When planning a stay in La Granja, three main themes stand out: the seasonal swimming area in the Río Ambroz riverbed, the town’s cultural and historical landmarks, and the surrounding Dehesa landscape. The time of year is therefore an important consideration, particularly if swimming is to be a highlight of your stay. The church, archaeological site and Roman milestone offer different ways to explore the town’s history.
Swimming in the Río Ambroz riverbed
The Piscina Natural de La Granja is located in the Río Ambroz riverbed. It operates as a swimming area during the summer season, and also has a picnic area and a bar, or chiringuito. Access is free, with no admission charge. If swimming is the main focus of your visit, the season matters: before travelling, check whether the swimming area will be operating on your travel dates and whether the access arrangements are still in effect. Swimming, the picnic area and the bar are the different facilities available at this location.
Cultural history in the town
The Herradero de caballos
The Herradero de caballos is an archaeological heritage site. Its remains date from the 16th century and are part of a historic horseshoeing site. It brings together two aspects: its archaeological significance and the specific purpose the site once served. In this way, the Herradero complements the town’s religious architectural history with a different kind of historical evidence.
The Parish Church of Santa María Magdalena
The Parish Church of Santa María Magdalena is La Granja’s most distinctive religious building. Built of masonry between the 16th and 18th centuries, it houses a Baroque main altarpiece. Its construction and furnishings offer different points of interest: the church combines a building history spanning several centuries with a specific example of Baroque design. Those interested in the town’s history will find both an architectural and an art-historical point of reference here.
The milestone of the Vía de la Plata
The Roman milestone of the Vía de la Plata is another aspect of the town’s history. It was moved to La Granja as a reminder of the Roman presence in the region. The milestone highlights the Roman presence, while the Herradero focuses on the site’s former use for shoeing horses. These are two distinct historical connections.
Dehesa landscape and circular walk
Around La Granja, typical Mediterranean Dehesa woodland, with holm oaks and cork oaks, grows at the foot of the Sierra de Cruces Altas. This adds a distinct landscape experience to the town’s cultural and historical attractions. A straightforward circular walk called “Circular La Granja” follows irrigation paths and starts and ends at the municipal pavilion. Check the trail conditions before setting out.
Getting there and planning your trip
La Granja is accessible via the EX-205 regional road. If you are looking for a holiday rental in La Granja, the time of year may be an important factor if swimming matters to you: the Piscina Natural operates as a swimming area only during the summer season. Also decide whether you would prefer to focus your stay on the town’s history or the surrounding Dehesa landscape.
Discover more destinations: Baños De Montemayor, Membrío, Tejeda De Tiétar, La Garganta, Serrejón, Plasenzuela, San Martín De Trevejo, Valencia De Alcantara
For the wider travel guide: Cáceres.
