From The Snail to The Swan

Starting near to Caracoles restaurant, where parking is available at the bottom of the concrete track, this route follows road and track before tackling the steep, stony path to the summit of El Cisne.
After leaving the track beyond the Angustias crossing, where the start of the path is marked by stone cairns, the path quickly ascends along a twisting route of steep and often loose stones, where care should be taken. Occasional cairns and green paint mark the route. On reaching the Sentinel Rock the ground levels for a short distance and this is an obvious resting spot with fine views across towards Venta Panaderos. The path continues rising less steeply amongst pines and at an obvious larger cairn which marks a path junction, take the path on the right which soon fades as it heads into the rocks with the ridge of El Cisne high above. Small cairns help to mark the way on the steep rocky ground. As further height is gained some scrambling is required before the obvious water course is gained which leads onto the scrub and pine clad plateau. The summit of El Cisne is reached by scrambling up the grey limestone rocks - some are loose, so beware!
Return to the plateau and head for the obvious gap between the twin peaks seen clearly from the summit. The path drops steeply amongst loose stones towards a small cave and then swings to the left below the towering rock buttress. Careful observation will determine the route marked by cairns as it heads towards the Collado. Follow the path as it descends through some burned pines (long ago) and loose ground until the cairn marking the upward route is reached. Back track along the path taking care on the steep, loose descent. Beware of tired legs!
Call at the Bar Acebuchal for refreshment on the return.