Free walking tours in Ossa de Montiel and what to see

Must-sees

Ossa de Montiel lies in the west of Albacete province and is that province's gateway to the Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park. Many of the lakes are within its boundaries, linked by waterfalls and streams that create a surprising landscape in the middle of the La Mancha plain. Some of the best known are La Conceja, La Tinaja, San Pedro and La Redondilla, and in summer many fill with bathers.

The area is closely tied to Don Quixote. The Cave of Montesinos, where Cervantes set one of his hero's most famous adventures, can be visited and is a few kilometres from the village. Also in the municipality are the remains of Rochafrida castle, on a hill beside the lakes, reached by a waymarked path. The village itself is quiet and makes a good base for exploring the area.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in Ossa de Montiel. The best-known guided activity is the kayak route on the Lagunas de Ruidera, a different way to explore the water and waterfalls from the inside. The natural park also has waymarked trails you can do on your own, and the park's visitor centre has information on routes and visits.

How long to spend

To see the main lakes, look into the Cave of Montesinos and climb to Rochafrida, allow a full day, because the distances between sights mean you have to drive. If you want to swim, kayak or walk the trails at leisure, two or three days is ideal. Spring and early summer are the best times to see the waterfalls flowing.

Where to stay

You can stay in Ossa de Montiel itself, with rural houses and simple accommodation, or by the lakes, where there are houses and apartments a few steps from the water. Ruidera, in Ciudad Real province, is another good base at the far end of the park. Demand is high in summer, so book ahead.