Castril is located in a little known area called the Altiplano de Granada, in the most NE tip of the Granada province in Andalucia. A diverse area in part dry and barren to fertile valleys and fantastic vistas. At this time of year the views of the snow capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada are fantastic. It is an area steeped in tradition, with many local fiestas and celebrations throughout the year - the main fiesta is in October and should not be missed - with the running of the bulls and much free flowing Sangria. It is also a fantastic location for many outdoor activities. Down in the beautiful Sierra de Castril the river runs all year reaching the Embalse Portillo. There are many activities available, for the more energetic both mountain and road cycling is great, mountain climbing, walking etc. With the fantastic ever changing scenery it is a painter or photographers dream. You experience every season here, snow in the winter, almonds blossoms and an abundance of poppies in the spring to high temperatures in the summer (40šplus) to autumn colour as the poplar trees lose there leaves.
The wildlife is fantastic and throughout the year Griffon Vultures can be seen in many numbers circling above. There are many other birds to see, kites, eagles etc and the spring flowers of camomile, poppies and wild rocket cover the land.
Castril itself is a traditional Andalucian village, with white washed houses and narrow cobble streets. The visitor centre offers much information about the area with maps on many of the walks availabe. In the summer the local pool fed direct from the river is beautiful and offers a great place to relax in the sun. There are a number of bars in Castril and in this area tapas is still freely given with a cerveza (beer!)
If you want a change from the normal Spanish holiday then Castril and the surrounding area is definitely worth a visit, although off the beaten track access is good with excellent road links to many airports, Granada, Almeria, Murcia and Alicante.
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