Riópar – Nature, History and Holiday Apartments

Riópar is located less than 10 km from the Nacimiento del Río Mundo, also known as Los Chorros, which is situated in the Parque Natural de los Calares del Mundo y de la Sima. At the Nacimiento del Río Mundo, the water plunges 86 metres from the Cueva de los Chorros and then flows through clear pools and small cascades known as Las Calderetas.

Culture

In Riopar Viejo, the Iglesia parroquial del Espíritu Santo dates from the 15th century and is considered the oldest church in the Sierra del Segura. The remains of a medieval castle of Islamic origin have also been preserved there. Narrow streets and restored stone houses in traditional architecture preserve the historic character of this place.

The Museo del Esparto de Riópar presents a varied exhibition of objects made from esparto grass and other materials, as well as equipment and tools formerly used in rural life. Workshops on esparto craftsmanship are held there occasionally.

The Reales Fábricas de San Juan de Alcaraz were finally closed in 1996 after more than 200 years of operation; part of their facilities was subsequently converted into a museum of industrial archaeology. Their history dates back to 1773. The factories were the first of their kind in Spain and the second in the world. The Caz de las Fábricas is a long aqueduct accessible via a path suitable for everyone, less than 1 km from the centre of Riópar.

Nature

The Balsa del Gollizo is a small artificial reservoir of historical and heritage value and is suitable for observing birds and amphibians. The area around Riópar is suitable for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, horse riding, caving and birdwatching.

In the Parque Natural de los Calares del Mundo y de la Sima, environmental education and information workshops, an exhibition and guided routes take place. Different trail lengths, activity types and themes help you compare the options for your own planning.

Things to do

The Sendero de las Fábricas de Riópar is of low difficulty and is suitable for family outings or cycling tours. From the Puerto del Arenal car park, a signposted 4-km route leads through large pine forests, past numerous springs and streams, to Los Chorros.

The Mirador Starlight in Riopar Viejo has an information board and a planisphere calendar for identifying constellations and other celestial objects. The combination of cultural sites, nature observation, guided routes and trails of varying difficulty offers several focal points for planning your day.

When comparing holiday apartments in Riópar, you can compare travel dates, room category and cancellation policies on the offer pages.

Getting there

Riópar can be reached via the N-322 and the CM-412.

More destinations to discover: Casas-Ibáñez, El Gollizo, Socovos, Casas De Abajo, Higueruela, San Pedro, El Morrión

For the higher-level travel overview: Albacete.