Narrow, steep lanes, vineyards and olive groves define San Esteban del Valle. The densely built-up village lies in the Valle del Tiétar on the southern slope of the Sierra de Gredos, in the Barranco de las Cinco Villas and at the foot of the Puerto de Serranillos. The pass connects the barranco with the middle Alberche Valley. For planning your trip, the village’s character, viewpoints, hiking trails and traditional culture come together here.
Views and trails around the village
The Mirador de San Andrés is next to the chapel of the same name; from there, you can look out over San Esteban del Valle and the Sierra de Villarejo. The Mirador de La Llana offers a different view: it is on the road to the Puerto de Serranillos, has parking spaces and offers views down over the village and across the entire barranco. The viewpoints therefore differ mainly in their location and the views they offer.
The hiking trails described in the Barranco de las Cinco Villas are generally short to medium in length and are rated as easy to moderate. Most are marked with signs or colored markings. Check trail conditions before setting out. A specific distance is given for the walking trail Entre San Esteban y Santa Cruz: it is 3 km long. A footpath runs between San Esteban and the Mirador de San Andrés; traffic is light. The SL SEV-3 hiking route also starts and ends in San Esteban del Valle.
Picnic areas and natural water
The Parque de la Chocolatería is a picnic area with parking, barbecue facilities and a natural river pool. Next to the park, on the path to Villarejo, is the Piscina natural de la Garganta. It also has a picnic area and barbecue facilities. The natural pool is seasonal; check local conditions before swimming. Conditions at the Parque de la Chocolatería may also vary by season.
Inscriptions, chapels and local traditions
In the village center, the Ruta de las inscripciones leads to inscriptions and dates, as well as skulls carved in stone. The complete Way of the Cross along the AV-P-706 includes five crosses by the road; the others are around the Ermita de San Andrés. These stations can be paired with a look at the area’s architectural history: the Ermita de San Andrés de La Majada was rebuilt in the 18th century. It houses the image of the Santo Cristo de la Salud, which is carried in procession during Holy Week. The chapel may stand on the site of the church of the now-abandoned village of La Majada.
The Ermita de San Pedro Bautista also has distinctive architectural features: it was built from dressed stone blocks and has a portal with a round arch. El Rollo symbolizes the jurisdictional autonomy the village gained in 1693 when it was granted the title of villa. There is also a stone bridge by the nearby gorge, on the old road from San Esteban to Santa Cruz. This road may have passed through the former settlement of La Majada.
El Vítor is among the recurring festivities. The procession is accompanied by a banner; devotees wear red neckerchiefs and carry torches, and horse riders also take part. Décimas are recited afterward. Details may vary from one edition to another. San Antón is celebrated on January 17 with a procession and the blessing of the traditional Roscas. If you want to plan your trip around this festival, check the annual program.
Wine and olive oil at the Casa del Barato
The Casa del Barato is a traditional working house that was converted into the Centro enológico sensorial del vino y del aceite. The Centro enológico sensorial presents various stages of winemaking: growing the vines, harvesting the grapes, fermentation, and the production and storage of wine. Visitors can also turn the large wooden screw of the wine press. The subject of wine thus complements the walks and heritage sites with a glimpse into the work involved in growing vines and making wine.
Discover more destinations: Umbrías, Barajas, Pajares De Adaja, San Martín Del Pimpollar, Neila De San Miguel, Mombeltrán, Villarejo Del Valle, El Arenal.
For the main travel overview: Avila.
