The Senda del Valle del Aliso starts in the town of Cabeza Del Buey and offers two options of different lengths: a circular route of about 15 kilometres and a linear route of about 9 kilometres. The landscape also has its own distinctive character: hiking trails around the town pass through mountain ranges, dehesas and the Extremaduran steppe. The official tourism service offers planned routes in the surrounding area. Check trail conditions before setting off.
Hiking and nature watching
The two versions of the Senda differ both in their route format and approximate length. This can help you plan your time without either route needing to be classified as easier or more challenging. The schematic rock paintings at Cerro Estanislao are dated to more than 5,000 years ago. Local guidance may be required for a visit; check access arrangements in advance.
Seasonal crane watching is another nature-related activity at Castillo de AlmorchĂłn. In December and January, around 4,000 cranes are said to fly over the castle in the morning and evening. Numbers and sightings vary from year to year, so this is not a reliable fixed point for planning a trip.
Architectural history and rock art
In Cabeza Del Buey, architectural history ranges from a small chapel to churches, a convent and historic townhouses. The chapel now known as Ermita de San Roque was built by the Knights Templar in 1240 and is considered the town’s oldest historic building. The parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Armentera, also known as La Divina Pastora, is notable for its Gothic and Renaissance portals and its tower, crowned with glazed amphorae.
The Convento de Concepcionistas Franciscanas was founded by MartĂn Rol. Construction began in 1518, and the convent was inaugurated on 31 May 1523. The described architectural features include an entrance with a dressed-stone arch and a small chapel with worked stone elements. A bust of Christ from the school of Mena has also been preserved. If you would like to visit the interior, check access arrangements beforehand.
In the old town, next to the town hall, is La Posada, also known as Casa de la Audiencia. The historic building has a three-storey stone tower, a large wrought-iron grille and a Renaissance window with a double arch and balcony on the upper floor. For an introduction to rock art, the Centro de InterpretaciĂłn de la Pintura Rupestre de Extremadura offers a different focus: its exhibition rooms cover rock art in general and, in particular, the schematic rock art of Extremadura. Check opening arrangements before visiting.
The Santuario de Nuestra Señora de BelĂ©n is 11 kilometres from Cabeza Del Buey. It is designated as a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de InterĂ©s Cultural) in the Monument category. The complex includes a Romanesque Templar cloister and a Baroque church. The remains of a Roman thermal complex are also nearby, at Puerto de la Nava. The archaeological site lies east of the Arroyo del MojĂłn, a tributary of the RĂo ZĂşjar. Check access arrangements for the sites locally.
More discoveries and practical information
The Aula de la Naturaleza is located in the former schools of La Nava and is dedicated to the study and observation of nature. Its facilities include photographs, information panels and audiovisual rooms. Ask about opening arrangements before visiting. Gastroexperiencia Quesos Reborto offers a different way to explore the region: it includes a visit to a cave, an explanation of the cheese-maturing process and a tasting of five types of cheese with a drink. Booking conditions and availability may change. The Centro Ecuestre «Entrevarales» offers horse rides in nature; confirm your booking and operating conditions in advance.
For rail travel, there is a station in Barriada Estación. Check current train services with the operator. The Municipal Park has a children’s recreation area, sports facilities, leisure and quiet areas, and event spaces; individual facilities may change.
Discover more destinations: Helechosa De Los Montes, Orellana La Vieja, Granja de Torrehermosa, La Roca De La Sierra, Segura De LeĂłn, La Bazana, Malpartida de la Serena, Navalvillar De Pela.
For the broader travel overview: Badajoz.
