Off the beaten track in spain

The tiny aldea of Huelga Utrera nestles in the center of the largest protected area in Spain, the Parque Natural de Las Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas. The village, of just 20 houses, sits on the confluence of the Río Segura and its first tributary, the Río Madera. The Segura river borders the aldea, just 40m from the house and its crystal clear waters are home to the native brown trout and otter. Both rivers form wonderful natural pools for wild swimming, and the Anchuricas lake is just 4km down the valley, a great place for a swim with a view or for a little kayaking.

Although Huelga Utrera is at an altitude of 1,000m, it sits in the base of the valley dominated by the stunning mountains that surround it on all sides. These are home to large colonies of Griffon Vultures, which soar across the valley throughout the day. In the spring you may be lucky enough to see Golden Eagles tumbling through the sky in their courtship display, or perhaps one of the dozen Bearded Vultures that have been re-introduced to the area over the last few years. Golden Oriole nest in the poplars at the end of the garden and their tropical warble can be heard from late spring through summer.

Casa del Agua, the holiday cottage, has been lovingly restored without losing its rustic charm, it is large and spacious, has a chefs kitchen with stunning views across the orchard and down the valley. The large patio and garden at the rear of the house are a excellent location for spotting the local wildlife - most nights the orchard is visited by red deer and wild boar. A short walk at dusk is great opportunity for spotting the local fauna, or some of the exotic moths that can be found and few other locations.

This is one of the best areas in Southern Spain for hiking, and a perfect spot as a base for your walking holiday. From the house, you have a least a dozen trails from 2-20km. The famous hiking trail to the Cueva de Agua starts from the Aldea and traces the Segura river up the valley. The Sierra Segura area within the natural park boasts over 700km of marked trails, ranging from the intimidating 72km GR-147, to more sedate trails of 1 or 2 hours.

If you want to get off the beaten track, away from the crowds, immerse yourself in natural surroundings and a part of Spain that has changed little over the last 50 years, then Huelga Utrera is the place for you.