It is a gift to live close to several natural resorts in Andalusia. I personally live in Casares, and at the doorstep of my country house, I have a natural park laying right ahead and behind me. For those who search for an active daily walk, or a weekend trip out into the mighty mountains and forests of the area, this is the place to be.
This weekend I entered the Monte del Duque, a natural area given to Don Rodrigo Ponce de León by the Catholic Kings of Spain in 1491. It was passed on through heritage, becoming known as the Monte del Duque (the duke’s mount). It is a magical , over 2000ha. estate to walk through, with a breath-taking nature composed mostly by holm and cork oaks, ilexes and gall trees. You will also be surprised by the sudden appearances of the inhabitants of this park: roe deers, wild boars, fallow deers and mouflons. These native elements of the estate encircle the idea of an enchanted environment, where only you and nature form one.
Hiking trails in Casares are easy to access, even Monte del Duque
I took the Cañada Real, that runs throught the estate. This is the trail where it is permitted to walk without special permission, as it actually privately owned property. It is a stunning view you get over the valley looking towards Gaucín and Ronda, but also towards the Sierra Bermeja of Estepona. However, for those who wish to experience a ‘tougher’ walk, I would recommend you to go to the town hall of Casares and request for permission to enter the rest of the park to venture off to the white towns in the mountains such as Genalguacil or Benarrabá. You will only lust after the botanical and mycological richness of this place after your first hike here. There are also other adventurous tracks you can follow, for which you do not need permission, such as the route up to the peak of Sierra Crestellina (Casares) or in between the Utrera (a karstic set of nature in Casares). Casares is the place to be for these escapades in nature.
Nienke Ernstsen | 3rd February 2014
