The hiking route with endless waterfalls in Spain's Andalucía region, perfect to do this autumn

Autumn is an ideal time for hiking in Andalucía, as these months are accompanied by a drop in temperatures and a milder climate. There are many options in the region, but if you are looking for a route with lots of vegetation and water, the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas in Jaén province is a great option.

The Borosa River can be found in the Sierras de Cazorla and Segura, as well as Las Villas. The first part includes swimming pools, wooden bridges, and gorges above the river. This is the Cerrada de Elías pass, which is about seven kilometres long and takes around three hours.

To this point, there is little difficulty. You will see other tourists and hikers taking a dip in the crystal-clear water and geological formations along this path. You can find out more by continuing.

The trail is part of the group ‘Rutas Del Agua’ and begins in the area of the Borosa visitor centre where there is also a large parking lot. If you are staying less than six-hours, the price is 2,20 euros. For those who stay longer than six-hours, it’s 14.50 euros. After you cross the fish farm and leave the carpark behind you, you will see the river on the right. Next you will see the pools and then you will enter the Cerrada de Elías with the wooden bridges over the water.

You will need to continue the path once you reach the hydroelectric station. It is the last source of water in seven kilometres. Fill up your water bottle. After this point, the terrain changes. There are steeper slopes and a higher gradient, as well as a narrower path. It is worth it to continue on to the source. There are 25 km in total and the time will vary depending on whether you stop along the way. It can take anywhere between 8 to 10 hours.

As you pass the hydroelectric power plant, the number hikers drops dramatically and you might even see mountain goats or foxes. You will be able to see beautiful waterfalls on this stretch. The best known is Salto de los Órganos, one of the most spectacular in the natural park. We recommend taking a swim at the Calavera falls, which is a stunning spot.

After passing ‘organ Falls’, the slope gets steeper. To cross the mountain that you can see from below, you will need to climb up to the tunnel entrances. The passages are carved into the rock and you can see a part of your route. At the exit of the last one, it will only be a few minutes before you reach the Laguna de Aguas Negras or Embalse de los Órganos reservoir.

The route ends here, where you take the left-hand path to reach Borosa’s source. You can continue on the path beside the reservoir, before turning off to the Valdeazores Pool. However, you will need to add some extra kilometers to your route. Then, you can retrace the steps that you took and descend the Guadalquivir’s main tributary. It’s breathtaking.