Surroundings

Built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style, it stands out for its sobriety and great historical value. It once housed altarpieces and works of sacred art which, although now lost, bore witness to the local cultural identity. A visit lets you appreciate the religious heritage and architectural richness of the Rincón de Ademuz, a must for lovers of history and art.

On the outskirts of Casas Bajas, next to the River Turia, stands this old flour mill, whose concession dates back to 1828. Since its restoration it has become a museum and exhibition hall that takes visitors back to pre-industrial rural life. Outside, look out for El Caminante, a sculpture by Lucas Karrvaz that is part of the district’s sculpture park.

It stands on the other side of the River Turia, along the old road to Casas Altas. Built of stone and roofed, it is a magnificent example of rural vernacular architecture, where women once washed clothes using the water of the Fuente Vieja spring. Restored in 2009, it keeps its original structure and historical character.

In the El Pinar area stands an emblematic dry-stone building, made without mortar. This old shepherd’s hut, with rubble-stone walls and a vaulted structure covered with earth and vegetation, was a shelter for farmers and herders. Notable for its size and excellent state of preservation, it is considered the finest example of the district’s stone huts.

Declared a protected natural area in 2007, this 1,025-hectare space covers a valley and Mediterranean woodland dominated by pines, Portuguese oaks and majestic centuries-old junipers. It has interpretive trails, natural viewpoints and a picnic area. Famous for its biodiversity, it is home to species such as deer and eagles, as well as springs that feed the valley’s farmland.

Also known as Pico Calderón, it rises to 1,839 metres. The way up crosses lush pine forests, juniper woods and Mediterranean high mountain landscapes, ending at the summit, marked by a survey pillar. From the top there are breathtaking 360° panoramic views over the Serranía de Cuenca, Javalambre and, on clear days, even the Montes Universales.

At its heart stands a monumental thousand-year-old Spanish juniper known as the Sabina de Las Blancas, declared a unique tree. Its broad, twisted trunk, shaped by the passing of time, makes it one of the oldest trees in the region. This juniper woodland creates an almost magical landscape, with squat trees that defy the limestone soil and the extreme climate.

A short trail follows the river from Vallanca to Ademuz, crossing a plant micro-reserve on an easy route. Its lush banks, lined with alders and poplars, form a spectacular gallery forest that is home to varied wildlife such as trout and dippers. In autumn especially, the landscape fills with golden and ochre tones.

A trail fitted with metal walkways, steps and bridges lets you comfortably explore a canyon with dizzying walls and intensely turquoise water. Along its roughly 8 km, the path crosses dreamlike scenery: natural rock arches over the river and small waterfalls feeding crystal-clear pools.