Free walking tours in Ruidera and what to see

Must-sees

Ruidera is the gateway to the Lagunas de Ruidera Nature Park, a chain of lakes linked by waterfalls and streams between Ciudad Real and Albacete. In the village itself is the El Hundimiento waterfall, which in high water is one of the most spectacular in the park. Beside it is the Casa del Rey, an 18th-century building linked to the old gunpowder factory.

From the village you can drive or cycle the road that skirts the lakes, stopping at the Laguna del Rey, La Colgada or La Redondilla. The water has green and turquoise tones from the limestone. It's worth visiting the Cueva de Montesinos, which Cervantes used for one of the episodes of Don Quixote, and the remains of Rochafrida castle.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no city-style free walking tours in Ruidera. Guided visits of the nature park are the norm: walks along the shores, interpreted strolls on how the lakes formed and birdwatching outings. They're usually in small groups and also explain the area's plants and wildlife.

Among paid activities, the guided visit to the Cueva de Montesinos, kayaking or canoeing on the lakes where permitted and guided bike rides stand out. In summer there are also sunset excursions. If you're interested in Don Quixote, there are tours linking Ruidera with other villages on the Cervantes route.

How long to spend

A full day is enough to see the main sights. Spend the morning at the El Hundimiento waterfall and on a walk around the upper lakes, and the afternoon at the Cueva de Montesinos and a viewpoint or two. If you want to swim, kayak or walk at a relaxed pace, stay two days. In spring, with more water, the falls look better than at the end of summer.

Where to stay

The most practical option is to stay in Ruidera itself, in rural houses, guesthouses or apartments near the lakes road. That way the water is a few minutes away and you can set off early, when there are fewer people. There are also places to stay along the shores, quieter but car-dependent. If you prefer a bigger town, Argamasilla de Alba is close and works as a base.