Cañizar del Olivar and its campsite are located at a crossroads of landscapes, counties and roads. Far from the noise of the big cities but close to beautiful places. Here we tell you about some of the excursions you can do to discover these sometimes hidden landscapes; but it will be the traveller’s curiosity to discover many more routes and variants of them to adapt them to their preferences.
ROUTE 1: Source of the Pitarque River
If you plan to stay at Camping Las Aguas, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the most outstanding natural jewels of Maestrazgo: the Natural Monument of the Source of the Pitarque River. This route combines history, spectacular flora and fauna, and is a perfect experience to share with the family.
How to get there?
From Camping Las Aguas, you can drive to the village of Pitarque on the A1702 (31.1 km), which is very close by. Before entering the village, you will find a recommended car park, although this can fill up quickly in high season. Take the opportunity to stroll through the charming village of Pitarque and discover its church, the oven, the washhouse, and the blacksmith’s building, among other places full of history and charm.
On the official Maestrazgo tourism website you can find more details about access: https://turismomaestrazgo.org/
The route to the source of the Pitarque river
This route is considered one of the busiest trails in the province of Teruel and stands out for being accessible and suitable for the whole family. It is an out-and-back route, totalling 10 kilometres, with a difference in altitude of 150 metres. Completing the route without stopping takes approximately 2 hours and a half, and it is perfectly signposted.
- Flora and fauna: Along the leafy valley, you can see oaks, maples and hazelnut trees, as well as spectacular fauna such as mountain goats, otters and birds of prey such as golden eagles and griffon vultures.
- Highlights: Halfway along the route is the Ermita de la Virgen, and further on the path crosses a limestone canyon with unique shapes, the result of water erosion.
The final stretch is a true work of natural art. After crossing a bridge, you will come to the springs of the river Pitarque. The main one, ‘El Ojo de la Fuente’, can reach a flow of up to 1,500 litres per second. Other springs such as “La Chimenea” offer a spectacle to admire, especially after heavy rains.
Although the official source of the river is in Fortanete, this is where the river emerges with all its strength, leaving an image that will stay with you forever. To find out more about the Natural Monuments of Aragon, you can visit the official website: Monumentos Naturales Aragón.
ROUTE 2: The Organs of Montoro
If you are staying at Camping Las Aguas, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy one of the most emblematic routes in the Maestrazgo region. This linear route, following the PR-TE 9 short distance footpath, connects the towns of Montoro de Mezquita and Villarluengo, offering landscapes that seem to be straight out of a dream.
One of the possible excursions has a distance of 11 km and lasts approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. Its level of difficulty is moderate, ideal for hikers with some experience and a desire to explore a unique natural environment. Along the way, you will not only contemplate the majestic Órganos de Montoro, but you will also have the opportunity to explore other fascinating places such as the Natural Monument of the source of the river Pitarque.
The starting point: Montoro de Mezquita The route starts next to the washing place in Montoro de Mezquita and heads east, along a path that climbs halfway up the slope between rocks. Just 1.3 km from the start is the hermitage of San Pedro de la Roqueta, a place steeped in history and tradition. Built on a rocky spur, this hermitage seems to be suspended in time, offering the perfect place for a short rest.
The conquest of Muela Mala
After saying goodbye to the hermitage, the path begins to ascend until it reaches the highest point of the route: the Muela Mala. From this elevation, a spectacular view of the Órganos de Montoro, an impressive geological formation that defies the imagination, unfolds before your eyes.
The descent to Villarluengo
The route descends gradually, transforming the landscape from scrubland to pine forest and then to riverside woodland. On the way, you will cross the A-1702 road and arrive at the Hostal de la Trucha, located next to the river Pitarque. Here, you can opt to add a visit to the Natural Monument of the Source of the Pitarque River, a wonder that is definitely worth the extra effort.
Final stretch
Continuing along the path, the route climbs again, crossing the road and linking up with the GR 8. After reaching the 1103 metres of the Puerto de Villarluengo pass, it descends to the Fuente del Siscar, a recreational area ideal for a final respite. From here, an easy 500-metre stretch takes you to the picturesque village of Villarluengo, where the adventure comes to an end at an altitude of over 1,100 metres. If you don’t have two cars, plan circular routes or a return trip to the starting point by calculating the distances.
ROUTE 3: Footbridges and Valloré viewpoint
Exploring the natural beauty from Las Aguas de Cañizar del Olivar Campsite
From Montoro de Mecquita, which can be reached from Cañizar del Olivar on the A-1702, you can embark on an adventure to the Valloré footbridges, the Valloré viewpoint and continue the route to Aliaga. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Footbridges of Valloré
The Valloré footbridges are a natural wonder located in Montoro de Mezquita. This family-friendly river walkway takes you through an impressive strait formed by the Guadalope river. The wooden walkways are anchored into the rock and offer spectacular views of the vertical walls, unique geological formations and local wildlife, such as the majestic vultures. At the end of the route, you can choose to climb up to the Valloré viewpoint, which offers panoramic views that will take your breath away.
Route to Aliaga
From the Valloré footbridges, you can continue the route to Aliaga, a journey of approximately 23 kilometres that connects both points via a river walk. In Aliaga, the Geological Park awaits you, a place recognised by UNESCO for its uniqueness. You can also explore the river path that passes by the La Aldehuela reservoir and the old thermal power station, and enjoy the viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the Hoz Mala and the Guadalope river.
ROUTE 4: Routes along the Martin River
Exploring the Martín river from Las Aguas Campsite
The Martín river is a hidden treasure in the province of Teruel, with spectacular landscapes that enchant nature and adventure lovers. Today we propose you to explore the Martín river straits and the fascinating Sima de San Pedro, in Oliete.
You can visit the Rio Martin Natural Park website here:http:parqueriomartin.com
The Martin Straits
Venture into the narrows of the Martín River, where nature reveals its strength and beauty in all its splendour. This impressive river canyon is ideal for walking along paths that wind through rock formations that look as if they have been sculpted by artists. The crystal clear water of the river, combined with the lush vegetation that surrounds it, creates a unique landscape. It is the perfect place for photography enthusiasts, hikers or simply to enjoy a day surrounded by calm and serenity.
The Sima de San Pedro in Oliete
A few kilometres from the Martín river, you will find the Sima de San Pedro, a geological wonder that will leave you speechless. With a diameter of over 100 metres and a depth of 80 metres, this chasm is one of the most spectacular in Spain. Inside it is home to a unique ecosystem, with bird species such as the griffon vulture using it as a refuge. It is a magical place for lovers of geology, biodiversity and bird watching.
Recommended route from Camping Las Aguas
From Camping Las Aguas, you can plan your routes through the Maestrazgo or along the Martín river. The campsite offers a quiet and comfortable environment to rest before or after your excursions. Moreover, being located in a privileged area of Teruel, you will have quick access to these impressive natural destinations.
The campsite reception will be happy to answer your questions to help you plan your trip and to try to help you with whatever you need.
Recommendations for routes in this area:
- Bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture unforgettable moments.
- Check timetables and weather conditions for maximum enjoyment.
Ready to live the adventure and discover the treasures that surround Camping Las Aguas? Nature is waiting for you! For more information about the campsite, check this link, make your reservation and get ready to explore!
