Gullurías Trail

The trail is typically accessed from the area around the Hermitage of Saint Bartholomew. Parking is usually available nearby, though it can get busy during peak seasons. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

While generally considered to have a low to medium difficulty, this trail includes an initial continuous and steep ascent. After this climb, the path tends to flatten out before descending. A good physical condition and appropriate footwear are recommended due to varied terrain, including rocky sections. It's a rewarding challenge for those with some trail running experience.

You'll experience diverse terrain, including dense forests of sabines, pine trees, and quejigos, offering shaded sections. There are also rocky parts and areas with aromatic plants like lavender and rosemary. A significant portion of the route provides elevated views of the Cañón del Río Lobos, showcasing impressive limestone cliffs.

Key highlights include the historic Hermitage of Saint Bartholomew, a 13th-century Templar site. You'll also pass the Gullurías Viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views, and get a unique perspective of the hermitage from View of the Hermitage of San Bartolomé from Cueva Grande. The trail also features ancient kilns and geological formations.

The Cañón del Río Lobos is rich in wildlife. You're likely to spot various birds of prey, such as griffon vultures, golden eagles, and Egyptian vultures soaring above the canyon. Other fauna includes wild boars, squirrels, badgers, and otters. The 'Gullurías' in the trail's name refers to the Alondra Totovía, a small lark often seen among the sabines.

Yes, the Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park generally allows dogs, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Spring and autumn are generally the best times to run this trail, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be very hot, especially in exposed sections, so an early start is recommended. Winter can be beautiful but may present slippery conditions if wet, and some sections might be colder.

Typically, there are no entrance fees or specific permits required to access the general areas of the Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park for activities like trail running. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website or local information centers for any updated regulations or specific restrictions that might apply during certain seasons or for particular activities.

This circular route offers a unique, elevated perspective of the Cañón del Río Lobos, largely avoiding the often-crowded main path along the riverbed. By taking the Senda de las Gullurías, you can enjoy a more tranquil experience of the natural park, especially during peak seasons, while still appreciating its natural beauty and historical sites from a different vantage point.

Yes, the route incorporates significant sections of the Senda de las Gullurías and also passes through parts of the Senda del Río, Senda del Castillo, and briefly touches the GR 160 - Camino del Cid BTT.

Given the initial continuous and steep ascent mentioned in the trail description, many runners might prefer to tackle this climb early on. Running the trail in a clockwise direction would typically mean getting the most challenging elevation gain out of the way first, allowing for a more gradual descent and flatter sections towards the end. However, both directions offer a rewarding experience.