Estación de Coripe

A beautiful day, too nice to stay indoors, so we took a drive to the Estación de Coripe, one of the old stations along the Via Verde, the length of disused railway track stretching 36 kms between Olvera in the east and Puerto Serrano at its western end, now converted into a leisure trail.

Above, looking towards the pueblo of Coripe.

There we were, enjoying a pleasant drive along the picturesque A-8126 towards the Estación when around a bend we were confronted by this beautiful Spanish Ibex (mountain goat) coming down the road towards us. It turned and headed into the undergrowth so apologies for the poor picture quality, taken through the side window........there was no way I was getting out of the car. Can you see the size of those horns !!!.

Calcetines enjoying the outing, keeping watch for more wildlife.



Looking down upon the Coripe Viaduct, one of four along the trail.

We pulled into the Estación and parked the car. For those feeling energetic there are bikes for hire here.....one day, maybe.

This tunnel leaves the station and heads east towards Olvera.


The station rest area and restaurant.

We started to walk westward, passing by many enthusiastic cyclists. We truly believe that the spanish people are some of the happiest and friendliest on the planet. You are always greeted with a friendly "hola" or "buenas dias", particularly if you are taking a photo.

Looking up at the Coripe Viaduct and crossing it below to more enthusiastic greetings. Brilliant people.

At the far end of the viaduct is the longest tunnel along the route, stretching 990 metres through the Sierra de Coripe.

It is illuminated throughout its length and goes on......


.......and on.......

...and on......

...eventually emerging into bright sunlight.




After spending a few moments to recover from our, or should I say my exertions, we turned around and headed back to the station, pictured here from the road to Coripe.

Driving back via La Muela, we came across this massive bull blocking the road....well its horns were big anyway. Again, my courage failed me so I stayed in the car but luckily the farmer was just around the corner and gently encouraged it on its way.