It is in the silence and energy of nature that I find a unique space in which to admire the wonders of the world, and when I discover a new viewpoint, those wonders unfold before my eyes.
A while ago, whilst exploring the map, which is my great friend for discovering new places full of nature and peace, I found a new forest park called Hacienda Clavero. I remember it took me quite a while to find the entrance, because the map, for example, told me I was in the right place, but there were no paths there, so I had to walk quite a distance to find the spot.
But that whole journey helped me learn more about the area, get to know the neighbourhood where this 11-hectare forest park is located, and visit new places. I have a very good visual memory, so when I walk a path and pay attention, I hardly ever forget it. It’s like a huge map forming in my head that grows day by day.
Upon entering the park and seeing the map there, which contained quite a lot of information, on my first visit, I realised there were too many paths and that it would be impossible to cover the entire park in a single day. Above all, because I wanted to explore it at a leisurely pace, paying attention to my surroundings and connecting with nature.
Sometimes, and this is one of those times, my mum comes along on these sorts of visits, mainly because I need to get some exercise and I like her to see new places. For many people, including my friend Loli, I’ve been like a guide around the city, which I love, because I come to love the places I visit and I love it when more people get to know them. On this trip I went with my mum; she was excited to reach the viewpoint, as it’s quite a steep climb, but with my help she managed it, though I don’t want to get ahead of myself.
When I visit a new place, I always take photos of the maps because, although I can then use Google Maps to find my way, I find it more important to follow the signposted map of the park itself; it has important details, paths that aren’t shown everywhere, and interesting signposts.
Almost all the city’s forest parks are set in hilly terrain, quite high up, and reforestation has been carried out, mainly with pine trees, to protect the city from potential rainfall, rain that, in the past, when there wasn’t enough vegetation, caused problems for the buildings. I really like the fact that the city always maintains these parks and keeps them in such good condition, protecting the local flora and fauna.
Above all, I saw the Aleppo pine, but also carob trees and a few others. What I couldn’t see were animals like chameleons, though I did spot some birds and could hear them too.
I was telling you about that connection with nature, and the fact that there was no one else there made it easier to enjoy it; at least when I’m on my own, I enjoy natural spaces so much more, the sounds of nature, the way every step sounds different, every bird’s song, every breeze rustling through the leaves. It’s wonderful.
I followed the path marked on the map to reach the viewpoint located in the centre of the forest park, right at the heart and highest point of the park. Every step taken, every zigzagging path I walked was worth it; I can assure you of that.
I couldn’t see the viewpoint from a distance, because the paths kept winding; this is so you can climb the slope without it feeling too steep. I think that’s why the paths wind their way around the area until you reach it. And on my walk I spotted many other paths that crossed the main one; I think they also lead to wonderful places and views. But on this occasion I had a goal, and I was happy that my mum was climbing with me, very carefully, because the small stones are slippery, but we had good footwear.
As we reached the viewpoint area, although there was still quite a way to go, I could see some benches with picnic tables in the distance. And when I saw this, I still didn’t realise that the viewpoint was very, very close by.
I made my way there, constantly looking around me, something I do all the time, because there was so much greenery and such beauty that I wanted to take it all in, not just with my eyes or my phone, but especially with my heart. Now I have this wonderful opportunity to be in a place full of greenery and natural spaces, and I’m so grateful to life for it; I want to enjoy it to the full. That’s why I walk slowly, step by step, feeling the emotions that arise in every moment.
I reached the area with the benches; there were plenty of them, here and there, some in the shade and others in the sun. There was something for everyone, and there wasn’t even anyone there. Perfect. It’s not that I’m a loner, although I often enjoy that solitude which allows me to reflect, but rather that in the silence I enjoy things more, without any noise around me.
There was also a fairly large area in the park dedicated to a children’s playground, with lovely, large play equipment scattered throughout the area. I looked around and saw that further on there were paved areas, and it was there, looking up, that I could see the viewing point.
That children’s playground was very close to it, but safe enough for anyone to lean on the logs without falling, and above all, the area was protected for the children who might go to that playground.
I stopped for a moment, sat down with my mum on a bench and we had a little picnic, taking a breather from the climb and the long walk of about an hour. And whilst she sat there resting peacefully, I went up to the viewpoint and was treated to some wonderful views.
Before me lay the Mediterranean Sea; although I can see it from the various forest parks I’ve visited, every view is different, offering a new perspective. In the distance was the city centre, and all around me was the El Limonar neighbourhood with its beautiful buildings. A dreamlike place.
The viewpoint is, as I mentioned, in the centre of the park, so there are very tall trees and pines, which made the view through them even more magical.
My mother wanted to go up; she is 72 years old, and every new place is a challenge, but also a great achievement. Holding her arm and supporting her firmly so that every step was steady, I helped her reach the top. That was very moving.
The emotions and experiences are what make every new place so special, and this one certainly has been.
Thank you very much for joining me on this new exploration; I send my warmest regards to you all. See you soon.
Amonet.
All photographs are my own.
Separators created by me in Photoshop.
Used translator Deepl.com free version.
//:# (!worldmappin 36.729942 lat -4.392686 long Hacienda Clavero Viewpoint – Contemplation and natural wonder 📷 Málaga – Spain d3scr)
