Route of the Sabre-toothed Cat

The Route of the Sabre-toothed Cat is 10 km and the longest path of all the Prehistoric Routes in the municipality of Padul (the other ones are the Route of the Mammoth and the Route of the Woolly Rhinoceros). The route crosses the nature area of Sierra Nevada mountains and is the best choice if you want to enjoy splendid views of Padul Lake, as it takes you round it.

There are several recommended stops along the way, like the Padul Iberian-Roman Road, a wooden hide from which to observe the large lake (which is about 300 hectares), and El Aguadero Nature Centre. This centre offers information on local flora and fauna and there are workshops and activities for the little ones. One of the most popular and interesting workshops is bird ringing (by prior appointment and for groups).

More than 205 bird species have been recorded at Padul. Water birds include the little grebe, grey heron, little bittern, kingfisher, several species of ducks like the mallard, widgeon and common pochard, and Rallidae like the coot and the rare Baillon's crake.

You should begin the route at Jardines de la Estación gardens, next to Padul Town Hall, where there is a large area to park the car. A series of monoliths with the three prehistoric animals lead you to the path you want.

The landscape at Padul Lake is one of its main attractions: Cerro del Caballo, in the background, which is usually snow-capped, and many springs around the lake stand out especially.