El Rompido
There are a great deal of opportunities to go hiking and cycling in the El Rompido beauty spot, as there are approved routes for all tastes and characteristics.
One of the better known activities is ‘Nordic Walking’, a form of hiking with poles similar to those used in skiing.
There are also segway routes, a means of transport on two wheels which enables you to enjoy the hiking routes without physical exertion.
This natural beauty spot stretches along the mouth of the River Piedras, where the material from the fluvial channel have given rise to a unique landscape, comprised of a system of marshes and a particular coastline of sand dunes and pine groves in virgin surroundings.
The 10 km, low difficulty route can be covered on segway, bicycle or on foot over paths equipped for this with wooden walkways and bridges over the marshlands.
Paradisiacal surroundings with paths adapted with wooden walkways and bridges over the marshlands so you can enjoy a pleasant walk. A 10 km, low difficulty route to be enjoyed on foot or bicycle .
This is a juniper wood located between sand dunes which is crossed by five wooden walkways which lead to Los Enebrales beach, also known as La Mata Negra. This 5 km low difficulty route can be covered by bicycle or on foot.
The estuary which forms the mouth of the river Piedras just before it spills out into the immense ocean provides unbeatable conditions for canoeing and kayaking.
Other walking and bicycle trails:
This old convent dates back to the 18th century with a transitional style between Baroque and Neoclassicism. It was built from stones and is the largest building in the town. Its outline, particularly that of its bell tower, dominates the town’s skyline from the different access routes, and is one of the most important identifying features of Cartaya.
This fortress located to the west of the town was built on a hill by the illustrious family of the same name in the 15th century. Outstanding features are the 8 metre high walls which bring to mind corsairs and pirates. Its mission was to watch over the land and protect its inhabitants.
Lovers of speed can enjoy driving a kart at Cartaya kart track. This circuit is both for amateur and for competitions to be held and there are circuits for children.
Five kilometres away is Aquopolis, an alternative to the beach which offers water-based fun for the whole family. Water rides such as slides, whirlpools and the wave machine in the swimming pool will put a smile on everyone’s face.
The marshlands are located between the river Tinto and the Odiel, and is one of the largest and best preserved marsh landscapes in Spain. Its great birdlife is of note, the population of flamencos being particularly important.
Ayamonte has a wonderful artistic and cultural heritage and is located at the mouth of the Guadiana right on the border with Portugal.
This route is formed by in the municipalities of Huelva that participated in some way in the discovery of America. The departure point is at Moguer and the route goes through Palos de la Frontera, La Rábida Monastry and Carabelas Quay, where you can see replicas of the ships Pinta, the Niña and the Santa María and the House -Museum of the Pinzón Brothers.
This town has a walled enclosure almost 3 km long, with five gates and a total of 46 towers which give it a medieval halo. On one side is the Alcázar (fortress) de los Guzmanes, erected in the 15th century on former Roman, Visigoth and Arabic buildings.
This Theme Park dedicated to river Tinto mining is nestled in the spectacular valley of the same name, known for its orange-coloured water. This unique spot can be crossed in the oldest working steam train in Spain.
Here a must see is the Mining Museum, which has an impressive reproduction of a Roman mine.
You can cross these magnificent protected natural surroundings on bike, foot or horseback using the paths which depart from the nearby town of Ayamonte.
Of note is the route to Isla Cristina along the Vía Verde (Green Route). It is a 12 km vía verde which travels along the old train route which connected Huelva and Ayamonte. As well as the beauty of the marshlands and the rich fauna which inhabits it, you can see the remains of one of the most important tide mills in the area, that of El Pintado.
This museum recreates the Doñana marine ecosystem and therefore is of special interest to nature lovers as it reproduces the least known part of Doñana Park.
From El Rompido you are perfectly situated to explore other regions – and even other countries – which is a real benefit of Huelva holidays! You can reach the southern coast of Portugal in about 45 minutes by car, which will allow you to take advantage of the many superb beaches along this vast stretch of coastline.
Some of the towns in this region that are well worth a visit:
The town of Pera is a must-visit in the summer due to its long festival Fiesa, where you can admire fascinating exhibitions of sand sculptures unlike anything you have ever seen.
The village of Rocío in Almonte, Huelva is where the El Rocío Pilgrimage is celebrated, one of the most famous religious events in Spain which brings together thousands of people each May. About an hour away by car, El Rocío is a small and pretty village with a spectacular church. A well-timed visit during May can offer a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s strong religious ties.
As Andalucía’s capital and biggest city, Seville is most definitely worth a visit. With plenty of narrow, winding, medieval streets to wander down, beautiful plazas, brilliant tapas bars and fantastic nightlife, you certainly won’t get bored here. As the birthplace of flamenco dancing and bullfighting which are so central to Andalucian tradition, Seville is the place where the spirit of Andalucía is best captured.
The Doñana National Park is also nearby, and with its diverse landscape of salt marshes, pine woods, sand dunes and tidal creeks, it has become a very significant breeding ground for thousands of European and African birds. You can explore the park on foot, horseback, camel, 4×4 or Segway – keep an eye out for the unique species that live in the park, many of which are in serious danger of extinction, such as the Spanish Imperial Eagle and the Iberian Lynx.
Jerez de la Frontera is famous for both its flamenco and horses, and if you are visiting Jerez there are many fascinating horse shows at the Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art that are worth a watch. Jerez also holds worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production, and the city’s famous wine and brandy cellars are just waiting to be explored; there are daily tours which are always popular with tourists.
