Morra del Buitre: A Rugged 2,000m Journey in Sierra de Castril
Morra del Buitre is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,032m (6,666ft) above sea level, located in the province of Granada, Andalusia. Situated in the northernmost part of the province, it is one of the highest driveable points in the Sierra de Castril Natural Park, offering a raw and wild alternative to the more famous Sierra Nevada.
Where is Morra del Buitre Located?
The pass, which appears as Morro del Pocico on some topographical maps, is located just south of the Peñón del Toro. It sits near the border between the provinces of Granada and Jaén, acting as a natural balcony overlooking the vast forests of the Sierra de Cazorla.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 2,032m (6,666ft) |
| Distance | 13.6 km from A-4301 |
| Elevation Gain | 918 m |
| Average Gradient | 6.75% |
| Location | Sierra de Castril (Granada), Spain |
| Recommended Vehicle | 4WD with high clearance |
Is the Road to Morra del Buitre Unpaved?
The ascent is a serious undertaking for any driver. The road is entirely unpaved, characterized by:
- Rugged Terrain: Expect loose limestone rocks and deep ruts, especially after the spring rains.
- Narrow Sections: Some parts of the track hug the mountainside with significant exposure.
- Vehicle Requirements: A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. While the average gradient is manageable, the traction on loose stones requires low-range gearing in several steep sections.
How Long and Steep is the Drive to Morra del Buitre?
Starting from the paved A-4301 road, the track to the pass is 13.6 km (8.45 miles) long. It is a steady and grueling climb:
- Elevation Gain: 918 meters.
- Average Gradient: 6.75%.
- Maximum Gradient: Some ramps exceed 12%, testing your engine's cooling system in the Andalusian heat.
Wildlife and Environment
As the name "Buitre" (Vulture) suggests, this area is a sanctuary for large raptors. It is common to see Griffon Vultures and the rare Bearded Vulture (Quebrantahuesos) soaring near the cliffs of Peñón del Toro. Because it is a protected Natural Park, drivers must stay on the main track and respect local livestock.
Best Time to Visit
Avoid mid-summer due to extreme temperatures and high dust levels. The best windows are late spring (when the peaks might still have patches of snow) and autumn. In winter, snow can block the track above 1,800m for several weeks.
Pic: Acusticalennon