Just an hour’s drive from the bustling Andalusian capital lies a place that can completely change your perception of southern Spain’s landscapes. Here, it’s not sun-scorched plains or olive groves, but a world of whimsical rock formations, deep ravines, and emerald greenery that looks like the set of a fantasy movie. In this place, time and human effort have shaped a landscape that leaves no traveler indifferent, offering a unique blend of geological wonders and industrial heritage.
This is Cerro del Hierro—which translates as “Iron Hill”—located in the heart of the Sierra Norte de Sevilla natural park. Its striking terrain is the result of millions of years of karst processes, where rainwater slowly dissolved limestone, creating sharp peaks, caves, and sinkholes. Yet it was people who gave this place its final, almost alien appearance. Since the time of the Roman Empire, iron ore was extracted here—a practice that continued intermittently until the late 20th century, exposing the stony core of the hill. Today, visitors encounter a labyrinth of man-made canyons, tunnels, and galleries, all waiting to be freely explored.
In 2003, this area of over 120 hectares was granted the status of Natural Monument, underscoring its exceptional value. Special trails have been laid out here for the convenience of visitors. The most popular of these is a two-kilometer path winding among the remnants of old mines, offering a close-up view of striking geological formations and the colorful contrasts in the exposed rock layers. For more adventurous and curious tourists, there is an 11-kilometer circular route passing through a grove of Pyrenean oaks—an ecosystem that is quite rare for the hot climate of Andalusia.
Just a ten-minute drive from the rocky labyrinth lies another gem of the region—the cascades of the Uesnar River. These waterfalls, hidden in lush riverside vegetation, captivate with their beauty and crystal-clear water. Although swimming is prohibited here to preserve the fragile ecosystem, simply watching the flowing water and the play of light on its surface becomes an unforgettable experience, especially for nature lovers and photographers.
This unique ensemble of nature and history is located between two picturesque towns, San Nicolás del Puerto and Constantina, each worthy of a separate visit for its cultural heritage and gastronomic traditions. For travelers’ convenience, there is an information center at the entrance to Cerro del Hierro, where you can rent bicycles, book a guided tour, or participate in educational programs. The “Sierra Norte Greenway” also starts here—a former railway line converted into a scenic walking and cycling route. Getting there by car is easy, with public parking available nearby. A walk through Iron Hill is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal option for an unusual weekend getaway away from the city and in perfect harmony with nature.
