Polopos: Thousand-year-old Chestnut Tree

This unique hike takes us through the Sierra de la Contraviesa, around Polopos in the lower Alpujarra. The area is particularly known for its extensive cork oak forest, planted more than 150 years ago and now forming a remarkable natural landscape with a great diversity of plants and wildlife. Along the way, we pass the Antigua Venta del Pilar and continue through the characteristic mountain landscape of the Contraviesa.

One of the highlights is Cerro de la Salchicha, reaching an altitude of around 1,545 metres. From the higher sections, we enjoy beautiful views across the Contraviesa and towards the Mediterranean Sea. On clear days, the views can even stretch as far as the coast and mountains of North Africa, giving this high-altitude route a truly special perspective.

We then continue through the Alcornocal del Haza del Lino, one of the most remarkable cork oak forests in eastern Andalusia. The forest grows at a surprisingly high altitude and forms a green oasis within a landscape that is generally much drier. The combination of mountains, panoramic views and this centuries-old cork oak forest makes this a fascinating hike through the Sierra de la Contraviesa.