Gorafe: Dolmens and landscape along the Río Gor

Gorafe can best be explored through its megalithic heritage, the landscape along the Río Gor, and its various routes. If you are looking for a hotel in Gorafe, these themes can shape your stay: you can learn about archaeological sites, take in geological formations, or explore routes and astronomical observations.

Dolmens and archaeological periods

The megalithic landscape along the Río Gor preserves 155 megalithic tombs grouped into ten necropolises. The Gorafe megalithic complex comprises 240 dolmens, 198 of which have been studied and catalogued.

The dolmens are believed to be up to around 5,000 years old. Many of these tombs were used from the Late Neolithic (2800–2600 BC) to the Copper Age (2400–2200 BC). Most of the dolmens are spread across four megalithic parks: Llano de los Olivares, Las Majadillas, Hoyas del Conquín Alto, and Hoyas del Conquín Bajo.

Finding your bearings at the Interpretation Centre

The Centro de Interpretación del Megalitismo de Gorafe explains the significance of the dolmen complex. It has five exhibition areas with audiovisual media. Using Bluetooth, you can download an app to your mobile phone with detailed information about the three routes in the Parque Megalítico de Gorafe. This adds information about the park’s routes to your exploration of the tombs.

Gorges, erosion, and georoutes

The Río Gor has carved a gorge almost 200 metres deep into the geological materials of the glacis of the Sierra de Baza. The Los Coloraos area features steep slopes shaped by differential erosion. They resemble walls with bastions and are crowned by a whitish outcrop. Los Coloraos is part of the “Desierto de Gorafe” georoute.

The Vereda Chirlata route starts in Gorafe and passes through a landscape shaped by intense erosion, with arid or steppe-like vegetation, large gorges, and multicoloured, almost horizontal rock layers cut through by rivers. It offers cultural, scenic, and sporting experiences. Check route conditions before setting out.

One hiking route leads to dolmens on the upper plateau and then to another nearby concentration, with good views of the Río Gor valley. Another route leads to rock carvings (petroglyphs) in the province of Granada, described as the oldest in the province and very well preserved. Check the availability of each route before your trip.

Observations and access

The Complejo Astronómico Los Coloraos offers public and private astronomical observations, as well as science outreach activities. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is needed to access Los Coloraos. Alternatively, several specialist companies offer guided visits to the Gorafe Desert. Separately, a mostly paved, winding road leads from Gorafe to the plateau. Take the road conditions into account when driving up to the plateau.

Discover more destinations: Armilla, Darro, Lanjarón, Albolote, Cúllar Vega, Peligros, Válor, Gor.

For the broader travel overview: Granada.