The best traffic-free bike rides around Valdepeñas De Jaén

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

In memory of the man who was Justice of the Peace of Noalejo from 2008 to 2022, the town has named an avenue after him and to show its gratitude, the Town Hall has placed a monolith with an inscription carved in stone.

Next to the Town Hall and almost in the same square, is the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, which also dates back to the 16th century and is in the Mudejar style. As a curious fact, it has inside a painting of the town's patron saint, the Virgin of Bethlehem, and a copy of the Shroud of Turin, both from the 16th century and which belonged to Doña Mencía de Salcedo.

In the same town square is the municipal building, which dates back to the end of the 16th century, although this building originally had a different purpose, as it was built for religious purposes. Thus, the façade contained a bell gable in which a bell was installed, which no longer exists after the renovations carried out on this building.

Just before entering the square of Noalejo, we find this beautiful mural that is worth seeing. It is a painted representation of local tasks and the most popular festivals of the town. There we can see the action of harvesting olives, as well as the geographical description of the area by the visualization of several mountains. Likewise, we can also see one of the most significant Spanish traditions whose practice is limited to the town's festivals, and that hobby is bullfighting.