Higueruela: Nature and Cultural Heritage

Higueruela brings together a protected lagoon, trails through the countryside and historic sites. For your trip, you can focus on birdwatching, a hike from the town centre to the highest point in the municipality, or archaeological and cultural attractions. The history of renewable energy and the wine region are also among the town’s many facets.

Lagoon and birdwatching

Laguna del Salobralejo is part of a lagoon complex protected as a nature reserve and designated a Special Protection Area within the Natura 2000 network. Nearly 200 aquatic and terrestrial bird species use the lagoon as a breeding and resting area; it is suitable for birdwatching. This makes it an appealing destination for travellers who want to make nature observation the focus of their stay.

To go birdwatching, take exit 112 from the A-31 towards Higueruela. Before the bridge, take the right-hand track, which runs parallel to the railway tracks. Check the route locally before setting out.

Trails and landscape

Pico del Molatón stands 1,245 metres above sea level and is the highest point in the municipality of Higueruela and the northern half of Albacete province. The marked PR-AB67 circular trail starts in the town centre and leads to the summit. This makes it possible to plan a hike directly from the town. Check the signs and trail conditions locally.

Another notable landscape feature is Quejigar del Cantón, considered the largest Portuguese oak forest in the north of Albacete province. Cueva Horadá is a naturally formed cave that hikers and mountain bikers can visit. These sites add further nature-related points of interest to the marked circular trail, but should not be considered part of the same route.

Archaeology and architectural history

Alquería Andalusí de La Graja is an Andalusi archaeological settlement in Higueruela dating from the 11th century. Its remains include buildings and finds such as pottery and metal objects. Visitors interested in the town’s history can learn about an early settlement that differs from Higueruela’s later architecture.

Iglesia de Higueruela is a Neoclassical church dating from the late 18th century and attributed to Lorenzo Alonso Franco. The church houses an image of Saint Anthony of Padua by Roque López and the Gothic-Renaissance image of Santa Quiteria “La Vieja”. Cañada Real de los Serranos also points to historic land use: it is part of the network of livestock droving routes in Castilla-La Mancha, traditionally used for transhumance between winter and summer pastures.

Energy, wine and planning your visit

Casa de los Molinos offers a programme that includes an introduction to energy, a practical workshop, an exhibition of renewable energy models, an informational video and a tour of an associated renewable energy facility. Visits are available in the morning, last approximately three to four hours and are intended for groups of around 40 people. Confirm the programme, date and group size before booking. Casa de los Molinos began operating in 2001 and has since welcomed more than 50,000 visitors from schools, institutes, universities, associations and specialist educational institutions.

Wind power is also part of the local history. In 2000, the Higueruela wind farm was described as the world’s largest wind farm within a single municipality. Centro de Visitantes del Parque Eólico de Higueruela is associated with the wind power complex of five wind farms in the municipality. Check the current access conditions before your trip.

Higueruela is also connected to Ruta del Vino de Almansa, which highlights wines from the Denominación de Origen Almansa and the indigenous Garnacha Tintorera grape variety. A wine experience in Higueruela and Hoya Gonzalo includes a tour of a winery’s facilities, with concrete tanks, a bottling plant and a barrel cellar. A projection explains the winemaking process, followed by a wine tasting. Check the booking details in advance.

A pilgrimage has been celebrated in Higueruela since 1964. It includes a procession through the town, followed by competitions, running races and traditional games at Finca Casa Aparicio. The annual programme may vary, so it is advisable to check the dates before your trip. The “El Charco” recreation area is available for visitors and can be reserved; check reservation requirements before using it.

Discover more destinations: Cenizate, San Pedro, Villalgordo Del Júcar, Fuensanta, Fuentealbilla, Alcalá Del Júcar, Tarazona De La Mancha, Alpera.

Go to the main travel overview: Albacete.