Viewpoints in Jaén: natural and accessible vantage point
Cultural landscapes are historic and natural heritage. Therefore, they should be accessible to all. Admire the great beauty of these views from the best-equipped vantage points.
Discovering the mountain ranges of Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas from viewpoints is an authentic experience. If there is something you simply have to do in the Province of Jaén, it's take in these immense, endless panoramas. These landscapes will unfurl before your eyes, whether from La Iruela or any of the numerous open balconies existing in Cazorla: blue reservoirs, frozen olive trees, pine trees all around, rugged mountains... In short, picture cards that situate you in solemn, natural beauty. However, these viewpoints in Jaén we will be detailing - located in the heart of the province and in the main city - present a peculiar feature that makes them even more interesting: accessibility.
Bujaraiza Viewpoint
The village of Bujaraiza is in Hornos, at the foot of the Tranco de Beas reservoir. Close to Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas, it is home to the remains of a castle built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The view from the viewpoint, located a few metres from the old quarter's cemetery, alternates between leafy pine trees - planted at the time by the locals - and the waters of the reservoir.
La Iruela Castle
La Iruela Castle, seat of the Templar Knights of Almohad origins (extended by the Christians in the 13th century) rises up on a large crag. From these heights, Cazorla appears wooded, with its farmhouses and olive groves, and settlements with medieval roots. Its Visitor Centre, despite lacking parking for people with reduced mobility, has an accessible entrance, lift and accessible facilities in general.
Riogazas Viewpoint
As these are castle lands, let's talk about another famous fortification. Salvatierra Castle - more popularly known as Castillo de las Cinco Esquinas - which was constructed in the Al-Andalus era, can be seen from Riogazas Viewpoint in Cazorla. This is another incredible vantage point with access for people with physical disabilities.
Paso del Aire Viewpoint
The Pico del Moro can be seen from here. Paso del Aire, in the municipality of La Iruela, allows visitors to enjoy views that include the Guadalquivir Valley and Sierra Campiña. Olive trees decorate the slopes but they aren't the only inhabitants of the mountains: Cazorla pines also draw your attention. This is in addition to so-called "forest-islands", or the neighbouring holm oaks.
Fuente Negra Viewpoint
Sierra de Las Villas hosts a natural viewpoint from which you can see El Tranco Reservoir. The Aleppo pine, one of the pine tree families that repopulated the Natural Park, stands out thanks to its presence, alongside the unavoidable olive tree. This is Villanueva del Arzobispo, just a few kilometres from the recreational area of Charco del Aceite. Soaking in the mountain air and shaking off your stress is possible here. This is available to anyone, given its accessibility.
El Neveral Viewpoint
What about the viewpoints in the city of Jaén? If you head towards Santa Catalina Peri-Urban Park, you can make the ascent to El Neveral Viewpoint. A wonderful view of Jaén and its plant surroundings await: Aleppo pines and olive trees, mainly. Just a stone's throw away, you will find a trail with the same name. This circular route is accessible and of low difficulty, making it perfect for a wonderful day out with your children.
