4.3
(16)
146
hikers
13
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Reserva Natural De La Laguna De Salicor are set within a distinctive saline wetland in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. The region is characterized by its endorheic, saline, and seasonal lagoon, which can reveal extensive salt crusts during dry periods. The landscape features dynamic waterways that form islets and reflections, surrounded by plains. Unique flora adapted to high salinity, such as salicornia, thrives here, alongside diverse birdlife, including migratory species and raptors.
Last updated: August 5, 2026
2.5
(2)
24
hikers
6.66km
01:45
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
5.63km
01:31
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
5.20km
01:21
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
11.4km
02:59
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The windmills of San Antón Hill are one of the great symbols of Alcázar de San Juan (Ciudad Real) and an essential part of the Don Quixote Route. They emerged in La Mancha in the mid-16th century as an alternative to the scarcity of watermills, due to the climate and the terrain. San Antón Hill is a Paleozoic elevation located southeast of the town, about 2.5 km from the town center, with spectacular views of the La Mancha plains.
8
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Return to the town of Campo de Criptana
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These iconic mills are symbols of Campo de Criptana and all of Castilla-La Mancha. Its blades preside over the life of the town of La Mancha from above. The mills are of the “tower” type, built in masonry and whitewashed with lime. They have a circular plan pierced with small windows, which served as a guide for the orientation of the wind. This indicated where to turn the conical cover so that its blades could take advantage of the wind as desired. Each mill has three floors: the upper one with the grinding stones and the lower ones for storage and packaging. The oldest mills, such as the Sardinero, Burleta and Infante, have been standing since the 16th century and preserve their original mechanism. There are also more modern mills, such as the Inca Garcilaso, the Cariari, the Vicente Huidobro, the Pilón, the Lagarto, the Culebro and the Poyatos, which date back to 1900. Currently, some of these mills can be visited, such as the Molino Infante, the Burleta, the Culebro (which houses the Sara Montiel Museum), the Quimera (which houses the town's Holy Week Museum) and the Poyatos Mill (current tourist information point). The others are closed to the public. I hope you enjoy exploring these iconic windmills! 😊
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Also beautiful to look at at dusk
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The mills are located on a hill. You imagine they are the giants that Don Quixote fought against. Site of cultural interest.
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These incredibly beautiful and historical monuments of our past are located a few kilometers from Alcázar de San Juan on the hill of San Antón. The Giants as described by Miguel de Cervantes.
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The full-length sculpture, made by Juan Cuevas, has all kinds of opinions, but it is true that the work has not managed to model the enormous beauty of the face of "Saritísima".
23
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Famous Spanish film actress and singer born in Campo de Criptana. From this town in La Mancha he managed to reach the Hollywood of the 50s and 60s and worked and dealt with the best known in the world of cinema and intellectuals. Even now she is still considered the most beautiful face of Spanish cinema.
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There are 7 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations in Reserva Natural De La Laguna De Salicor, offering a range of experiences for different fitness levels.
The trails primarily showcase the unique saline wetlands of the Reserva Natural De La Laguna De Salicor. You'll encounter distinctive salt crusts, especially during drier periods, and observe flora adapted to high salinity, such as salicornia. The dynamic waterways create striking reflections and a singular natural environment.
Yes, 4 of the bus station trails are rated as easy. For example, the Hiking loop from Campo de Criptana is an easy 6.66 km route, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another accessible option is the Campo de Criptana Windmills loop from Campo de Criptana, which is 5.59 km and also rated easy.
For a more extended adventure, consider the Torreón del Gran Prior – Alcázar de San Juan loop from Alcázar de San Juan. This moderate 12.41 km route offers a longer exploration of the area.
Many trails offer views of the unique saline lagoon and its specialized vegetation. Several routes also provide opportunities to see the famous windmills of Campo de Criptana, such as the Pósito (Campo de Criptana) – Ascent to the windmills loop from Campo de Criptana, which combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Many of the easy routes, particularly those under 7 km with minimal elevation gain, are suitable for families. The relatively flat terrain and well-defined paths make them accessible for children. The unique landscapes and birdwatching opportunities can also be engaging for younger hikers.
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in the Reserva Natural De La Laguna De Salicor, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect the sensitive ecosystem and local wildlife, especially during bird nesting seasons. Always check local regulations for specific routes.
Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable hiking temperatures and observing migratory birds. Summer offers the spectacular sight of the salt crusts as the water evaporates, but temperatures can be very high. Winter can be good for birdwatching, especially common cranes, but be prepared for cooler weather.
Yes, most of the bus station accessible trails in this guide are circular routes, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point. Examples include the Hiking loop from Campo de Criptana and the Torreón del Gran Prior – Alcázar de San Juan loop from Alcázar de San Juan.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique, almost otherworldly landscapes of the saline lagoon, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the combination of nature with cultural landmarks like the windmills of Campo de Criptana.
The Reserva Natural De La Laguna De Salicor is a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA), making it excellent for birdwatching. You might spot migratory birds like common cranes, as well as species such as little bustards, pin-tailed sandgrouse, stone-curlews, and various raptors like peregrine falcons and Montagu's harriers.

