Belmonte has recently welcomed a hiking event aimed at individuals aged over 60, organised by the Government of Castilla-La Mancha as part of its active ageing initiatives. The event saw the participation of 259 individuals from Belmonte, Tarancón, Huete, and Almonacid del Marquesado in the province of Cuenca, as well as from Campo de Criptana and Tomelloso in Ciudad Real.
Following the hike, participants enjoyed a communal meal at the Hospedería Palacio del Infante Don Juan Manuel and took part in a cultural visit to explore Belmonte's rich heritage.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Marian López, the regional delegate in Cuenca; Susana Zomeño, the delegate for Social Welfare; and Cristina Delgado, the mayor of Belmonte. Marian López emphasised the importance of these programmes in promoting health from a holistic perspective. She stated, "Physical activity helps prevent health issues, but we also want to care for the emotional well-being of older adults. Sharing a day, socialising, discovering new places, and enjoying new experiences fosters community and helps prevent something we have been increasingly concerned about in recent years: unwanted loneliness."
Susana Zomeño highlighted that such hiking events also stimulate activity in the host municipalities and their surrounding areas. She noted, "The organisation of these gatherings allows for the engagement of transport companies and the utilisation of local hospitality services and commerce. Therefore, in addition to promoting active ageing, we can say that these programmes contribute to boosting the local economy."
This year, six hiking routes will be held across the province, with an expected participation of around 1,500 older adults. The final autumn hike is scheduled to take place in Minglanilla.
