Cobdar – Rio de los Molinos Circuit

Martin Peacock

You need to log in as a member of Walkingworld to access the details for this walk and have an active subscription. Please join, or log in above if you are already a member.

This short route is an excellent introduction to this corner of the Sierra de los Filabres. Although it is possible to complete the circuit in two hours, much more is gained by taking the time to explore the flora and fauna together with the remains of the area's Moorish heritage.

The route starts and finishes in the pretty white village of Cóbdar. There are two bar / restaurants in the village which offer excellent local cuisine. Initially the route passes through the dry upper valley slopes; these slopes are covered in almond and olive groves with the occasional passing herds of goats grazing beneath. Iron ore was being extracted on a small scale from the Moorish occupation up until the early 19th Century. The remains of these workings can still be seen.

The route then descends to the valley bottom and offers a short but welcome shaded area following the stream which, unusually for this area, flows all year. The availability of year-round water brings a wide variety of animals in search of a drink, from huge wild boar to delicate Chamois. The next section of the route climbs up the opposite valley side into a small pine forest. The final section follows the old path used by the villagers to reach their land. Whilst walking this section, try and spot the ruins of all six water mills that give the name to the valley.

Spain - Southern Spain - Almeria - Filabres