With your dog in Gérgal

Both houses take dogs, with no size limit. And the setting does its part: your own terrace, a village of quiet streets and a sierra that starts at the front door. The kind of place a dog doesn't forget.

Why your dog will love Gérgal

• Outdoor space of your own at the houses — a terrace to stretch out in the cool.
• A village without the hassle: quiet streets, barely any traffic and uphill strolls that tire them out just enough.
• The sierra starting at the front door: dry riverbeds, dirt tracks and miles without meeting a soul — ideal for dogs who get stressed around other dogs.

The good walks

• The castle walk: short, uphill, with the whole village at your feet. One for your first evening.
• La Merendera to Calar Alto: from the recreation area at around 1,800 m up to the 2,168 m summit — about 7 km, with the climb spread out along the way. One for a fit dog and a cool day, with water for you both.
• The Cañada Real: if your dog is fit, the old drovers' road towards Aulago is the big day out. More detail in our hiking guide.

Local things worth knowing

• 1The pine woods higher up: the upper reaches of the sierra are planted pine, and in winter there can be snow and ice at altitude. If you're planning to head up there with your dog, drop us a line first and we'll tell you how things stand.
• 2Thorns and grass seeds: this is dry country, with barbed seed heads that latch on. Check paws and ears after every walk, especially in spring and summer.
• 3The old drovers' road: the Cañada Real out of Gérgal is a historic livestock route. Keep the lead to hand at all times, and clip it on if you do come across animals.
• 4At Calar Alto and Oasys the rules on dogs are down to each site: check before taking them along, or let them have their siesta back at the house.

What to bring

• Their bed or blanket — a familiar smell and they'll settle in no time.
• A collapsible water bowl for the trails.
• Tweezers or a comb for the grass seeds.
• And not much else: Gérgal takes care of the rest.