Embark on a two-hour journey through the heart of the Sierra de Cazorla and discover the hidden gem of Tranco Village and the surroundings. This captivating trail winds its way through breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and along the serene shores of the majestic Tranco Reservoir. As you traverse this scenic route, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views, crystal-clear waters, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
This hiking route starts in the abandoned village of Tranco, which once housed the workers who built the dam. To begin the hike, follow the side of the road from the abandoned village towards the reservoir until you find a path closed to vehicles. After walking along the reservoir's shoreline, you will reach the bridge over the Hornos River on a linear path nearly 10 kilometres long.
Along the route, you will encounter ruins of old farmhouses that were not submerged by the reservoir and, eventually, a viewpoint offering a full view of the reservoir.
The trail is easy and accessible, taking only about 2.5 hours, or 5 hours for a round trip.
The origin of this route dates back to the construction of the reservoir itself. The path was used to mark the height the water would reach and runs along the side of the reservoir, passing over the Hornos River.
Choosing the Tranco hiking trail offers numerous rewards. Here are some compelling reasons to embark on this adventure:
This reservoir, located in the province of Jaen, is situated in the Sierra de Cazorla in the Upper Guadalquivir. Construction began in 1929 and took 16 years to complete. The village, known as Poblado del Tranco, was built nearby to house the workers involved in the project.
During the construction of this reservoir, the village of Bujaraiza was expropriated, and some of its buildings can still be seen when the water level is low.
The reservoir is an ideal spot for various water sports during the summer, such as pedal boating and fishing. Additionally, the area offers excellent dining options where you can enjoy local dishes with beautiful views of the reservoir.
When visiting the reservoir, we recommend also exploring the dam, the hydroelectric power station, and other attractions such as the wildlife park, the botanical garden, and the Borosa River interpretation centre.