Cáceres Route Descends Through Protected Gorge

In Cañamero, Spain, a roughly three-kilometer route follows the Ruecas River through the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Geopark. The path winds through a gorge carved by tectonic activity and water over millennia.

It blends Mediterranean ecosystems with clear pools and shelters fossils from prehistoric seas. The route is easily accessible and suitable for families, offering shade from the southern Spanish heat.

The designated Blue Trail section spans about 700 meters, showcasing significant geological and cultural value. Visitors can stop at the Nutria pool for a swim or explore sites like the old Valbellido Mill. Rock faces reveal fossilized marine life from the Paleozoic era, along with prehistoric cave paintings in spots like Cueva Chiquita.

Two interpretive centers near Cañamero offer deeper insight into the area’s geology and biodiversity. While the route received the Blue Trail distinction in 2025, further research continues to uncover the full extent of the region’s paleontological and artistic heritage.