Armuña de Almanzora is a small village in the Almanzora Valley, but it is full of places that tell stories. It can be reached from the A-334 km 40, which passes right next to the village centre. Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fk44LULEKyGiB5fU8
The route I propose begins on the outskirts, on the well-known banana plantation straight, and gradually takes us to the heart of the municipality, passing through natural spaces, charming streets and places steeped in tradition.
The path begins at the banana plantation, a stretch that extends like a green corridor at the entrance to the village. The tall, leafy banana trees form a kind of green tunnel that accompanies walkers with shade and coolness.
As you continue on, you will come to the Casillas neighbourhood. The residents here have turned creativity and recycling into a true hallmark of their identity. They use all kinds of materials—wood, metal, plastic, fabric, and construction debris—to give them a second life. These materials are transformed into planters, decorative figures, and small details that fill the gardens with colour. The residents change the decorations at different times of the year: at Halloween and Christmas, it’s best to come and visit!
Continuing along the route, we come to the curious inverted banana tree, a tree that has become a local symbol due to its peculiar shape. Its trunk and branches seem to twist downwards. It is a surprising sight that invites you to stop and observe how even the most everyday things can be transformed into something extraordinary.
The route climbs gently to the viewpoint, from where you can see the Almanzora Valley in all its splendour. Fields of almond and olive trees stretch out like a mosaic, and the nearby mountains form a serene horizon. This is a good place to take a long break: breathe deeply, let your gaze wander and feel the connection between the village and its natural surroundings.
Heading down towards the centre, we arrive at Plaza de la Constitución. It is an open space where parties, gatherings and conversations take place. There we can also visit the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario.
From the square, we can take Calle Real (known as Calle de Enmedio) or venture into the narrow streets, which form a charming little labyrinth. The corners filled with flower pots create an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. This walk is ideal for those who enjoy photography.
The route takes us to the Mentidero, a traditional space where neighbours used to gather to chat and share news. It was a place for meeting, socialising and gossiping, where words circulated freely. Although customs have changed today, it remains a symbol of the village’s social life.
We continue towards Los Porches, where we find the school and sports facilities with access to the municipal car park. Passing by the school reminds us that every village, no matter how small, is sustained by the transmission of knowledge and values.
The route ends at the traditional washing place, ‘Los Caños’, a humble spot but one that is full of meaning. For decades, the women of the village came here to wash their clothes and, at the same time, to share confidences, songs and moments of conviviality. It is a place that connects with the daily life of yesteryear and is now preserved as part of the cultural heritage.
For nature lovers, we can continue the route towards the Almanzora river valley, where the crops show the agricultural wealth of the area. Here you can see vegetable gardens, almond and olive trees, as well as small irrigation channels that still water the fields. This stretch is ideal for walking calmly and observing how nature blends with human labour.
And finally, it is worth mentioning the Puente de los Tres Ojos (Bridge of the Three Eyes), named for its three arches. It is located on the Rambla de Cela. The bridge blends into the landscape of the Rambla, surrounded by mountains and Mediterranean vegetation. From its vicinity, you can enjoy beautiful views of the valley and the village.
Walking through this village is like entering a world where simplicity becomes beauty, where every corner holds a memory and where life is enjoyed without haste.
Publication written by Eva Mª Navarro Lara
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