Geology theme park

The Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Geopark is an extensive mountainous massif located in the south-east of the province of Cáceres.

The beauty of its landscape houses an authentic geology theme park, the ultimate symbol of which is the Cave of Castañar de Ibor. Declared a Natural Monument, this is an extremely beautiful and highly developed underground cave. It is currently closed to the public, but you can see a 3D reproduction of it in the Interpretation Centre.

The park's geological diversity is one of it most outstanding features, with natural formations that cover the different stages of the formation of the Earth. Its highest point is the "Risco de La Villuerca", the summit of which offers a magnificent view of the mountains, valleys and Guadalupe, with its identity mark, the Royal Monastery.

Hiking is the best way of discovering these mountains with their great geological diversity, where we can find the oldest rocks on Earth, known as Appalachian. You can obtain more information at the Cañamero visitors' centre or the Guadalupe tourist information office.

Outstanding from the geological sites you can visit is the Costanaza Mine, which was operational until 1944. Only the 2 upper galleries can be visited, where you can hear the typical sounds of mining activity, and see the mineralized seam of phosphorite, springs and stalactites.

Outside you can see installations that keep the original mining structure in perfect condition, like the refined products factory and the mine laboratory, which houses the Costanaza Mine Interpretation Centre. For youngsters, the main attraction is bound to be riding the train that adds life to the entrance of the mine in a very entertaining fashion.

As well as caves and mines, in this area you can take a dip in one of the natural swimming pools and above all, enjoy the exceptional scenery.

You can round off your trip by tasting some of the typical local products, such as the D.O. "Ibores" cheese, the D.O. "Villuercas-Ibores" honey, the "Dehesa de Extremadura" meat products, the famous Guadalupe blood pudding, the cherries, chestnuts and traditionally-made confectionery. The whole family will love it!