マンチャ周辺のアトラクション＆必見スポット - トップ20

Hill of the Mills (also known as Sierra de los Molinos) in Campo de Criptana. In 1575, the Topographical Reports of Philip II already mentioned “many mills” in the area; in 1752, the Cadastre of the Marquis of Ensenada recorded 34 mills in Campo de Criptana. Currently, 10 mills are preserved, three of them (Infante, Burleta, and Sardinero) dating from the 16th century with their original machinery. The complex has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest and designated a “Historic Site.”

The King's Lagoon, one of the most emblematic lagoons in the Ruidera Lakes Natural Park: It is located within the municipality of Ruidera (Ciudad Real), at the main entrance to the natural park. It is one of the first lagoons you see when traveling through the park by road, very close to the town of Ruidera. It stands out for the turquoise color of its waters, which in some places are reminiscent of the Caribbean. It is photogenic and easily accessible, ideal for those looking for a place to relax or take a swim. The bottom is clearly visible thanks to the water's transparency.

Laguna del Rey is one of the most emblematic lagoons in the Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park, located within the municipality of Ruidera (Ciudad Real). It lies just outside the town of Ruidera, and is one of the first lagoons encountered when traveling through the park by road. It is easily accessible by car, although parking near the water can be difficult during peak season.

The Valdepeñas Ornamental Fountain is located in the Plaza de España, the historic heart of the town. It is one of the city's most emblematic features and stands out for its design and symbolism: Design: A very beautiful ornamental fountain, considered a visual symbol of the square. Setting: Surrounded by historic buildings such as the Church of the Assumption and the neoclassical Town Hall. The square is characterized by traditional white and indigo arcades. In 2017, the flowerbeds were redesigned, and a permeable fixed aggregate was installed to preserve the design and reduce maintenance.

In Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park, there are several wildlife observatories where you can enjoy bird and animal watching. Observatories at the Permanent Lagoon: This 800-meter linear trail takes you to a lagoon from whose observatories you can see various aquatic birds depending on the season. Observatories on the Prado Ancho Tower Route: This 4-kilometer trail includes four wildlife observatories and ends at a two-story tower that offers impressive panoramic views of the wetland. Observatories on the Bread Island Route: This 2.5-kilometer circular trail is the most popular in the park and has several observatories where you can see ducks and other aquatic birds.

Beautiful castle ruins on top of the swamp

The fortress was originally a Muslim fort, which passed into Christian hands in 1198, remaining in the hands of the Order of Saint John in 1215, although it was conquered with the help of the Order of Santiago. Legend has it that after taking the fortress, the image of Our Lady of Peñarroya was found, venerated ever since by the residents of Argamasilla de Alba and La Solana, who share the patron saint.

In Laguna del Rey and the Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities. There are several routes that allow you to explore the park and enjoy nature. For the more adventurous, there are climbing and rappelling options in some areas of the park.