Far from the bustling tourist routes, in the southwest of Albacete province, lies a true gem of the Castilla-La Mancha region. The village of Salobre, nestled in the Sierra de Alcaraz mountains, looks as if it has stepped straight out of the pages of an old fairy tale. Just a hundred kilometers from the provincial capital, you’ll find a world of steep cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and crystal-clear fountains. The town owes its name to ancient salty wells, around which its centuries-old history began.
The landscapes here possess a special, soothing magic. Two rivers, Salobre and Ojuelo, cross the fertile valley, irrigating the land and preserving the authentic spirit of rural life. The local mineral waters, revered for their healing properties for centuries, have given rise to two spa resorts. One, Benito, is located right in the town itself, while the other, La Esperanza, lies in the neighboring village of Reolid. Both offer tranquility, tradition, and the kind of fresh air that invites you to truly disconnect from the rush of everyday life. Hiking enthusiasts will want to visit the Nacimiento del Río Mundo waterfall, where water plunges from a height of over 80 meters, as if born from the very heart of the mountains. Nearby is the Estrecho del Hocino micro-reserve—a domain of mountain goats and otters living among rocky gorges and groves of oak and juniper.
Despite its modest size and a population of less than 600, Salobre’s history is filled with remarkable chapters. Archaeological finds from the Neolithic era show that these lands have been inhabited for thousands of years. Later, the Iberians, Muslims, and Christians each left their mark, and for a long time, the settlement was governed by the council of Alcaraz. In the 18th century, the municipality experienced an economic boom thanks to metallurgy—a tin factory operated here, connected to the plant in Riopar. Its ruins can still be seen by the river. Walking the local streets feels like a journey through time. The Hermitage of Virgen de la Paz (16th century) preserves valuable religious sculptures, while in Reolid, the church of Santo Domingo impresses with its Mudéjar-style coffered ceiling—a hidden treasure deep in the mountains.
Life in Salobre never stands still. In summer, the streets come alive with music, processions, and lively celebrations by the river during the Sacred Heart festivities. Ancient traditions are still cherished, such as bonfires on the night of San Juan or the pilgrimage on Saint Isidore’s Day, when locals gather outdoors to share meals, wine, and songs. Throughout the year, cultural, youth, and women’s associations keep social life vibrant. The library, playroom, and small craft workshops are the beating heart of this town, which stands strong against the passage of time while preserving its unique identity. Salobre is the perfect place for those seeking harmony with nature, immersion in history, and a sense of inner peace. From viewpoints like Las Colmenicas or Piedra del Águila, you’ll find breathtaking vistas of the mountain range, while the trails around La Herrería or Puntal de la Mina offer the scents of thyme, mint, and lavender. This is a place where the spirit of authentic Spain is still very much alive.
