One of the most impressive hiking trails in Cádiz: pools, waterfalls, and a unique setting.

The autonomous community of Andalusia is a haven for trekking enthusiasts, offering exciting hiking trails that pass through magical places in southern Spain. Clear proof of this is the route that leads to the Garganta del Capitán, one of the great hidden gems of the province of Cádiz. Along the way, you can admire countless natural treasures of great beauty.

Waterfalls, pools, and even a few legends await adventurers who venture out on this amazing trail that winds through Los Alcornocales Natural Park, one of the most valuable natural environments in the Cádiz region. This route is one of the best to complete in the Campo de Gibraltar region, and being close to Algeciras, it's a great option for a day trip before the cold weather arrives.

The route to the Captain's Gorge in Cádiz

This splendid circular route of approximately six kilometers, nestled in the Intercontinental Mediterranean Reserve , begins at the Green Gate of Algeciras, which provides access to Matapuercos Hill and leads to a vast canuto forest, a type of forest typical of the area, made up of laurel, alder, ash, and bay trees, among other species. The Fuente Santa stream will accompany hikers from the first section, but caution should be exercised around vehicles.

With views of the Bay of Algeciras and Mount Hoyo de Don Pedro, hikers will pass by 18th and 19th-century water mills, which harnessed water from the pools and streams found in the area, as well as Bronze Age vestiges that add a special charm to the route. After less than an hour, you'll reach the fascinating Garganta del Capitán waterfall, an incredible waterfall that forms pools around it and where swimming is prohibited.

A legendary route near Algeciras

Those who dare to venture along this route will come across a curious tomb known as the Captain's Tomb, carved into the rock itself in honor of Gabriel Moreno, a renowned soldier (and, it is said, smuggler) who, after retiring, took over one of the mills near the waterfall. Although he died of an illness, legend has it that he was shot by French soldiers and that he appears on certain nights , lamenting his death.

This legend only enhances the splendor of this magnificent Cádiz hiking trail, which is relatively easy to follow, making it ideal for those with little hiking experience. It's also well-marked and takes less than two hours to complete, making it perfect for spending a morning immersed in the most stunning natural surroundings in the south of the Iberian Peninsula.