The Route of the Faces (Ruta de las Caras), located in Buendía, in the province of Cuenca, is a blend of art and nature, featuring impressive sculptures carved directly into the rocks along the trail. As visitors walk the 4 km route, they have the opportunity to explore an open-air gallery, surrounded by natural landscapes and the backdrop of the Buendía reservoir.
We did the trail on a rainy day and, despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the experience was excellent. The mist over the sculptures created an almost mystical atmosphere. Despite the mud and the weather, the beauty of the Route of the Faces proved that, regardless of the conditions, this trail offers a truly memorable experience.
What is the Route of the Faces?
The Route of the Faces is a trail located in the municipality of Buendía, in the province of Cuenca, Spain. Spanning approximately 4 km, it offers an experience of close contact with nature and the contemplation of sculptures carved into the rocks. Along the route, visitors encounter more than a dozen sculptures, ranging from human faces to mythological and symbolic figures.
Created between 1992 and 2007, these works were crafted by artists Jorge Juan Maldonado and Eulogio Reguillo. By combining sculpting techniques with a unique artistic vision, they transformed the rock formations into artworks that appear to emerge naturally from the landscape.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
The Route of the Faces is an accessible and enjoyable trail, suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, here are some practical tips:
Recommended Times
The trail can be visited at any time of the year, but it’s best to start the walk in the early morning, especially during the hotter months, to avoid intense heat. There are no specific opening or closing times, as the route is outdoors and free to access.
Where to Park
For those arriving by car, there is a parking area near the start of the trail, at the entrance to the Buendía reservoir. The parking is free, but it does not have advanced facilities. From the car park, simply follow the signposts leading to the beginning of the trail.
Accessibility and Difficulty Level
The Route of the Faces is considered a low-difficulty trail, making it ideal for families and visitors of all ages. The route is approximately 4 km (round trip) and can be completed in around 2 hours, depending on the pace and stops to admire the sculptures. The terrain is relatively flat, but some sections may be uneven, especially after rainfall, so extra caution is needed in bad weather conditions.
Unfortunately, the trail is not suitable for wheelchairs, as the path is not fully paved and can be narrow in certain areas.
What to Bring
- Proper footwear: It is recommended to wear trainers or hiking boots with non-slip soles, especially on rainy days or after rainfall, as the terrain can become slippery.
- Comfortable clothing: If the weather is cold or damp, bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket. On sunny days, light and comfortable clothing is sufficient.
- Water and snacks: Although the trail is not very long, there are no food or drink vendors along the way. Bringing water and small snacks is a good idea.
- Sunscreen and a hat: On sunny days, remember to protect yourself from the sun, as some parts of the trail are open with little shade.
How to Get There
The Route of the Faces is located in the municipality of Buendía, in the province of Cuenca, and is easily accessible for visitors coming from different regions of Spain, such as Madrid and Cuenca.
Unfortunately, public transport to Buendía is limited. There are no direct trains or frequent buses from major cities like Madrid or Cuenca. For this reason, the most practical way to get there is by car. Below are the main routes and tips for reaching the site:
Travelling from Madrid
If you are departing from Madrid, the distance to Buendía is approximately 120 km, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. The best route is via the A-2 (Autovía del Nordeste) towards Guadalajara. Then, take the exit for the CM-2000, which leads directly to Buendía. The road is well-signposted, and the drive is pleasant, with beautiful scenery along the way.
Travelling from Cuenca
For those coming from the city of Cuenca, the distance is about 85 km, and the journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The best route is via the N-320, before taking the CM-2000, which also leads directly to Buendía.
Conclusion
The Route of the Faces is one of the most fascinating trails we have explored, offering a unique blend of art, history, and nature. Additionally, the surrounding landscape, with stunning views of the Buendía reservoir, enhances the experience, making the walk even more special.
Even on rainy days, as we experienced, the Route of the Faces retains its charm. It is a highly recommended trail for those looking for a different kind of outing, where art and nature come together in a harmonious (and intriguing!) way.
