the Prado Ancho Tower Route: This 4-kilometer trail includes four wildlife observatories and ends at a two-story tower that offers impressive panoramic views of the wetland. Observatories on the Bread Island Route: This 2.5-kilometer circular trail is the most popular in the park and has several observatories where you can see ducks and other aquatic birds.

The Acclimatization Lagoon in Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park is a small, enclosed lagoon used for the recovery of sick birds, their breeding, and their subsequent release into the park. It is located on the Isla del Pan trail, a 2.5-kilometer, easy-to-follow circular route. This trail is very easy to follow and allows you to observe a wide variety of aquatic birds. The lagoon is covered with a mesh netting that prevents birds from flying out of the enclosure.