On the Saturday we ventured up the mountain, along roads that become thinner and thinner the higher we went. The views became increasingly awesome and the recreational areas we passed were buzzing with families cooking away on the public BBQ's. We saw hikers and climbers, although for once, it was nice to sit in the car and admire their efforts. Close to the top of the Sierra de Espuna is an area where there are derelict 'snow holes' (pozos de la nieve), structures which were used in the past to store snow (this would then be crushed and the formed ice would be transported down the mountain to the villages in the summer). Today some have been restored, they make cool sights when you come across them in the woodland.
Although beautiful and wild, the Sierra de Espuna does seem to have little wildlife. Maybe the human impact has been too much (although far from busy with tourism) but I was surprised not even to see any birds of prey. I shall sit still for longer next time :)
Aledo was the nearest town to our hotel, quaint with tight roads and a restored castle and church that can be seen for miles. We also visited a monument of Jesus, sat upon a high point that has many religious statues scattered around the ascent. From here we had more amazing views of the surrounding towns and mountain peaks.
Sunday was upon us before we knew it. I had a quick peek in the church at the hotel, filling up with locals for mass, the walls were all painted with various depictions and; stunning. Although not Christian, I have much respect for the architecture employed by churches in Spain.
On our way home I just had to stop at this house; it's for sale if anyone is interested!
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