Barajas combines named hiking routes with traces of rural heritage. The Ruta 1 Piedra Aguda and the Ruta 5 Las Chorreras highlight different aspects of the landscape; in the village, the Iglesia de San Benito Abad, a Potro de Herrar and a forge tell the story of architectural and craft traditions. Barajas is also associated with the Sierra de Gredos Regional Park. When planning a stay, you can distinguish between the character of the routes and the specific buildings, and give each focus the importance that suits your interests.

Hiking between Barajas and Navarredonda de Gredos

The Ruta 1 Piedra Aguda connects Barajas with Navarredonda de Gredos. It starts in Barajas and from there heads towards Fuente de los Cazos. The route is considered easy and accessible, although trail conditions may vary by season. Check them before setting out. Piedra Aguda is at an altitude of 1,816 metres and offers views of the surrounding landscape.

The Ruta 5 Las Chorreras also connects Navarredonda de Gredos and Barajas. It passes through the southern part of the municipality; on the return, it follows the Arroyo de Mesegoso to Barajas. Las Chorreras is characterised by numerous small cascades of crystal-clear water.

The routes have different features to consider when choosing: the Ruta 1 is considered easy and accessible and heads towards Fuente de los Cazos; the Ruta 5 offers different landmarks, with its southern route, cascades and return along the Arroyo de Mesegoso.

Church and rural heritage

The Iglesia de San Benito Abad in Barajas is a parish church dating from the 14th century. Its interior is divided into three longitudinal naves separated by wooden columns. The term “naves” refers to these areas of the church interior. The bell tower has two sections and an external staircase. The interior layout and the structure of the tower are two clearly distinct architectural features. These specific details offer a cultural focus during a stay in Barajas.

Next to the church is a Potro de Herrar in front of a forge; an old bellows still stands inside the forge. The Potro is no longer in use, consists of four stone legs and has a kind of yoke at the front. These details complement the sacred architecture with a distinct rural building and material culture.

Transhumance and local legend

Rural tradition is reflected in more than just buildings. Transhumance refers to the seasonal movement of livestock between grazing areas; the tradition is still practised in Navarredonda and Barajas. Some livestock farmers still follow it in the traditional way, rather than transporting the animals by truck. According to a local legend, the Ermita de San Antonio Abad was built between Navarredonda and Barajas to house a statue of the saint.

Discover more destinations

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For the main travel overview: Avila.