If you want to see the world as it really is viewpoint at the Villuercas Ibores Jara Geopark, You have to go up to the Cabañas Castle.

Arab origins, Christian reforms, centuries of vigilance… And yet, there it stands, steadfast. Climbing its steep path is the price you pay for the Appalachian landscape The most brutal you’ve ever seen, that’s for sure: right before your eyes you’ll see the impressive Santa Lucía syncline, with the gorge of the same name running through the valley until it flows into the River Almonte, on your left; and Buitrera Rock On your right, a massive rocky outcrop that is home to a large number of protected birds, such as griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures and black storks.

And beyond that, towering over the horizon, the Villuercas Peak, the highest point in the geopark at 1,601 metres. Everything on a grand scale.