Good news for riders tackling the Ibérica-Traversa road route – the stretch through El Colmenar has received a welcome upgrade with a new road surface. The smoother tarmac makes this scenic segment even more enjoyable, offering a more fluid ride through one of southern Spain’s most beautiful rural areas.
Nestled between cork oak forests and rugged mountains, El Colmenar is a peaceful stopover that attracts hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. The Guadiaro River, which flows alongside the route, supports a rich ecosystem. Its lush, green banks are home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, making the area a true biodiversity hotspot.
The surrounding forests are dominated by cork oak trees (Quercus suber), which flourish in the Mediterranean climate. Cork is sustainably harvested from the bark every 9 to 12 years without damaging the trees – a traditional craft carried out by skilled workers known as corcheros.
Andalucía is one of Europe’s most important cork-producing regions. The material is used in everything from wine stoppers and flooring to eco-friendly insulation. These “alcornocales” (cork oak forests) also play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Nearby, the Los Alcornocales Natural Park is one of the largest and most pristine cork oak forests in Europe – a natural treasure well worth appreciating as you ride by.
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