The Garganta de Alardos is central to Madrigal de la Vera’s natural appeal: natural pools lie within the municipality, and the Ruta de Romartín passes through a varied landscape. There is also a Roman bridge, historic details in the town and festivals featuring music and regional products. You can plan your stay around your interests, with a focus on nature, architectural history or festive culture.
Water and Landscape at the Garganta
The Garganta de Alardos is a group of natural pools within the municipality of Madrigal de la Vera. Well-known bathing spots include Los Maquis, La Caldera, El Rubioso, La Paloma, El Negro, El Cardenillo and La Piscina, also known as Puente Viejo. Water conditions at each spot may vary by season. Alder and ash trees grow along the banks of the Garganta, which flows into the Río Tiétar.
If you prefer to explore the surroundings on a route, the Ruta de Romartín (PR-CC 82) is an easy, 11-kilometre circular trail. It starts at the Fuente del Cabrero and passes the Puente Romano, a natural pool and the Fuentes de Alardos. Along the way, a long alder avenue alternates with scrubland featuring rockrose, lavender, heather and occasional juniper trees. Views include rocky peaks, the Rosarito Reservoir and the valley of the Río Tiétar. The route is intended for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. Signage and access may change; check these conditions before setting out.
Roman Bridge and Local History
The Puente Romano de Madrigal de la Vera, also called Puente Viejo, formed part of the Roman road connecting Plasencia with Puerto del Pico and Ávila. The stone bridge stands high above the waters of the Garganta de Alardos. At present, at least one large arch is described, and a sealed opening can be seen at the side. From the bridge, views extend across the Sierra de Gredos and the valley of the Río Tiétar—a striking meeting of architecture and landscape.
The parish church of Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol also combines historical significance with specific architectural details: it is considered a monument of historic interest. On its Epistle side is a portal with a basket-handle arch, decorative bosses and small Gothic columns. The church also preserves a 16th-century stone baptismal font.
The central square of Madrigal de la Vera is considered the town’s most characteristic and best-preserved square; the Fuente de los Perales is nearby. Another fountain, the Fuente de los 6 caños, is located in Plaza Machadero. Before piped water was introduced, it was a gathering place for local residents. The two fountains offer different points of interest if you would like to learn about public spaces and their former significance while exploring the town.
Festivals, Music and Regional Cuisine
EnTREVECINOS/AS is an annual festival of folk culture in Madrigal de la Vera, usually held on the first weekend in June. Its recurring programme includes participatory workshops on castanets, percussion and jotas. The festival also features food trails and tastings of products from La Vera, including cheese and Pitarra wine. If you plan your trip around this festival, check the dates and programme for the relevant edition.
The Fiesta de las Luminarias takes place on the evening of 7 December. Residents gather around large fires spread throughout the town to celebrate the Immaculate Conception. Festive traditions also include tastings of products from the traditional slaughter season, as well as singing and dancing to typical jotas from La Vera. Annual details may vary from one edition to another. The Fiestas del Cristo Chico also offer a seasonal point of reference: they take place on the first weekend in August, with musical performances and activities; the programme may vary from year to year.
Another date on the festive calendar is the Procesión del Encuentro, held on the night of Holy Saturday and considered one of the outstanding processions of Holy Week. These dates—from the usual June weekend to the December evening—can help you plan your stay around the festival that interests you most. If you would rather focus on the landscape and local history, the Garganta de Alardos, the Ruta de Romartín and the historic buildings offer other focal points for planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Riolobos, Losar De La Vera, La Granja, Piornal, Torre De Santa María, Valdelacasa de Tajo, Montehermoso, Cambrón.
For the wider travel overview: Cáceres.
