Pico Bonales from Puerto de los Ciegos - Huelva

This trail visit the summits of two provinces, Pico Bonales in Huelva (Andalucía) and Tentudia in Badajoz (Extremadura), both in very short distance to eachother. The walk between them is very pleasant and highly recommendable. For an active hiker this is one of those trails that offers a relaxed experience between your most ambitious and demanding hikes.

The loop trail passes through:
- Bonales Este (0.7 km)
- Pico Bonales (1.1 km)
- Collado de la Majada del Moral (1.5 km)
- El Labrado (3.6 km)
- Tentudia (4.8 km)

Surroundings:
This route begins at Puerto de los Ciegos, a scenic mountain pass that links the provinces of Huelva and Badajoz, Spain. The surrounding landscape is part of the Sierra Morena range, an area celebrated for its biodiversity, where Mediterranean forests and meadows thrive. As you ascend Pico Bonales, the highest peak in Huelva at about 1,055 meters, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of cork oak forests and natural rock formations. Heading toward Tentudía, expect a tranquil journey through unspoiled hillsides, often home to native flora and fauna, including wild boar, deer, and a variety of bird species.

The Tentudía Monastery:
At Tentudia, the highest peak in the province of Badajoz at 1,105 masl., you'll encounter the Monastery of Tentudía, a significant historical and architectural landmark. According to legend, the monastery was established in the 13th century after Alfonso X of Castile invoked the Virgin Mary to "stop the day" ("detén tu día") so his troops could secure victory over the Moors. The miracle is said to have inspired the construction of the original shrine, later expanded into a monastery by the Order of Santiago.

The monastery combines Mudejar and Gothic architectural styles and houses a 15th-century altarpiece attributed to the famous sculptor Niculoso Pisano. Perched atop Tentudía, it offers panoramic views across the region, marking the highest point in the province of Badajoz.