Looking for a scenic hike with a touch of history? The Las Minas de Berja Trail (PR-A 336) is an 8.6-kilometre circular route in the Berja district of Almería. It’s officially marked and maintained since 2011, and perfect for both hikers and mountain bikers. This route takes you through forest paths and past abandoned mines, offering both nature and industrial heritage in one trip.

Start near Castala Periurban Park

The trail starts about 250 metres from the exit of Castala Periurban Park. It branches off from the Lavaderos Trail (PR-A 337) and climbs through a shady forest of Aleppo pines. These trees regrew after a wildfire and now form a peaceful green backdrop for your journey.

A rare mercury mine among the ruins

One of the first stops is the Azogue mine. This is the only mercury mine in an area mainly known for lead mining. A bit further, you'll spot the remains of a limestone quarry near the site known as Cuatro Amigos. The trail briefly joins the Lavaderos Trail again before continuing through a grove of mature holm oaks.

Abandoned mines along the way

As the trail curves through the hills, it passes several old mines, including Julio César, Esperanza and Memoria. To reach Esperanza, take a short 130-metre detour. Memoria marks the point where the trail separates again from the PR-A 337.

Panoramic views and rocky terrain

The route runs beneath the peaks of Los Lavaderos de El Segundo, once a busy site for lead and fluorite extraction. Here, the trail flattens out and offers wide open views of the surrounding landscape. Later, it dips downhill and passes by other former mines such as Benito and Café con Leche, close to the SL-A 58 trail.

Rambla de Julbina and the final stretch

The last part of the hike follows the Rambla de Julbina, a dry riverbed lined with pine trees. The trail crosses the rambla several times, passing small dams built to prevent erosion. It finishes where it reconnects with the Lavaderos Trail and follows a forest track back to where you started.

Trail info at a glance

• Type: Circular route

• Distance: 8.6 kilometres

• Trail status: Official and signposted

• Suitable for: Hiking and mountain biking

• Starting point: Castala Periurban Park

• Emergency number: Call 112

Stay safe on the trail

The area includes abandoned mines with open shafts. Always stay on the marked path. Forest fire risk is high in this region, so follow local safety rules and avoid lighting fires.

This trail is a great pick if you want to mix outdoor activity with a journey into the industrial past of Andalusia. Short, varied and full of stories from another time.

source: www.andalucia.org