As we drive north across the flat expanse of the Antequera Depression leaving behind us the mountains of the Central Limestone Arch, it may not be obvious as to where we are heading, but before long the mountains of the Sierras Subbeticas appear, and it is just south of these, on a rocky aberration, that is our destination.
We are heading for the Sierra del Camorro, a geological formation in which two plates of the earth's crust moved against each other. The exterior of this mountain range now shows numerous fractures, cracks, and fissures, which gives this terrain its rugged appearance. These rocks with their fissures, eroded by rain and wind, produce a host of walkways and caves that are typical of a karst landscape.
Our walk starts with a brisk climb up through the pine forests until we reach the metal stairway to the entrance of the Belda caves. Exploring the caves are optional, and although we can continue with the walk, the short trip into the caves shouldn't be missed! The cave extends for over 200 metres, with high domes and huge columns, and with several lakes created by the constant flooding.
After leaving the caves we find ourselves on a steep ascent that takes us to our first summit, where the ruins of the Belda Medina can be found. After a short scramble, our final ascent brings us to the second summit and highest point of the day. From our vantage point we have an all-round view; north to the Sierras Subbeticas, south back to the mountains of the Central Limestone Arch, east to Lake Iznajar, and west across the Antequera Depression. A beautiful place to be!
