In the heart of the Serranía de Cuenca National Park, Tragacete is positioned as a perfect place for mycology and hiking enthusiasts. This small place hides countless natural treasures which make it an essential stopover for visitors to the region.
Surrounded by vast forests and natural landscapes of great beauty, it offers a perfect environment to enjoy autumn, when it is filled with warm colors and a great diversity of mushrooms.
Tragacete, located at more than 1,200 meters above sea level, benefits from an optimal climate and natural conditions for the proliferation of mushrooms and mushrooms. In its pine, oak and beech forests it is common to find a wide variety of mycological species, such as chanterelles, porcini mushrooms and senderuelas.
This rich ecosystem attracts not only experienced mushroom pickers, but also amateurs wishing to get started. In addition to its wealth in mycology, Tragacete stands out for its excursions, which offer spectacular landscapes, which combine with gastronomy and the possibility of enjoying 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 picking mushrooms respecting the regulations and always ensuring that they are fit for consumption. This trail, of medium difficulty, crosses deciduous pines and meadows which beautify the place.
The altitude and soil characteristics make these lands fertile and conducive to mycological biodiversity. In autumn, the route becomes an ideal place for mushroom observation, especially in the more humid and shaded sections.
The highest point 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, particularly 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 see birds and small mammals, which adds an additional attraction to the route.
The streets of Las Majadas
Located in the Serranía de Cuenca, the Las Majadas Valley route is a great option for fall hikes. This route of medium difficulty 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 near the main trail.
Many visitors point out that this tour allows you to combine the pleasure of hiking with the possibility of getting to know the local flora, making it an educational and recreational experience.
In season, it is ideal for mycology, with species such as chanterelles and porcini mushrooms found along the trail. Suitable for families and occasional hikers, the experience is perfectly complemented by the local cuisine, where traditional mountain cuisine stands out.
Birth of the Cuervo River
Although it does not start in Tragacete, the trip to the source of the Cuervo River, located a few kilometers from the town, is a must-do excursion for those visiting the area. This trail is known for its impressive scenery, where waterfalls and waterfalls mix with native vegetation.
As walkers advance, the vegetation becomes denser and small streams and pools appear where water accumulates and forms imposing waterfalls. This route is one of the most visited due to its natural beauty, which takes hikers to the springs that constitute the source of the river.
This is a simple route, perfect for families with children, making it an ideal option for mycology lovers, as they must travel through areas where it is common to find many species of mushrooms.
The municipality, aware of the growth in mycological tourism, promotes sustainable practices and the importance of respecting the natural environment. Among the recommendations are the use of wicker baskets for picking mushrooms, the correct identification of species and the prohibition of aggressive removal of them from the ground.
This combination of hiking and mycology in Tragacete not only allows you to connect with nature, but also enjoy the local cuisine. In neighborhood restaurants, mushrooms harvested during the season become the stars of local dishes.
The town offers a picturesque environment that invites rest and disconnection. With its cobbled streets, traditional houses and the sound of nature as a backdrop, it’s easy to see why this destination has become a favorite among rural tourism enthusiasts.
