Algar: Hiking Trails, History and Local Traditions

Hiking trails between Algar and Guadalcacín

The Ruta del Lentisco is a circular hiking trail that begins and ends at the Plaza de Toros Centenario in Algar. It is 9.82 kilometres long. Wooden posts mark the route: at junctions, they serve as signposts, while along the trail they serve as reassurance markers. The Ruta Vereda del Tempul is an easily accessible, approximately 3-kilometre-long linear route that ends on the shore of the Embalse de Guadalcacín II. From there, it offers views of the Sierra de las Cabras and the Sierra de la Sal. The Camino de Chavarría connects the town centre of Algar with the Embalse de Guadalcacín. It passes through pastureland, grazed dehesa areas with wild olive trees, and wooded areas with wild olive trees, holm oaks and Pyrenean oaks. In connection with the Camino de Chavarría, the Parque Natural Los Alcornocales, a ZEPA, an LIC and the Reserva de la Biosfera Intercontinental del Mediterráneo Andalucía-Marruecos are cited as protected areas. A circular hiking trail returns to its starting point, while a linear route ends at a different endpoint. The distance given in kilometres helps with planning stages; markers at junctions and along the trail serve different navigational functions. The transitions between pastureland, dehesa areas and woodland offer different ways of observing the landscape.

Leisure at the reservoir and motorsport

In connection with Algar, hiking in the Tajo del Águila and canoeing, sailing and spending time on a beach at the Embalse de Guadalcacín II are mentioned as leisure activities. The Subida a Algar is a hill-climb motorsport event held in Algar, in the province of Cádiz, Spain, and forms part of the Campeonato de Andalucía de Montaña. It runs along mountain roads near Algar with tight bends and steep climbs. The Subida a Algar takes place annually, usually between March and April; the exact date varies from year to year.

Founding history and historical reenactment

Algar was founded on 13 October 1773, with the approval of Charles III, as Villa de Santa María de Guadalupe de Algar. The Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María de Guadalupe was built in 1762–1763. The founding date and the construction period mark two historical points in the town’s history. The historical reenactment of Algar’s founding includes a theatrical walking tour through the town, beginning at the town hall square.

Fair and dish from Algar

After being held for four years, the Feria “La Matanza del Cerdo” in Algar has become a local tradition. During the fair, the local population gathers to watch the slaughter and preparation of the pig. The dish Abajao Espárragos is prepared with green asparagus, garlic, onions, olive oil, 500 grams of tomatoes, either fresh or chopped canned tomatoes, salt, water and stale bread.

More destinations: Medina Sidonia, Urbanización Novo Santi Petri, Paterna De Rivera, Grazalema, La Zarzuela, Rota, La Barca De La Florida, Puerto Serrano.

To the main travel overview: Cadiz.