The Inglares shapes Berganzo in two ways: it flows through the town, dividing it into two areas, and also defines the riverside landscape with small rapids and waterfalls. Other highlights include the Ruta del Agua circular trail, the hydroelectric power station and the Iglesia de San Miguel. Nature, the history of technology and architecture are distinct themes here.
Riverside scenery and trails
As it descends from Peñacerrada to Berganzo, the Inglares drops 200 metres in elevation over a stretch of less than five kilometres. This creates small rapids and waterfalls. In the town, the river flows all the way through Berganzo, dividing the settlement into two areas. The descent between Peñacerrada and Berganzo is marked by its elevation change and water features; within the town itself, the river’s course shapes the layout of the settlement.
A trail from Berganzo’s town centre leads to the Cascada de las Herrerías waterfall. The Ruta del Agua de Berganzo is a family-friendly circular trail. It starts at the visitor car park in town and follows the Inglares through wooded areas with waterfalls and various river formations. The trail from the town centre leads to the Cascada; for the Ruta del Agua, its circular route, starting point at the visitor car park and course along the river provide the way to go. This gives visitors two distinct options: a specific waterfall destination and a circular trail featuring several riverside landscapes.
Water as a part of natural and technological history
The Berganzo hydroelectric power station was built in 1897 by Sociedad Electro Hidráulica Alavesa and is still in operation. The year marks its construction, while its operational status describes its present condition. As this may change, check before travelling. On the return leg of the Ruta del Agua, the trail runs alongside an old water channel built to supply the power station. Thus, the natural riverside landscape is complemented by a specific story of technical infrastructure.
A look at the building’s history
The Iglesia de San Miguel was built in the 16th century using the remains of a building erected by the Sarmiento family. An ogival arch, three windows and a loophole have been preserved from it. This brings together two building phases: the church dates from the 16th century, while the features mentioned were incorporated from the older building. The ogival arch describes the shape of a structural element; the windows and loophole are openings in the building. These details bring the building’s history to life and offer a different focus from the riverside landscape and hydroelectric power.
Getting there and choosing where to stay
For travel by road, take the N-124 and then the A-3126 towards Zambrana and Santa Cruz del Fierro.
If you’re looking for hotels in Berganzo, you can choose the town based on your interests: the river and Ruta del Agua offer nature, while the power station and Iglesia de San Miguel offer a glimpse into the history of technology and architecture. Before searching, consider which of these sides of Berganzo you’d like to shape your stay.
For the broader travel overview: Zambrana.
