Herrera De Alcántara: Nature, Trails and Cultural Heritage

Nature, Trails and Local History

For a trip to Herrera De Alcántara, you can choose from a range of options focused on nature, trails, local history and regional cuisine. The activities also differ in the planning details provided: a boat trip lasts two hours, while several trails specify their starting point, route or destination.

Protected River Landscape

The Rivera Aurela is designated as a Site of Community Importance (LIC) and a Special Conservation Area (ZEC), forms part of the Natura 2000 network and lies within the Parque Natural del Tajo Internacional. Herrera De Alcántara is also home to the ZEPA Río Tajo Internacional y Riberos. Black storks, griffon vultures, eagles, kingfishers and otters can be spotted there. The Ruta Cedillo – Herrera de Alcántara boat trip passes through the landscape of the Parque Natural del Tajo Internacional, with yellow irises, black storks, griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures and Spanish imperial eagles.

Boat Trip and Trails

The Ruta Cedillo – Herrera de Alcántara boat trip lasts two hours and can be taken at any time of year. As both the duration and seasonal operation should be confirmed with the operator, it is advisable to check before your trip. The Ruta botánica de Mari Loza can be walked from Calleja de Mari Loza in Herrera De Alcántara. The associated landing stage can be reached on foot or by vehicle via the road. When planning, take the conditions of the trail and road into account, as they can change.

The SL-CC 136 hiking trail, approved by FEDME, starts on the road by the Tajo. It passes Fuente de la Pizarra, dating from 1400, the Pasaderas, the Cotillo path and the Gándara, and ends at Puente Viejo del Cabrioso. Stage 42 runs from Santiago de Alcántara to Herrera de Alcántara. When planning, note that the routes differ in their stated endpoints and, in the case of the boat trip, its duration.

Dolmens and Church

The Dolmen de Bodegas has a circular chamber just over two metres in diameter. A tumulus measuring around 20 metres in diameter is also partially preserved at the same dolmen. These measurements refer to different structures: the chamber and the tumulus. The Dolmen Cerro Caldera still has a visible passage and is located on private land. On the village square stands the Iglesia de San Sebastián Mártir, an 18th-century church built of masonry.

Cuisine and Festival Traditions

The cuisine of Herrera De Alcántara preserves its traditions. These include pork and lamb dishes, Iberian cured meats, cheese, honey and traditional sweets. Which of these foods are available may vary. The Matanza Hispano-Lusa takes place every year on the Saturday of Carnival. It is a traditional festival celebrating community, gastronomy and culture, held together with the neighbours from Malpica do Tejo. Check the exact festival dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Fresnedoso De Ibor, Monroy, Navas Del Madroño, Talayuela, Cañamero, Guijo De Santa Bárbara, Madrigal De La Vera, Santiago De Alcántara

For the overview of the wider region: Cáceres.