The area was a major iron mining settlement from 1899 until 1968, housing over 2,000 residents at its peak.
Original stone buildings from the mining era have been preserved and repurposed within the camping grounds.
The location is situated on the slopes of the Sierra de los Filabres, the largest mountain range in the province of Almería.
The site remains one of the coldest points in Almería during winter, occasionally experiencing snowfall.
The mining site used a cable railway system to transport ore down to the Serón train station during its industrial operation.
Camping Las Menas is located at the former site of the Las Menas iron mines in the Sierra de los Filabres mountains of Almería, Spain. The facility occupies an altitude of 1,500 meters, providing a distinctive high-mountain environment within a Mediterranean climate. It serves as a base for visitors exploring the rugged landscape of the Filabres range and the surrounding forested terrain. The site features bungalows and pitches set among pine trees, maintaining the architectural footprint of the original 19th-century mining colony. The surrounding area is part of a reforestation project that has reclaimed land previously stripped by industrial activity. The park offers proximity to hiking trails that lead toward the Calar Alto Observatory. It is uniquely positioned as a gateway to the 'pueblos blancos' of the Alpujarra Almeriense. The landscape is characterized by its geological history and its role as one of the few high-altitude temperate retreats in the province.
The elevated viewing point overlooking the original stone houses against the backdrop of the pine forests.
Bring layers for clothing even in summer, as the 1,500-meter altitude causes significant temperature drops at night.
Check road conditions for the A-1178 before arrival, as mountain roads can be narrow and winding.
Carry offline maps as mobile signal can be unreliable within the deep valleys of the Sierra de los Filabres.
Attempting to explore abandoned, unstable mine shafts or ruins outside the designated perimeter.
Operations can be seasonal; contact the facility to confirm winter availability due to potential high-altitude weather closures.
Respect quiet hours during the night to maintain the peaceful mountain environment.