Simancón – Charca Verde Family-Friendly Hike

If you’re looking for a light to medium-level hike in the stunning Grazalema National Park, this family-friendly trail is the perfect way to spend a day exploring the natural beauty of Cádiz.

How It All Began

Funny enough what started as a casual mindless scroll through Instagram one evening, turned into an unforgettable adventure. While browsing, I stumbled upon a reel from @yocomoporti, showcasing a combination of hiking and dining in Grazalema. The breathtaking views and the charming restaurant they visited caught my attention (the restaurant looked tasty). As luck would have it, my partner in crime (aka hubby) Julian, had also mentioned how we hadn’t been on a good hike in a while.

And wallah a Saturday plan was set! 

The Hike in Grazalema National Park

The hike begins just outside the town of Grazalema, with a parking lot conveniently located at the trailhead near Camping Tajo Rodillo. This area offers several different routes, but we opted for a lovely loop (see the picture below).

The loop takes about 3 hours to complete, with a couple of photo stops and a snack break along the way. The trail stretches for 10.46km (roughly 6.5 miles) and is perfect for families with kids. We did this hike a second time with a 10-year-old, and it took us a little longer—around 4 hours—

To be fair this time did include a picnic stop and several smaller stops to do some 10 year old activities such as, throw rocks at rocks, poke rocks with sticks, and climb rocks then jump off said rocks… you know the important stuff. 

The hike starts with a steep climb under two peaks before leveling off in a valley with short shrubs. Keep an eye out for livestock; there’s a gate at the start of the trail that must be closed behind you. After reaching the first climb, take the fork to the right, and you’ll soon encounter an old well (and possibly some goats!).

From there, a steady incline takes you to the highest point of the hike, with panoramic views of the Grazalema Natural Park. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might spot some local wildlife, such as Eurasian Griffon Vultures, a Bonelli’s Eagle, or even some lizards and butterflies. You’ll definitely encounter local goats along the way, too! 

Keep in mind that towards the end of the incline you will find another gate. (Again, dont forget to close it behind you). 

Up there you will find a field of sun bleached lime stone rocks and beautiful views. The views in front of you will be the rolling  hills of  of the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema, or The Natural Park of the Sierra of Grazalema and If you look behind you, you will see views as far as Ronda.

There is also a really cool rock path, it’s tradition that hikers add a rock to it as they pass by.

Don’t forget to add your own rock!

You can also find a couple of rock shelters that are used by Shepard in bad weather. (great for the gram or a picnic)

Stay to the right of the path and as you exit the rock field you will start a  steep descent. It will eventually bring you down towards the pine trees and pop you out where the road A-374.

At this parking lot you will find a small gravel footpath that runs down parallel to the road. This path is about 30 min and will take you right to the parking lot you parked at.

Along it you will see an oddly large picnic table and a pretty little creek with possible frogs and if you look hard enough you can find a nature rock arch.

Insider Tips:

• Bring a snack! A few tasty tapas, such as local cheese, jamón, and crackers, are perfect for a light break on the trail. If you want to make it a full day, pack a picnic!
• Carry all your trash home—let’s keep our beautiful nature spots clean.
• Don’t forget your camera! This hike offers plenty of photo opportunities with spectacular views and wildlife.
• Dress in layers: I always recommend layering like an onion. This way, you can adjust your clothing based on the temperature throughout the hike.

The Restaurant in Grazalema

After your hike, head to La Merina Brasa Autóctona, a restaurant located at the entrance of Grazalema.

The restaurant’s mantra and philosophy is ‘eat and Drink Cádiz’, 90% of the menu is locally sourced. Retinto meat (local grass fed beef), fish from Barbate, cheese from the white villages and olive oil from the area are just a few of the menu items. Bonus: The restaurant sites on a clifside providing breathtaking views of Grazalema.

Enjoy dishes like berenjenas a tempura con miel (tempura eggplant with honey) and ensalada de aguacate (avocado salad), all while taking in breathtaking views of Grazalema.

Definitely worth a stop!

Make sure to reserve ahead to ensure a spot at this popular local eatery.

Make reservations online here.

A Perfect Sunset to End the Day

For sunset enthusiasts, the road heading back towards El Puerto/Rota (if that is where you are headed) offers fantastic views. Don’t miss the chance to stop and capture a stunning sunset—ideal for nature and photography enthusiasts.

Want More Adventures in Cádiz?

If you’re intrigued by the beauty and charm of Cádiz’s White Villages, check out our Discover the White Villages of Cádiz experience for a guided tour through some of the most picturesque towns in southern Spain.