In the heart of the Serranía de Cuenca national park, Tragacete is positioned as a perfect place for lovers of mycology and hiking. This small place hides countless natural treasures that make it a mandatory stop for visitors to the region.
Surrounded by extensive forests and natural landscapes of great beauty, it offers a perfect environment to enjoy autumn, when they are filled with warm colors and a great diversity of mushrooms.
Tragacete, located at more than 1,200 meters above sea level, has an optimal climate and natural conditions for the proliferation of mushrooms and fungi. In its pine, oak and beech groves, it is common to find a wide variety of mycological species, such as chanterelles, boletus and senderuelas.
This rich ecosystem not only attracts experienced mushroom pickers, but also amateurs who want to get started. In addition to its richness in mycology, Tragacete stands out for its excursions, which offer spectacular landscapes, which combine with gastronomy and the opportunity to enjoy nature in its purest form.
Birth of the Júcar River
One of the most popular routes is the one that leads to the source of the Júcar River, a route that combines the beauty of the landscape with the possibility of collecting mushrooms in compliance with the regulations and always ensuring that they are suitable for consumption. This path, of moderate difficulty, runs through leafy pine trees and meadows that beautify the place.
The altitude and soil characteristics make these lands fertile and conducive to mycological biodiversity. During autumn, the itinerary becomes a perfect place for mushroom observation, especially in the wetter and shady sections.
The highlight is the source of the Júcar River, a place of great natural value where the water flows crystal clear between rocks and moss. This enclave, especially beautiful in autumn, is ideal for taking a break and enjoying the sound of the water and the colors of the forest. Along the way, it is possible to spot birds and small mammals, which adds additional attraction to the route.
The alleys of Las Majadas
Located in the Serranía de Cuenca, the Las Majadas valley route is an outstanding option for autumn hiking. This moderately difficult route extends for approximately 8 kilometers, passing through pine and oak forests, while surrounding limestone cliffs.
Among its main attractions are the Mirador del Tío Cogote, with panoramic views of the valley, and the alleys of Las Majadas, a natural labyrinth of rock formations close to the main trail.
Many visitors highlight that this tour allows you to combine the enjoyment of hiking with the opportunity to learn about the local flora, making it an educational and recreational experience.
In season, it is ideal for mycology, with species such as chanterelles and boletus that can be found along the path. Suitable for families and occasional hikers, the experience is perfectly complemented by local cuisine, where traditional mountain cuisine stands out.
Birth of the Cuervo River
Although it does not begin in Tragacete, the journey to the source of the Cuervo River, located a few kilometers from the town, is an unmissable excursion for those who visit the area. This trail is known for its impressive landscape, where waterfalls and waterfalls mix with native vegetation.
As the walkers advance, the vegetation becomes denser and the appearance of small streams and pools where the water collects and forms imposing waterfalls. This route is one of the most visited due to its natural beauty, which takes hikers to the springs that form the source of the river.
It is a simple route, perfect for families with children, which makes it an ideal option for mycology fans, as they have to travel through areas where it is common to find numerous species of mushrooms.
The municipality, aware of the rise of mycological tourism, promotes sustainable practices and the importance of respecting the natural environment. Among the recommendations are the use of wicker baskets to collect mushrooms, the proper identification of the species and the prohibition of aggressively removing them from the ground.
This combination of hiking and mycology in Tragacete not only allows you to connect with nature, but also enjoy local cuisine. In the restaurants in the area, the mushrooms harvested during the season become the stars of the local dishes.
The town offers a picturesque environment that invites you to rest and disconnect. With its cobbled streets, traditional houses and the sound of nature as a backdrop, it is easy to understand why this destination has become one of the favorites for rural tourism lovers.
Source: www.eldiario.es