The Río Chico Gorge is a narrow, rugged valley formed by the course of the Río Chico, a tributary of the Adra, on the edge of the Sierra Nevada Natural Park, near Ohanes and Berja in Almería. The river originates in the Sierra de Gádor, between Alcolea and Berja, and flows about 18 km in a north-south direction to its mouth, carving a channel that winds through a fertile valley crisscrossed by ravines and dry riverbeds on the Virgitan slope. Although its flow is variable and it may dry up in summer, it retains striking riparian vegetation featuring chestnut trees, pines, and holm oak groves, alongside old farmsteads—some in ruins and others restored as vacation homes. From the viewing point—especially in the Río Chico recreational area or along the PR-A 249 trail—you can enjoy spectacular views of Ohanes, the Ándarax Valley, the Sierra de Gádor, and the summit of Peñón de la Polarda. The route includes points of interest such as a small natural waterfall, an artificial waterfall, and the Fábrica de la Luz, a former hydroelectric plant that is now part of the area’s cultural heritage. The trail winds through chestnut trees, pines, and slate formations, accompanied by the murmur of the river, right on the edge of the Sierra Nevada National Park. The area is significant due to its protected status within the Sierra Nevada Natural Park and its inclusion in reputable hiking guides such as Senderos de Almería and Turismo Costa de Almería. It also stands out for its connection to local historical heritage, including the Molino de la Herrería and the former hydroelectric power plant. The best time to visit is between spring and fall, avoiding winter snowfall and the extreme summer heat, when the river may be dry.
