Laguna del Rey Viewpoint
Known locally as Mirador del Cerro de las Canteras, this viewpoint is on the CR-650 road near Ruidera village. It offers stunning views of the Lagunas del Rey and Colgada, making it an ideal spot for enjoying sunsets.
- Book online
- Discover Campingred
- Customer Service
Discovering Unique Attractions Around Los Batanes
Must-See Viewpoints and Historical Sites
Peñarroya Reservoir
Inaugurated in 1959 for hydroelectric and irrigation purposes, this reservoir, located at the end of the Lagunas de Ruidera in Argamasilla de Alba, is a unique fishing spot. Adjacent to it is the notable Peñarrolla Castle.
Miravetes Lock Bridge
This 18th-century bridge, near the Cenagosa and Coladilla lagoons in Ruidera, marks the start of the Gran Prior Canal. Designed by architect Juan de Villanueva, it was constructed to control and direct water levels. Made of carved stone, it's an impressive example of historical engineering.
Chorro de las minas
Connecting the Tinaja and Sampedra lakes, this tunnel and open channel was created to prevent flooding at the Ruiperez power station. Excavations here revealed burial sites and petroglyphs on the park's tuffaceous walls. It is now a popular kayaking route.
Historical Power Stations
In the Lagunas de Ruidera Natural Park, there used to be six hydroelectric power stations:
El Ossero
Located between Laguna Blanca and Conceja, built near an old flour mill. It was the smallest and least powerful station.
Ruipérez
Located near the Tomilla lagoon, with a large workers' house. It operated from 1924 to 1976.
Santa Elena
On the tuffaceous barrier of the Batana and Colgada lagoons, this was the first major station, operational from 1902 to 1970.
San Alberto
Near Ruidera, it used water from Laguna del Rey, regulated by floodgates, and formed a notable waterfall.
Miravetes
Located near Cenagosa lagoon, ceased operations in the 1970s.
San Luis
At the tail end of the Peñarrolla reservoir, it is the worst preserved.
Peñarroya Castle
This well-preserved fortification next to the reservoir features a chapel with the Virgin of Peñarrolla, open to visitors.
Rochafrida Castle
Located 7 km from Ossa de Montiel, this 12th-century military castle from the Muslim occupation offers scenic views of the valley despite its ruined state.
Although the site is in a dilapidated state, the route to reach it and the views it offers of the valley make it well worth a visit.
The locals refer to this place with a curious name, as it is where they believe the Ruidera lagoons are born. Here, water rises from the rock, gurgling as it nourishes the Blanca lagoon. Due to its difficult accessibility, many people never get to experience this hidden gem.
"Zampullones"
Birthplace of the Ruidera Lagoons
Known to locals as the birthplace of the Ruidera lagoons, this spot features water rising from the rock to feed the Blanca lagoon. It is a hidden and less accessible gem.
Plaza de Toros
This geologically significant area is important at a European level due to its unique karst formation. It is part of the Ringurrinas River, channelling water from the Tomilla lagoon into the Tinaja.
Almorchones Hill
This historical hill, located opposite the Tinaja lagoon, divides the valley in two. It is believed to have been an invincible fortress surrounded by water, used by early human settlements.
Lengua Lagoon Cave
Situated near the canal, bordering the Lengua lagoon, this cave is an important yet lesser-known site worth exploring for its historical significance.
Canal to Santa Elena Power Station
This 4-kilometre-long canal, with a height of almost 2 metres and a width of 1.60 metres, was part of the hydroelectric network. Though abandoned, it stands as a testament to the region's engineering history.
Isla in Laguna Colgada
An inlet known as Isla serves as a natural boundary between the provinces of Ciudad Real and Albacete. This area is steeped in stories and adds a magical charm to any visit.
El Hundimiento (The Sinking Waterfall)
Located next to the cemetery in Ruidera village, this is the highest waterfall in the natural park. Known for its beauty and the many legends surrounding its creation, it is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Pozo de las minas (The Well of the Mines)
In the valley of San Pedro, between the hermitage and the cave of Montesinos, lies the well of Las Minas. Though never fully explored, it remains an intriguing site with remnants of its drilling efforts visible in the landscape.
Quebrada del Toro (Bull's Gully)
This 400-metre-long and 40-metre-deep chasm offers interpreted routes along wooden walkways, leading to caves and spectacular viewpoints. Located on the AB-612 road, it is a unique destination filled with history and mystery.
Monjas Hill and Monjas Cross
This serene walking route ends with viewpoints over the Tomilla, Tinaja, and Sampedra lagoons. The hill is crowned by a large cross-linked to several stories involving nuns, adding a historical and spiritual dimension to the site.
Valley of San Pedro, Encina, and Molino
Travelling down the AB-612 road to the AB-611 road brings you to the valley of San Pedro. This area features the Alarconcillo River, meadows, the San Pedro Chapel, and the ruins of an old flour mill known as the Camacho Mill. The majestic Noguera de San Pedro tree stands as a natural landmark, and locals celebrate pilgrimages in this valley.
San Pedro Hermitage and Saint
Located on the AB-611 road, the hermitage is built on the remains of an old Visigothic hermitage. Inside, the image of San Pedro de Verona is venerated by locals, who celebrate two pilgrimages annually. The site is rich in varied stories and traditions, adding cultural depth to your visit.
Ancient Petroglyphs
Petroglyphs, a term derived from prehistoric times, refer to engravings made by striking and flaking stones. This type of ancient artwork has been discovered in our area, specifically near the Tinaja lagoon. Although not easily accessible, these engravings are a remarkable testament to early human history.
The Totems
Located along the AB-611, these enormous stone columns, standing over 10 metres tall, resemble heads when viewed in profile. Often overlooked, these natural formations have become a curious and intriguing part of the park's landscape, each with its own story to tell.
Site Map
About CampingRed
Useful information
Adress
Ctra. Lagunas de Ruidera, km 8
02611 OSSA DE MONTIEL - ALBACETE - Castilla-la Mancha - Spain
Teléfono. +34 926699076 +34 926699020
mail. camping@losbatanes.com
