Family Adventure in Cazorla Natural Park

Summiting Pico Gilillo: A Day of Awe in Cazorla Natural Park

Today was a day of conquering peaks and soaking in panoramic vistas. The plan was ambitious: scale Pico Gilillo, the highest peak in Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park, and immerse ourselves in the vastness of Cazorla Natural Park. With Lena and Kai by my side, I knew we were up for an adventure, one that would test our mettle and reward us with unforgettable views.


Experience the natural wonders of Pico Gilillo, a premier hiking destination in Jaén, Spain, perfect for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bar-Bacoa La Raja in La Iruela. It was a charming spot, and I made sure to try the authentic Andalusian barbecue, which was recommended. The flavors were incredible, and it was the perfect fuel for the day ahead. Kai was especially excited, having devoured a plate of *migas*, a traditional dish I remember trying for the first time when Lena brought me to meet her family in Germany. I felt a familiar warmth thinking about it.


Experience authentic Andalusian barbecue at Bar-Bacoa La Raja in La Iruela – where flavor meets tradition in every bite.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off towards Pico Gilillo. The drive itself was a treat, winding through the foothills of the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park. The landscape transformed with every turn, from lush pine forests to rocky slopes, each view more breathtaking than the last. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for being able to share this experience with my *ohana*.

The journey is the destination, and today, the journey was a climb to remember.

The hike started off gently enough, following a well-marked trail that gradually ascended through the forest. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth. Kai, with his boundless energy, bounded ahead, eager to reach the summit. Lena and I took a more leisurely pace, stopping to admire the wildflowers that dotted the landscape and listen to the songs of the birds flitting through the trees. I even tried to identify some of the local flora using my guidebook, feeling a little like a cultural anthropologist in my element.

As we climbed higher, the trail became steeper and more challenging. The rocky terrain tested our footing, and the sun beat down relentlessly. I was glad I’d packed plenty of water and sunscreen, though I did regret forgetting the insect repellent. Note to self: always double-check the essentials! Despite the challenges, we pressed on, motivated by the promise of the view from the top. I kept reminding myself of the Hawaiian saying, “*ʻAʻohe hana nui ke alu ʻia*” – no task is too big when done together.

Reaching the summit of Pico Gilillo was an exhilarating experience. The 360-degree views were simply stunning. We could see for miles in every direction, the rolling hills of the Sierra de Cazorla stretching out like a green and brown tapestry. To the south, we spotted the town of Cazorla nestled in the valley below. I pointed out the route we would be taking tomorrow to explore the Cueva de la Graja and the Ruinas de la Iglesia de Santa María de Gracia. The sense of accomplishment was palpable, a shared victory that strengthened our bond as a family.

After soaking in the views and snapping countless photos, we began our descent. The way down was just as challenging as the way up, but we took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain. By the time we reached the bottom, our legs were tired, but our hearts were full. We had conquered Pico Gilillo, and the memories of the experience would stay with us forever.

With the hike behind us, we decided to explore more of the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park. We drove along the scenic roads, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the landscape. The park is truly a natural paradise, a haven for wildlife and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. I learned that the park is the largest protected area in Spain and the second largest in Europe, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1983. It is home to diverse species such as the Spanish Ibex, red deer, wild boar, and even the recently reintroduced Bearded Vulture. I made a mental note to bring my binoculars next time for some serious bird watching.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurante Cazorla for dinner. We enjoyed authentic Spanish cuisine, savoring each bite as we recounted the day’s adventures. The *venison* was especially delicious, a testament to the local game dishes that Cazorla is known for. Kai even tried some *rin ran*, a cold dish of mashed potato and dried red pepper with olives and cod, a local specialty.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Restaurante Cazorla, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in the heart of Madrid.

After dinner, we stopped by Cafe Bar La Garita for a nightcap. The atmosphere was lively, and we enjoyed some local tapas while sipping on refreshing drinks. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day, a day filled with adventure, natural beauty, and quality time with my family.


Experience the authentic flavors of Andalusia at Café Bar La Garita in La Iruela, where delightful tapas and stunning views await.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Cueva de la Graja and the Ruinas de la Iglesia de Santa María de Gracia, delving deeper into the history and natural wonders of this remarkable region. I’m also looking forward to visiting La Despensa Del Parque Natural, a local shop where we can pick up some souvenirs and sample more of the region’s culinary delights. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in Cazorla Natural Park.

This trip to Cazorla Natural Park is a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and cherishing the bonds of family. As we continue our journey, I hope to share more of these experiences with you, inspiring you to explore the world and create your own unforgettable memories.

Until tomorrow, *aloha*!

P.S. I must add, I was so impressed by the range of activities available in Cazorla Natural Park. I read about hiking, canyoning, fishing, horse riding, and mountain biking, and I'm already planning a return trip to try some of these out. I also came across information about the Blues Cazorla festival, a long-running blues and rock event that takes place in July. Maybe we'll time our next visit to coincide with the festival for some musical fun! I'm also eager to explore more of the local gastronomy, especially the *andrajos* stew that I heard so much about. The possibilities seem endless, and I'm excited to discover more of what this region has to offer.