Almeria is known for its contrasting corners. We go from its beautiful coastline to its desert, the protagonist of so many Hollywood Westerns, without forgetting the relatively recent discovery of the Pulpí Geode. However, although a priori not so popular, the easternmost province of Andalusia is home to other equally striking places. This is the case of the Las Canales de Padules Natural MonumentThe gorge is two kilometers long and separates the mountain ranges of Sierra Nevada and Sierra de Gádor.
This stretch of the river is characterized by the formation of impressive canyons and gorges, known as "channels", which have been sculpted by water erosion over thousands of years.
The geological uniqueness and scenic beauty of the Canales de Padules have led to its declaration as a Natural Monument with the aim of preserving and protecting this unique environment. The area offers a great diversity of flora and fauna, with species adapted to the rocky cliffs and aquatic habitats of the river.
We are in the heart of the Alpujarra of Almeria, a group of 22 municipalities surrounded by a mountainous environment that reaches an altitude of over 2,000 meters and is far from the picture of flatness that is usually found in the Andalusian province.
And among this handful of villages we stop in Padules, because it is on its way through this charming town where the river Andarax is transformed into a series of pools and waterfalls drawing a canvas that gives the retina of those who visit.
But while the photogenic of this parade of waterfalls known as Las Canales de Padules is indisputable, the canyon through which the river flows is not far behind. The course of the Andarax River has sculpted over thousands of years whimsical curves and nooks and crannies creating a true work of natural art that, added to the pools, offers a perfect place to enjoy a rural getaway with the essence of Almeria.
To get to this unique place you can leave your car directly in the parking enabled one kilometer from the town of Padules. Free parking is available all year round except during the summer months, when a fee of 3 euros is charged.
It is important to mention that getting wet is inevitable because you have to cross, literally, the pools. In the areas of Las Canales de Padules and after heavy rains, the depth of the puddles can reach up to one meter high but with some booties there is no major complication. In summer, when the depth is less, if you do not want to get wet it is best to wear shorts.
The route to cross Las Canales de Padules is linear and fun because, in addition to overcoming the pools, the road has several rocks and backwaters full of vegetation that must be circumvented. A most entertaining route in which you have to pay special attention to each step but that offers a landscape of those that comfort the adventurous soul in which abound, among other plant species, poplars, ash trees, blackberries, tarajes, rushes and gayombas.
Without taking an accelerated pace, getting to Las Canales de Padules from the parking lot usually takes about an hour and a half. It is a route that is very well signposted and is classified as of medium-low difficulty.
After completing this first section that serves as a prelude, we fully access Las Canales with its discreet waterfalls of crystalline waters and lush vegetation offering a cool environment that is especially appreciated in the hot summer months.
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