CASTILDETIERRA, BARDENAS REALES
Circle route. Long Jump 1,16 km. Elevation 7 metres. Estimated tour time: 1 hour.
Castildetierra is the descriptive name of an incredible geological formation of the type known as Cabezo that is part of the semi-desert landscape of the Bardenas Reales Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve, located southeast of Navarra.
Cabezos are natural formations produced by the action of water in terrain whose upper layers are abundant in materials resistant to water, such as limestone and sandstone, but whose lower layers are composed of softer materials, such as clay and, therefore, easier to be detached by the erosion phenomenon. The result of the action of the elements are capricious forms modeled entirely by nature.
The beauty of this beautiful natural setting has attracted the attention of film and television producers. Scenes from the films “Mutant Action” from 1993 and “Airbag” from 1997 have been filmed on this site, as well as from the legendary series “Game of Thrones”. In the place there are different routes to follow and this time we present you a very easy one to follow, ideal for plans with small children.
This route begins in the La Blanca area next to Castildetierra and runs through one of the ravines that cross the Bardenas Reales.
Next to the beginning of the route, an information sign explains the process of landscape formation. how this unique landscape has been formed over the years.
We take the path that heads west until we go down to the Barranco de las Cortinas and reach an old dam, we walk among bushes and tamarisks. Next to the dam there is a path heading to the left that will allow us to return to the starting point.
On the way back, next to the parking esplanade is the Monument to the Shepherd, in honor of the nomadic people who took their livestock to graze in this territory. This route is very short and easy to travel.
– The head of Castildetierra is located on the western limit of the Bardenas Reales park. The best way to get there is from the town of Arguedas where the Bardenas Reales Information Center is located, in the Finca de los Aguilares, 4 km from the starting point of the route.
– At the tourist information center of the natural park you can obtain information about the routes and plans of the place. They have a small archaeological exhibition for the enjoyment of visitors.
– Next to Castildetierra there is a parking esplanade where you can leave your car.
– It is very important to follow the pre-established trails and not climb the slopes and tops of the formations because they can degrade, it is a very fragile ecosystem.
– Look carefully at the fauna and flora of the place, they are more typical of Africa than the north of the Iberian Peninsula, you will be able to spot owls, eagles, vultures, bustards, wild cats, foxes and some reptiles.
– It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing appropriate to the climate, which in winter can be moderately cold and in summer reach temperatures of 40 degrees, so it is advisable to avoid doing this route during the central hours of the day. It is necessary to wear sun protection because the shade is very scarce.
– Although the route is short, it is highly recommended to wear appropriate footwear, enough water to maintain hydration, and a very light snack. And enjoy this unique landscape in Castildetierra!
In what is now the town of Berbinzana, next to the Arga River, was the Benedictine Monastery of Santa María, which was donated by King García Sánchez III to that of Santa María de Nájera in the 11th century. In the 12th century, Berbinzana was already a town belonging to the Monastery of Santa María de Nájera. In later centuries, the town had various transactions and owners. By the 16th century it was granted the possibility of holding fairs and markets.