We rolled out of camp and were straight onto the GR247, a 309km footpath circular loop, that weaves in and through the dramatic limestone crags of the Sierras de Cazorla and the Sierra de Segura, Segura y Las Villas natural park. With an area of almost 2,100 sq/km, it is the largest protected area in Spain and the second largest in Europe.


The first part of the day wound its way up through the forests and meadows, gaining height whilst following the Rio Guadalentin. Before eventually topping out onto the High Plateau of Los Campos de Hernán Perea. WOW! This section is definitely going into my shortlist of favourite gravel roads around the world.


Four little refugios provide shelter and water once up on the plateau. Other than that, it’s just a dirt track snaking its way into the horizon. Big skies, big vistas.


Except for a father and son on their horses rounding up the cattle, we didn’t see anyone. I loved it!


Once off the plateau, at Poyotello prepare yourself for a long hike-a-bike descent into the gorge. It’s really pretty and a stark contrast to the plateau, but it’s a single track walking path, steep and very rocky.