Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Calar del Río Mundo y de la Sima Natural Park, located in the provinces of Albacete and parts of Ciudad Real in Castilla-La Mancha, covers a rugged mountainous region dominated by the Sierra del Segura range and the extensive Calar del Mundo plateau. The park's geology is characterized by extensive karstic formations, deep caves, and notable escarpments, with the Río Mundo waterfall being among the most famous natural landmarks in Spain. This waterfall spectacularly cascades from a high cliff in springtime due to seasonal thawing of snow in the mountains.
The park supports a rich mosaic of ecosystems: Mediterranean forests of holm oak and pine coexist with alpine meadows and shrubs at higher elevations, creating habitats for a wide array of fauna including griffon vultures, Spanish ibex, otters, and numerous bird species. The flora includes endemic and rare species adapted to the limestone terrain and Mediterranean climate.
Historically, the area has traditional rural villages and has long been used for pastoralism, which continues to shape the landscape. Visitors are drawn by the extensive network of hiking trails that traverse limestone plateaus, steep gorges, and riverbanks, offering scenic views and opportunities for bird watching and photography.
Landmarks such as the Cueva de los Chorros cave and the Río Mundo spring provide outstanding natural attractions. The park also features accessible routes to the summit of Pico del Calar del Mundo, the highest point, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas. The region’s relatively low visitor numbers allow for a tranquil nature experience. Overall, the park is a vital conservation area for preserving unique geological formations, valuable biodiversity, and traditional rural landscapes.
