La Almarcha offers several reasons to stay: the saltwater karst lagoon of Pozo Airón, a church in the local Renaissance style, and rural trails. There are also the San Bartolomé tradition and local music. When looking for accommodation, it can help to decide first what matters most to you: scenery, culture or outdoor activities.

Pozo Airón and the surrounding trails

The Laguna de Pozo Airón lies at an altitude of 835 metres above sea level and is a saltwater karst lagoon. It is considered geological heritage of hydrogeological, historical and cultural interest. Around La Almarcha, rural trails offer walks through native flora, including thyme, rosemary and lavender. Common bird species can also be spotted there. The lagoon and trails therefore offer different perspectives on nature: a geological feature on the one hand, and plant life and birdwatching on the other. The distinction is clear: the lagoon is about karst formations and geology, while the trails focus on plant life and birdwatching.

Architecture, festival and music

The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción dates from the 16th and 17th centuries and is considered a notable example of the local Renaissance style. It offers a cultural focus distinct from the natural features around Pozo Airón. According to tradition, twelve female dancers performed in two rows of six around the saint during the San Bartolomé celebration; afterwards, each dancer recited her “dicho.” The alternation of dancing and recitation gives this tradition a clear sequence. The festival in honour of San Bartolomé takes place in late August. If you would like to plan your trip around the celebrations, check the dates in advance. Music is also part of the local culture: Isaac Mena Guijarro is considered a leading author of La Almarcha’s traditional popular songs. “Las esparragueras” is currently regarded unofficially as the local anthem. Renaissance architecture, festival customs and music offer different ways to discover the town’s culture.

Route and getting there

For those planning a longer excursion, the Camino Natural del río Rus offers a different scale from the walks around town: the route is 63 kilometres long and runs from La Almarcha to El Provencio. It is mostly flat and can be travelled on foot or by bicycle. Connecting two endpoints makes the Camino a distinct route option alongside the trails around town. The hottest months should be avoided for this route because of vegetation conditions.

There is an on-demand bus service between La Almarcha and Cuenca on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. To take the service, you need to contact the taxi drivers the day before. If you plan to use it, check the schedule before travelling and allow for the required contact the previous day, as schedules may change.

Discover more destinations: Casas De Fernando Alonso, Mota Del Cuervo, Villar Del Maestre, Iniesta, El Arrabal, Palomera, Villares Del Saz, Arcas

For the broader travel overview: Cuenca.