The third stage of the Camino Natural del Guadiana follows the Guadiana River and the Gran Prior Canal towards La Alameda De Cervera, ending at the town's rest area. The fourth stage begins there, crosses the Guadiana from La Alameda De Cervera and then continues along its right bank. The rest area therefore marks the transition from a stage that leads towards the town to a section that crosses the river from there. The right bank is the side on the right when facing downstream.
The rest area has shaded areas, benches and waste bins. Before planning a stay, check whether the facilities are usable on site.
Landscape along the Camino Natural del Guadiana
The fourth stage passes through vineyards, melon fields, olive groves and cereal fields; the landscape around La Alameda De Cervera is characterised by ancient holm oaks. This highlights two distinct aspects of the landscape: the cultivated land along the stage and the holm oaks that characterise the town. If you would like to plan your route around landscape features, the fourth stage includes the fields and groves mentioned above.
Bridge, church and rural architecture
At the Puente del Gran Prior, a spiral staircase with radial steps descends to the bottom of the canal. The church of San Lorenzo, named after the patron saint of La Alameda De Cervera, stands near the bridge. These are two distinct structures: the bridge, with its connection to the canal, and the church, whose name refers to the town's patron saint.
Another type of architecture found in this part of La Mancha is the Bombos manchegos, traditional rural shelters. They provided protection for shepherds and agricultural workers during their farming and pastoral work. Their ground plan is circular or elliptical; these dry-stone structures have a corbelled dome made of stone slabs. The function and form of the Bombos go hand in hand: they are shelters for everyday work, whose distinctive shape is defined by the stone corbelled dome.
Festive traditions and practical information
Local festivities include a painting competition and a Caldereta tasting. Blessings of animals at the church of San Lorenzo are also part of local tradition; a bonfire is lit at the entrance to La Alameda De Cervera. If you are planning to travel specifically for a celebration, check the dates in advance.
Buses run daily from La Alameda De Cervera to Alcázar de San Juan and Tomelloso. Check the timetable before travelling if you plan to use these connections.
Discover more destinations: Arenales De San Gregorio, Puerto Lápice, Fernán Caballero, El Robledo, Fuente El Fresno, Santa Quiteria, Solana Del Pino, Miguelturra
For the main travel overview: Ciudad Real.
