ANCIENT WILD OLIVE TREE TRAIL

Acebuche de las Hoyas

This agricultural path connects La Iruela with the ancient wild olive tree of Las Hoyas, one of Spain’s most remarkable trees, before continuing towards Cazorla through a unique olive-growing landscape. The large centuries-old trees, with their twisted trunks, create a setting full of character and tradition.

The route descends through terraces and traditional paths, accompanied by the murmur of the river and birdsong, while views open out over the valley and mountains. Pine groves, holm oaks and silver-toned olive trees create a landscape of outstanding beauty and ecological value.

Three olive-tree varieties coexist in this area: Royal, an elegant native variety; Picual, hardy and widespread; and the wild olive tree, the ancestor of the cultivated olive. They hold the secret of the oils produced in these mountains: knowledge and care passed down from generation to generation, resulting in extra virgin olive oils with unique aromas and exceptional quality.

Route distances

• La Iruela - Acebuche de las Hoyas: 5.5 km.
• La Iruela - Acebuche de las Hoyas - Cazorla: 13.6 km.

Topographic Profile

• Distance: 5.5 km.
• Severity of the natural environment: Low.
• Route-finding: Low.
• Difficulty: Low.
• Physical effort: Medium.
• Estimated time: 1 hr 40 min.

Features marked along the route

• La Iruela.
• Start of the trail.
• End of the trail.
• Ancient wild olive tree of Las Hoyas.
• Acebuche Sur wild olive tree.
• Typical foothill olive-growing landscape, Sierra de Cazorla.
• Centuries-old Royal olive trees.
• La Iruela Castle - Viewpoint.

Please bear in mind

• Respect the tree.
• Do not step on the root zone.
• Keep to authorised paths only.
• Take care when it rains.
• Do not leave litter.
• Keep noise to a minimum.
• The best photographs can be taken at sunset or sunrise.