In Zarra, two circular routes offer different distances and hiking experiences. There are also traces of water engineering, unusual public art and seasonal specialities. You can plan your stay around hiking, cultural heritage or regional cuisine.
Circular Routes for Different Preferences
The PR-CV 463 La Hoz de Zarra is a 12-kilometre circular route with 505 metres of ascent and descent. It starts at Plaza del País Valenciano and passes through Hoz de Abajo, by Casa de Sanjurjo and alongside an old canal. These landmarks provide specific points of reference along the longer route. Check current trail conditions before setting out, as route information may change.
The Ruta del Misterio de la Hoz is the shorter option: a five-kilometre circular route starting in Zarra, with an elevation gain of 185 metres. It is designed as an easy route for children. The route also includes a puzzle: children can find letters hidden behind dwarves and use them to complete a magic phrase.
The routes differ in more than just length. The Ruta del Misterio focuses on its child-friendly design and letter puzzle, while the PR-CV 463 passes named landmarks such as Casa de Sanjurjo and the old canal. Zarra’s riverside landscape is also suitable for walking or cycling. Bear in mind that conditions may vary from one trail to another.
Landscape and Traces of Water Engineering
Some old, now uninhabited houses and the canal network of a former hydroelectric plant remain in Hoz de Zarra. The Bosque Encantado can be reached via the route through Hoz de Zarra; there, trees are decorated with colourful crocheted pieces. Both offer a glimpse of different aspects of the landscape: the built remains of past use and striking artistic decoration.
Presa de los Comuneros is located in the gorge of the River Zarra. It is distinct from the picnic area at Presa de Zarra, which has barbecue grills, a spring and service facilities. As these facilities may change, check locally whether they are available during your visit.
Art, History and Local Life
Reproductions of notable paintings can be seen on walls and façades along Zarra’s Ruta del Arte. These include the Mona Lisa and Las Meninas. The Iglesia de Santa Ana dates back to 1760. Together, these places offer different cultural points of interest, from art in public spaces to a historic church building.
The Las Peñas necropolis is also part of Zarra’s history: in 1983, cremated human remains of ancient Iberians dating from the 5th to 4th centuries BC were discovered there. Zarra’s bell tower is associated with a practice that continues to this day: the bells are still rung by hand. If you want to time your visit to coincide with the ringing, ask locally in advance.
Seasonal Specialities
During the season, visitors to Zarra can enjoy cherries and other gastronomic specialities. Availability depends on the harvest and the date of your visit. If local produce is important to your trip, take the season into account when planning.
Discover more destinations: Mareny Blau, Godelleta, Ademuz, Barx, Genovés, Mogente, Cullera, Piles.
For the main travel overview: Valencia.
