Discover Campillo De Arenas

The Sierra de Campillo, also known as the Sierra de Alta Coloma, is a Mediterranean mountain area and a defining natural landscape of Campillo De Arenas. Geological and plant formations of great value shape its character. Its vegetation includes holm oaks, oaks, junipers and savin junipers. This means you can get to know the landscape not only as a mountain area, but also through its different plant species.

Sierra, Botany and Recreation Areas

The Sierra can be reached by off-road vehicle, bicycle or on foot, via the JV-2.228 and along agricultural and forestry tracks that lead directly out of the town. Choosing between these access options is a practical consideration when planning your visit. Conditions on roads and tracks may change, so check access before setting out.

A trail about local botany is located at the Desfiladero de Puerta Arenas. The Área Recreativa de Puerta de Arenas offers birdwatching, a botanical garden, hiking opportunities, a picnic area and a recreation area. Plant enthusiasts can explore both the botanical focus of the trail and the garden in the recreation area; other facilities include opportunities for exercise and a picnic area. Check the condition of the facilities before your visit.

La Peñuela is close to the town centre and is a picnic and recreation area with a viewpoint, shaded spots and a water source. Unlike the Sierra, which can be reached via the roads and tracks mentioned above, La Peñuela is distinguished above all by its location near the centre. The viewpoint, shade and water source are among the features of this recreation area.

History, Buildings and Celebrations

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación was built from the late 16th century onwards on the site of a small chapel dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament. Both the furnishings and the history of the Ermita de Santa Lucía are noteworthy: it has a richly decorated wooden ceiling, a main altar with an image of the saint, flooring and a plinth made of high-quality materials, and two wrought-iron lamps.

The chapel was built in 1858, after worshippers had collected donations over several years. Travellers also form part of its history: they stopped to pray before the image by the old tunnel. The building’s history and the tradition of prayer passed down over time offer two different insights into the significance of this place.

A rock fortress of Arab origin stands on Cerro del Castillo. It belonged to the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada for many centuries, until the Catholic Monarchs conquered it in 1486. This long historical context makes the fortress another aspect of the town’s history.

The main patron saint celebrations take place on the second weekend of August in honour of the Virgen de la Cabeza. The programme includes re-enactments of battles between Moors and Christians; the specific celebrations may vary, so it is advisable to check the dates before travelling. The Campanilleros are also part of the tradition: on Saturday night, they sing the “coplas de la Aurora” with bells, guitars and bandurrias, and invite people to join the Holy Rosary.

Traditional Cuisine

Traditional Campillo De Arenas cuisine includes a chickpea stew with bacon and other pork ingredients. Another dish is “ardoría” gazpacho, made with olive oil, garlic, salt, vinegar and breadcrumbs. A stew made with white beans, chickpeas and cod is considered a typical Holy Week dish. The ingredients and the way they are combined offer a concrete insight into the local culinary tradition.

The production of pork products is also a tradition in Campillo De Arenas. These include various types of chorizo, including one made with mutton or goat meat, as well as blood sausages. Longanizas are called salchichas there; lomo is usually prepared with garlic. Together with the traditional stews and gazpacho, these products show the range of regional dishes mentioned here.

Discover more destinations: Hinojares, Escañuela, Arjona, Huelma, Peñolite, Pozo Alcón, Mengibar, Linares

For the main travel overview: Jaen.