Discovering the wonders of the Borosa River

Go hiking in the Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas Natural Park It can become a pleasant experience that will take you to know one of the most beautiful natural corners in all of Andalusia.

Some call it the “green jewel” of Andalusia and, the truth is, it is no wonder. It is a true paradise for nature lovers as it stands out for its uniquely charming places with almost intact nature and ecosystems with one of the largest forest masses in Spain.

The natural park impresses everyone who visits it since it has everything a good hiker can expect: many kilometers of trails passable on foot, bicycle or 4×4; a rugged relief with steep mountains and spectacular valleys; lush forests and many contrasts of landscapes; more than 215,000 hectares of protected space to explore; multitude of leisure and adventure activities to do any time of the year; among many other reasons.

If you have ever visited this wonderful natural park, you have probably heard of the Borosa River hiking trail. The ideal plan that will exceed all your expectations.

Among all the places, I assure you that the Borosa River route never disappoints. Do you dare to discover it?

The water mountain

In the natural park, we cannot ignore one of the main protagonists and the culprit behind the multitude of visitors visiting it every year: water. It is a fundamental element of the route of Borosa River and this great protected space.

There is an extensive hydrographic network and two sources of two rivers of great importance at the national level: the Guadalquivir river (of which the Borosa River is a part) and the Segura river. Although everything depends on the season of the year, it is very common to find water in abundance and carry out numerous ecotourism activities in Jaén such as a pleasant boat ride through the Tranco reservoir, in addition to other water activities such as rafting, kayaking, canyoning...

In the season of maximum rain and thaw (autumn and spring), it is easy to find impressive waterfalls, some of them appear out of “nowhere”. Among the most spectacular are Gil Jet, the Or it will be or that of the Cerrada del Utrero. Along the Borosa River, waterfalls appear that are truly marvelous.

In the case of the Río Borosa trail, the water springs from all sides and descends at full speed seeking its union with the Guadalquivir River, until reaching the Tranco reservoir and continue its course through the Sierra de Las Villas. Seeing it in all its splendor is a spectacle that I recommend to everyone.

Why choose the Borosa River route?

We propose a top hiking route in the Sierra de Cazorla. It will take you to know a charming natural space and indescribable landscapes, as well as one of the most important rivers of the Guadalquivir in its initial section.

The river is well known for its great flow and its fast crystal clear waters. The rocks in which the channel is embedded and the closed riverside vegetation make it one of the most spectacular river settings in southern Spain with places full of beauty. Nature and time have managed to form this fascinating river that is among the most impressive hiking routes in Spain.

Here you can appreciate the diversity of the landscapes, as well as impressive waterfalls and viewpoints. In short, it is a place where water and vegetation form an exceptional ensemble created by nature. There is nothing better than walking along the river bank, breathing the fresh air and appreciating such exuberant nature.

The complete itinerary

You cannot leave your visit to the Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Natural Park without having known the famous Borosa River route. Being considered the most popular trail in the area, no matter where you ask, they will be able to help you if you need information about the route.

To access the beginning of the marked trail, take as reference the Torre del Vinagre Visitor Center (Ctra. del Tranco (A-319) km. 48.8). The center is a landmark in the natural park and is very well indicated (you won't miss it). From here, you will find the sign that will take you to the Borosa River Visitor Center. The importance of the river, its popularity and its history has given rise to this interpretation center that I recommend you visit before starting the route. Next to this, you will find a large parking perfect to leave your vehicle, and the Borosa River Fish Farm (converted into a research and conservation center for native aquatic fauna).

In total, some await you 22 kilometers route (round trip), with a low difficulty at the beginning of the journey and increasing little by little until the end. The stipulated time is about 7 hours. Of course, you decide the pace to follow. If it seems like a lot of kilometers... Don't worry! As we will see below, the route is divided into different sections so you can choose how far to go. Everything will depend on you!

Beginning in Charco de la Cuna

The departure place is Cradle Puddle, where you will find an explanatory panel with brief information about the route. The beginning couldn't be better. It is a set of waterfalls that flow into a pond full of very peculiar rock formations.

The enormous natural stone pillar that forms it resembles a cradle, which is where the name comes from. Here you will have the opportunity to see a beautiful pool full of waterfalls. If you are not afraid of cold water and the weather is good, you can enjoy the occasional dip to cool off in this wonderful natural environment.

Fuente de los Astilleros and Arroyo de las Truchas

Continue along the initial part of the route, bordering the river, which you will not lose sight of, until you reach the Shipyards Fountain, perfect to take a breather and refresh yourself.

You will pass through a wonderful forest track next to the riverbed. A stream of great importance joins here, the Trout Stream. It is one of the most beautiful and honors the most characteristic animal of the entire route, the trout. I recommend walking at your own pace. Of course, the adventure has done nothing but move forward, so don't take too long since there is still a long way to go.

Remember that it is a unique opportunity to appreciate the vegetation that you will find during the route with different species of pines and native vegetation composed of gall oaks, rosemary, kermes oaks and strawberry trees that will give you the feeling of being in a fairy tale place.

Caracolillos Bridge

Continuing on your way, you can cross the Borosa River through the Caracolillos bridge. In this place there is a rocky fold formed by several geological strata from millions of years ago when the entire landscape was covered by a large ocean. Something very curious being at such an altitude... Right?

From the beautiful bridge you can witness a beautiful view of the Borosa River. It is the ideal occasion to relax listening to the sound of the crystal clear waters that will teleport you to a dream place full of peace and tranquility.

The Close of Elías

The star dish is Closed of Elías, about 3.5 kilometers (approximately) from the start. It is one of the most interesting parts of the route known for the beauty of its waterfalls. Also the most photographed area. The river is so confined in this section that you will have to go through wooden walkways framed by rock walls above the water. The feeling is that of walking directly along the river.

Through the natural channeling of the river runs an ancient fishermen's path of great geological wealth with a rich history to tell. We can highlight unique rock species such as the pinguicula vallisneriifolia, an endemic carnivorous plant that grows in the humid zone of this area.

Nidillo Strike

Leaving the Cerrada de Elías, many of the hikers turn around. I recommend that you continue to the Hydroelectric Power Plant and advance to the lagoons.

A forest track opens with a slight ascent that leads to the Salto de los Órganos Power Plant. But first we crossed another bridge passing by a spring source known as the Nidillo Strike. In this place there are some perfect meadows to take a break or stop to eat something.

The area has an iron pipe that flows into a stone basin. It drains on its left side into the Borosa River. From the spectacular plain you can contemplate the elevation of the southern part of the Banderillas mountain range (one of the highest peaks in the entire Natural Park).

Organs Power Plant

We continue the route with the hardest part since, at the end of the track, a path begins with a steep ascent but that will undoubtedly impress you. Along this stretch, the succession of small waterfalls stands out where the rocky walls meet the forest, offering incredible images.

You will arrive at the hydroelectric plant that takes advantage of the high slope that exists in the Organ Jump and uses water through pressure pipes to the vicinity of the power house. From here the most complicated and steepest section to the lagoons awaits you. But if you dare to take the step, I assure you that it will be worth all the effort.

Salto de los Organos Waterfall

From the Picón del Haza There is a waterfall of more than 170 meters. Continuing the slope, in continuous zigzags, the Borosa flows through impressive waterfalls.

The greatest wonder of this path is the Organ Jump, one of the most popular waterfalls in the entire natural park, which will leave an unforgettable impression in your memory. Finally, you will cross the Picón del Haza through tunnels excavated in the same rock, guided only by the light that comes through small holes in the rock wall. When you leave the tunnel it will seem that you have entered another world.

Valdeazores Lagoon and Black Lagoon

Finally, you cannot miss these two unique places of enormous singularity and beauty. The Valdeazores Lagoon It is undoubtedly a paradisiacal place that stands out for its color, an intense turquoise blue surrounded by vegetation composed of boxwoods, ash trees, gall oaks and maples, offering a miraculous landscape.

Very close, you will find the reservoir of Black Waters, another spectacular place where you can admire the source of the Borosa river with a truly picturesque landscape. The purity of the environment is breathed in the atmosphere.

Once you get here, the return trip along the same path awaits you. Remember to always keep in mind that it is one of the most protected areas of the natural park, since it is home to a delicate ecosystem with great biodiversity.

The best accommodations to stay during your stay in Cazorla

If your goal is to do the Borosa River route, I recommend that you stay in one of the many Hotels and Rural houses to stay in the natural park of Cazorla, Segura and las Villas. It will be the perfect excuse to spend unforgettable days full of magic.

Accommodations in the Sierra de Cazorla

The El Rinconcillo Wooden Cabins They are the perfect accommodation to disconnect for a few days as they are located in nature away from the daily hustle and bustle, in Arroyo Frío. The property offers a wooden bungalow, a terrace with wonderful views and a beautiful garden.

Another option that will not disappoint you is the Hotel Rural Noguera de la Sierpe. An establishment characterized by its rustic style surrounded by forest and in the middle of a mountainous landscape that will make you experience unparalleled sensations. Guests rate it highly and no wonder, as it offers excellent, high-quality facilities.

The Campillo Rural Apartments They are located in a magnificent environment. It is an ideal place to rest and relax. You will be able to enjoy the fresh air and of course a wonderful, intimate and cozy natural environment. The apartments have all the necessary conditions to enjoy wonderful days in nature.

Accommodations in the Sierra de Segura

In Pontones you will find the cozy Rural House El Nacimiento which offers beautiful views of the river and a spectacular terrace where you can relax and take advantage of a ray of sun while admiring the amazing green landscape that surrounds you. The ideal occasion to capture more than one photograph and immortalize a beautiful memory of this great adventure.

The Mirador de Messia de Leiva It is located in a privileged environment in the center of the historic city of Segura de la Sierra. These apartments conquer their guests with both their refined atmosphere and their hospitality. From its rooms you can see spectacular views of the Guadalimar Valley.

The Segura Orchards They are accommodations located in the spectacular surroundings of La Segura de la Sierra. These apartments conquer visitors with their rustic, cozy style and are equipped with all the facilities to make your stay wonderful. It has a terrace where you can appreciate incredible views of the mountains and surroundings.

Accommodations in the Sierra de las Villas

The Rural House Ruiz Hernando in Villanueva del Arzobispo is an establishment with excellent customer reviews. Just a few kilometers away you can discover the charms of the Sierra de las Villas and spectacular places such as Charco del Aceite.

Another of the houses to stay in the town of Villanueva del Arzobispo is the House of the Mercantile Circle. These are apartments in excellent condition that are part of a completely renovated historic house.

If you are a large group and want a more private accommodation for yourself, the perfect accommodation is The Cortijo El Nolo with a capacity of up to 15 people. A place where you will surely spend unforgettable days and nights to remember after your experience in the natural park.

Other activities to do near the Borosa River

I advise you to stay several days to enjoy many other hiking routes or other activities. You will find many options for adventure activities in the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas Natural Park. Do you want to know the experiences you can enjoy outdoors in this impressive place? Pay attention to the following!

Horse ride

Imagine touring the natural park on the back of a horse. It is a very beautiful experience that will allow you to be in contact with nature through a horse ride. You will enjoy a pleasant day discovering the highly valuable spaces that the Sierra de Segura houses, such as the surroundings of the Tranco reservoir or one of the highest peaks, El Yelmo.

Rafting on the Guadalquivir River

If you love feeling the adrenaline you can't miss this rafting route along the Guadalquivir river, where you may have the opportunity to encounter species such as the otter that lives in the riverside forests. A unique experience perfect to release all the adrenaline you have inside. Fun is assured.

Water activities in the Tranco reservoir

At the Tranco reservoir you will find all kinds of water activities to spend the entire day. If you are more of a paddler, you have a guided kayak throughout the reservoir. If, on the other hand, you prefer to pedal, you have the option of exploring it on your own in a pedal boat. For those who want more comfort, I recommend a nice guided solar boat ride.

Canyoning in the Cerrada del Utrero

If you want to practice canyoning in Sierra Cazorla The best place for this is the Cerrada del Utrero. Thanks to this experience you will discover a multitude of jumps and pools that will leave you breathless. You also have the option of walking through the closed area on a path in an easy-level circular route.

4×4 route to observe wildlife

Would you like to see the fauna that Sierra Cazorla houses? A 4×4 route It is the best option to explore the natural space with total comfort and agility to observe a large number of species such as ibex, deer, fallow deer, golden eagle or wild boar. Additionally, with this route you have the option of staying in the upper part of the Borosa River and doing the entire route in the opposite direction than usual.

Recommendations when hiking

Hiking is one of the most beautiful ways to spend time outdoors. However, you must follow some guidelines to avoid certain dangers and to make your experience as rewarding as possible.

I am going to tell you some recommendations and tips that can help you when hiking on any route, such as the Borosa River.

Be well informed about the route

Before starting the route, first find out the duration of the mountain route you want to cover, the degree of difficulty, as well as the weather. Use the maps to guide you and your schedule forecast to make sure you stay on schedule.

Choose well what you are going to wear

Use hiking shoes and clothing. Not just any shoe will do for trekking, the ideal is mountain-friendly footwear with a thick sole, that supports the ankle and is waterproof to prevent any slipping. Clothing should be comfortable that allows movement, breathable and waterproof that provides warmth in case a change in weather surprises us.

trekking utensils

Depending on the difficulty of the route, you will need special sports equipment. You could bring with you an accessory that will make your journey easier, such as trekking poles for better balance and reduction of knee fatigue. A smart watch to monitor your heart rate, your stress level and to know which direction to take. Other utensils such as a knife or first aid kit will be very useful. I recommend you take a look at this post where you will find all kinds of multitools.

Nutrition and hydration

Pay special attention to nutrition and hydration during hiking, very important to avoid fainting. Carry at least a liter and a half of water and light food to replenish energy during the walk. Don't forget to make stops for a few minutes to rest.

Covid-19 measures

Finally, do not forget to take into account the Covid-19 recommendations imposed by the authorities and health workers, such as maintaining a safe distance, using a mask, frequently cleaning your hands, avoiding the gesture of bringing your hand to your face or limiting the exchange of objects with other athletes. Also keep in mind the safety protocols for carrying out mountain activities.

If you want to be surprised by a corner of Spain full of life, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore the Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas Natural Park with the fascinating Borosa River Route. It has all the ingredients to make you fall in love with this natural paradise in Jaén.