The best MTB trails around Embalse de El Vicario

The Iron Bridge over the Guadiana River, also known as the Austrias Bridge, is a significant engineering work in the history of Ciudad Real and the region of Castilla-La Mancha. It was built to be part of the railway line that connected Ciudad Real with Badajoz, being an important route for transport and communication in the first half of the 20th century. The construction of the bridge began in 1921 and was completed in 1927. Its design and construction were carried out by the company Material para Ferrocarriles y Construcciones S.A., which used advanced techniques for the time. The bridge is made up of an iron metal structure, supported by masonry pillars, which gives it its characteristic name. During the Spanish Civil War, the bridge played a strategic role and was damaged due to its importance for the movement of troops and supplies. It was later repaired and continued in use until the railway line was decommissioned in the 1960s. Today, the Iron Bridge is a protected monument and a testament to the region's industrial heritage. It is a popular place for walks and hiking trails, allowing visitors to appreciate both its historical value and the natural views of the Guadiana River and its surroundings.

The Puerta de Santa María, also known as the Puerta de Antiguo Convento de las Dominicas de Altagracia, is located in Ciudad Real. This gate is located in the place where one of the eight gates of the old wall of Villa Real used to be. Although the convent to which it belonged was demolished in the 70s of the last century, the door still remains as a historical testimony. I hope you have an interesting visit! 🏰

This pass was built to connect the urban area of Miguelturra with the urbanization of Malas Tardes and, in turn, with the eastern part of Ciudad Real through the bridge over the highway. It is suitable for pedestrians and bicycles.

It is a place full of history, with a special charm. Formerly this bridge was part of the railway line that connected Ciudad Real with Madrid. At the beginning of the nineties it stopped being used as it did not meet the conditions to support the new AVE route between the capital and Seville. After its conditioning for use as a greenway, it is an attractive pedestrian crossing point to cross the Guadiana River at the height of the Vicario reservoir, next to the Miguelturreña district of Peralvillo, especially when we can see water flowing through its channel, something uncommon in dry season. Ideal for taking photos and admiring its imposing structure.

Beautiful seen from below and with water as before.

Today with many people taking photos due to the recent rains and how crowded it is. The arch of the old Roman bridge is covered by water, it is wonderful to see it like this.

Leaving Ciudad Real, take a left turn to go up to the Atalaya forest park.

There are hardly any remains of what was the castle and the church, but a beautiful landscape to get close to. Visit the Village on the way.