Family Adventure in Cazorla Natural Park

Whispers of the Forest

Today was a day straight out of a fairytale, a day where the natural beauty of Cazorla Natural Park truly captivated Lena, Kai, and me. We ventured into an enchanted forest, soaked in panoramic vistas, and savored the local cuisine. It was a blend of adventure and relaxation, the kind of day that etches itself into your memory. Days like this remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my ‘ohana.

Our day began, as most do, with a hearty breakfast. We headed to Mesón Don Chema, a local favorite known for its traditional Spanish fare. I opted for the tostada con tomate y jamón, a simple yet satisfying dish of toasted bread with tomato and Iberian ham. Lena chose the migas, a breadcrumb-based dish, while Kai went for the classic churros with chocolate. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The warmth of the staff and the delicious food made it feel like we were starting the day with family.

With our bellies full, we set off for our first destination: the Bosque Encantado de Higueras, or the Enchanted Forest of Higueras. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape unfolding before us, showcasing the raw beauty of Cazorla. As we approached, I could feel a sense of anticipation building within us all. I had read about this place, but nothing could have prepared me for its ethereal charm.

The Bosque Encantado de Higueras is aptly named. It felt like stepping into a different world. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. Ancient fig trees, their gnarled roots reaching out like grasping hands, stood guard over the landscape. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers. I could almost hear the whispers of the forest spirits, a feeling that resonated with my own Hawaiian connection to nature. Lena was immediately captivated, her camera clicking away as she tried to capture the magic of the place. Kai, usually glued to his phone, was equally mesmerized, his eyes wide with wonder.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Bosque Encantado de Higueras, a national forest in Jaén, Spain, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

We wandered along the winding trails, each turn revealing a new vista of natural beauty. The Rio Peralta meandered through the forest, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding greenery. We crossed over small wooden bridges, the sound of the water rushing beneath our feet adding to the symphony of the forest. Kai, ever the adventurous one, skipped ahead, eager to explore every nook and cranny. Lena and I followed at a more leisurely pace, savoring the tranquility of the surroundings.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

As we walked deeper into the forest, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving these natural spaces. In my work as a cultural consultant, I often emphasize the need to respect and protect the environment. Places like the Bosque Encantado de Higueras are not just beautiful landscapes; they are vital ecosystems that support a diverse range of flora and fauna. They are also places of spiritual significance, where we can connect with nature and find solace from the stresses of modern life.

After spending a few hours exploring the enchanted forest, we decided to head to our next destination: the Mirador de Riogazas. This viewpoint promised panoramic views of Cazorla and the surrounding countryside, and we were eager to see the landscape from a different perspective. The drive to the mirador was uphill, the road winding its way through the mountains. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly spectacular. We stopped several times along the way to take photos, each vantage point offering a unique perspective on the landscape.

When we finally reached the Mirador de Riogazas, we were not disappointed. The view was simply breathtaking. From our vantage point, we could see the town of Cazorla nestled in the valley below, its white-washed buildings gleaming in the afternoon sun. The surrounding mountains rose majestically, their peaks shrouded in a hazy mist. The landscape stretched out before us, a tapestry of green forests, rugged hills, and fertile plains. It was a scene of such immense beauty that it took my breath away. Lena and Kai were equally impressed, their faces lit up with awe.


Discover the breathtaking vistas of Sierra de Cazorla at Mirador de Riogazas, a natural observation deck perfect for unforgettable moments in nature.

We spent a long time at the Mirador de Riogazas, simply soaking in the view. I pointed out some of the landmarks to Lena and Kai, sharing stories about the history and culture of the region. I explained how the Cazorla Natural Park is the largest protected area in Spain, a haven for biodiversity and a testament to the country's commitment to conservation. I also talked about the importance of sustainable tourism, emphasizing the need to protect these natural spaces for future generations.

As the afternoon wore on, we began to feel hungry again. We decided to head back to Cazorla for lunch, eager to sample some more of the local cuisine. We chose Restaurante La Bodeguita del Rondador, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Andalusian dishes. The restaurant was located in a picturesque setting, with views of the surrounding mountains. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a relaxed ambiance.


Experience authentic Andalusian flavors at Restaurante La Bodeguita del Rondador in Cazorla – where grilling meets tradition.

We ordered a selection of tapas to share, including patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and calamares fritos. Each dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the quality of the local ingredients. Lena particularly enjoyed the gazpacho, a cold soup made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Kai devoured the calamares fritos, declaring them the best he had ever tasted. I savored the patatas bravas, the spicy sauce adding a kick to the crispy potatoes. It was a delicious and satisfying meal, the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring.

After lunch, we decided to take a stroll through the town of Cazorla. We wandered along the narrow streets, admiring the white-washed buildings and the colorful flower pots that adorned the walls. We visited the Plaza de Santa María, a historic square that is home to the ruins of a beautiful church. We also stopped by the Castillo de la Yedra, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town.

As the sun began to set, we decided to find a place to relax and enjoy a drink. We stumbled upon Rincon Serrano, a cozy bar located in the heart of Cazorla. The bar had a rustic charm, with wooden beams, stone walls, and a welcoming atmosphere. We ordered a round of drinks – a glass of local wine for Lena, a refreshing lemonade for Kai, and a cold beer for me. We sat outside, watching the world go by, as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain at Rincon Serrano, Cazorla's beloved tapas bar, where every dish tells a story.

Rincon Serrano turned out to be the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day. The tapas were delicious, especially the bacalao (cod) and the bombas (potato croquettes). It was a great way to experience the local flavors and mingle with the friendly locals. Kai even struck up a conversation with a group of Spanish teenagers, practicing his Spanish and learning about their culture. It was moments like these that made our trip so special, the unexpected connections and the shared experiences that created lasting memories.

For dinner, we decided to try Sercotel Ciudad de Cazorla, drawn in by the promise of local and international dishes. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and we were seated at a table with a view of the town. The meal was a delightful end to a perfect day, as we savored the flavors of Cazorla one last time before heading back to our accommodation. As we walked back, the stars were beginning to appear, and the cool night air was a welcome contrast to the warmth of the day.


Experience comfort and nature at Sercotel Ciudad de Cazorla - your perfect retreat in stunning Jaén.

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life: spending time with family, exploring new places, and savoring the beauty of nature. As I reflect on our adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena and Kai. These are the moments that matter, the memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Cazorla Natural Park. We plan to visit Charco De La Pringue and Campos de Hernán Perea, hoping to soak in as much of this beautiful region as possible before we head back to Berlin. I want to make the most of our last day together in this stunning corner of Spain. I am eager to see what new wonders tomorrow will bring.