Spain is more than just sun-drenched beaches and bustling metropolises. At the heart of the country, far from the usual tourist trails, there are genuine hidden gems that offer travelers a unique experience. One such place is found in the region of Castilla-La Mancha, more precisely, in the province of Guadalajara. Here, amidst ancient pine forests, lies a trail that leads not just to a scenic viewpoint, but deep underground to the impressive karst sinkhole Sima de Alcorón. This adventure is accessible to anyone willing to spend an hour away from the rush and immerse themselves in pristine nature.
Journey to the center of the earth: a walk for everyone
Our brief journey begins in the picturesque village of Villanueva de Alcorón. This is where a well-marked trail starts, winding through a dense pine forest. The air is filled with the tart scent of needles, and the earth underfoot is soft and springy, carpeted with pine needles. The walk itself is not difficult: the path is even, with no steep climbs or descents, making it ideal for families with children or those without special physical training. The round trip takes no more than an hour, but these 60 minutes become a true meditation in nature. You won’t notice how, while enjoying the quiet broken only by birdsong and the rustle of wind in the treetops, you reach your destination.
Descent into another world: a play of light and shadow
Sima de Alcorón appears suddenly before travelers—a massive chasm in the ground plunging more than 60 meters deep. The sight is mesmerizing. But the real adventure lies ahead, as it is possible to descend safely into this abyss. Carefully installed staircases and sturdy railings turn the descent into an exhilarating journey. It unfolds in two main stages. The first staircase leads to a spacious platform, still bathed in sunlight. Sunbeams create a stunning play of light on the walls covered with emerald moss and lichens, making them shimmer in every shade of green. The second, a concrete stairway, leads even deeper, where twilight and coolness prevail. At the bottom, a unique atmosphere of tranquility and mystery awaits. Moisture and iron-rich water stain the rocks in reddish hues, creating an almost otherworldly landscape.
Echoes of the Past and Geological Wonders of the Park
At the very bottom of the cave, you can spot a small dam—a silent testament to the ingenuity of past local residents. In this arid region, where there are no surface water sources, people used the funnel to collect and store precious rainwater. This historical detail adds depth to the place, serving as a reminder of how humans have learned to live in harmony with nature over the centuries. Sima de Alcorón itself is part of the vast Alto Tajo Natural Park, renowned for its geological, animal, and plant diversity. The walk to the cave is just a small part of what this unique region has to offer—a real paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts.
The adventure continues: the stone city
For those who find an hour-long walk not enough, there’s an opportunity to further explore the wonders of Alto Tajo. Not far from Sima you’ll find another remarkable place known as the “Enchanted City of Ollo Redondo.” This fantastical cluster of rocks has been shaped into incredible forms by wind and water over thousands of years. Walking among these stone sculptures feels like wandering through the ruins of an ancient city, built not by human hands, but by nature itself. In this way, a short hike to Sima de Alcorón can easily turn into a full day trip, filled with discoveries and vivid impressions. It’s the perfect way to experience another side of Spain—quiet, mysterious, and incredibly beautiful.
