El Cañón de las Buitreras Natural Monument
The Cañón de las Buitreras is the strikingly named Gorge of the Vultures, after the colony of griffon vultures that nest in the area. The gorge itself is impressive, with often near-vertical sides at times reaching 200m high. In the bottom of the gorge is the Guadiaro river, which has eroded the limestone rock.
Canyoning
Canyoning is travelling in canyons by walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling and swimming. Hiking down a canyon many require a technical descents with ropes. Canyoning is frequently done in remote and rugged settings. This Canyon is no exception and should not be undertaken without an experienced local guide. There have been a number of serious accidents here. There are a number of local adventure companies who will provide all the equiptment and know how necessary for a descent of the Cañón de las Buitreras.
ACCESS
The gorge is locatedbetween the municipalities of Colmenar and Cortes de la Frontera. The footpath (see below) is not difficult to follow. The canyon itself is difficult to access due to the steep sides.
FOOTPATH
There is an interesting signed walk from Cortes de la Frontera via the side of the Cañon to Estacion Gaucin or El Colmenar.
The walk crosses Puente de Los Alemanes a high, open-sided stone bridge; not to be crossed by the faint-hearted. The walk also features a small tunnel.
