GR-247. Stage 10. Refugio Casa Forestal la Zarza-La Iruela

Stage 10 of the GR-247, which connects the Casa Forestal la Zarza Refuge with La Iruela, offers a challenging experience for hiking enthusiasts in Andalusia. With a length of 19.9 kilometers and an accumulated elevation gain of 714 meters, this route delves into an impressive natural landscape, characteristic of the Sierra de Cazorla. Throughout the journey, hikers can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area, where native flora and fauna intertwine in a mountainous setting. The difficulty of the route requires good physical condition and preparation but rewards walkers with panoramic views that extend over the valley and surrounding mountains. Upon reaching La Iruela, visitors can explore this municipality, located in the east of the province of Jaén. La Iruela is known for its history and its proximity to various points of cultural interest. One of the most notable is the castle of La Iruela, which sits atop the summits of a spur of the Sierra de Cazorla. This castle, along with its walls and the remains of an ancient monastery, constitutes an architectural ensemble that evokes the medieval history of the region. The combination of nature and historical heritage makes this stage of the GR-247 an enriching experience, where each step reveals the beauty and history of Andalusia.