The natural and monumental attractions of the El Maestrazgo region are as numerous as they are sometimes unknown to the very Aragonese. Here, one can visit places rich in heritage such as Cantavieja or La Iglesuela del Cid, as well as picturesque towns like Mirambel or Miravete de la Sierra. Not to mention the countless trails and routes that wind through the forests and rivers, providing all their natural wealth to this area of Teruel.
In fact, the natural heritage of the region is so rich that within its boundaries, there are four protected areas that hold the designation of Natural Monument, a level of protection granted by the Government of Aragon. These four sites are the Órganos de Montoro, the Grutas de Cristal de Molinos, the Natural Bridge of La Fonseca, and the source of the Pitarque River. The latter is the focus of our discussion.
First, it should be noted that the Pitarque River does not originate in this locality, but in the neighboring Fortanete. However, there it is merely a small stream that suddenly seeps underground and disappears beneath this karst terrain. That water does not resurface until it reaches what is now known as a Natural Monument.
After this short underground journey, the flow emerges at various natural springs to create, now, a significant watercourse. This occurs in a rocky setting where the so-called «Ojo de la Fuente,» «La Chimenea,» and «Ojal de los Planos» are located. There are several cavities in the rock through which the water reappears to varying degrees. Witnessing how the liquid flows from the earth in quantities that are quite remarkable is truly a natural spectacle, especially after snowmelt or during the rainiest periods.
While the summer heat is not the most conducive for appreciating the full intensity of this peculiar «rebirth» of the Pitarque River, the landscape and the entire route leading to it provide a much-welcomed refreshing sensation during the summer months.
To embark on this trail, one must reach the core of Pitarque itself. There, the signage clearly indicates the route to follow. The total distance will be 10 kilometers round trip, and every last centimeter of that journey will be worth it.
The first part begins in the urban area of Pitarque, ascending towards the hermitage of the Virgen de la Peña. But there’s no need to be alarmed, as it is a relatively manageable ascent, and the reward is that after reaching the temple, the path soon delves into the river canyon. Thus, the hike almost always takes place in shaded areas with the refreshing water alongside. Before one even realizes it, walking among buckthorns, hazelnuts, or oak trees, one arrives at the spring itself.
Along the way, the summit of Peñarrubia stands out dramatically. It is equally impossible not to notice the whimsical shapes of the rock formations lining the path. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear for this mountain trail, as well as to bring water and a snack to replenish energy.
Moreover, it is highly recommended to carry a pair of small binoculars to spot a myriad of birds soaring above the area, especially raptors. It is quite common to see griffon vultures. However, one should not be surprised if they suddenly spot the white plumage of a Egyptian vulture or the silhouettes of a golden eagle and a booted eagle in the area’s skies. The experience will be complete if one is lucky enough to see a peregrine falcon hunting at breathtaking speeds.
Nevertheless, not all noteworthy wildlife is observed in flight. If one walks quietly and attentively, it is possible to discover wild goats leaping from rock to rock, especially in the late afternoon or very early when they might come down to drink from the river.
In short, the excursion to the source of the Pitarque River in Teruel is an activity that every nature lover should undertake. What’s more, the appearance of this landscape changes with each season, so if it is explored this summer, one will be eager to return and enjoy it again in the colors of autumn or the vibrancy of springtime.
