Discover Alarcia

Alarcia combines Romanesque architecture, hiking trails and protected natural areas. Two routes of different lengths and difficulty levels provide practical guidance when choosing a destination. Other features include a church outside the town centre, opportunities to spot wildlife, regional dishes and a seasonal mushroom-picking option.

Culture and churches

The Romanesque church of Alarcia dates from the 12th century. Its portal has three archivolts decorated with primitive geometric motifs. For travellers interested in Romanesque architecture, these details on the portal offer a specific point of interest.

The church, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is located outside the town centre. It is not used for religious services and is in a state of partial disrepair. As its condition may change, check the current situation before visiting.

Hiking trails by route profile

The Ruta de los Pagos runs through the northern part of Alarcia. The route is 7.5 km long, easy and suitable for all groups. It provides access to three natural viewpoints. A detour of around 150 m leads to the Cabeza del Buitre promontory. From there, you can see Pico Trigaza and the La Tejera and La Genciana streams.

The Ruta de La Genciana is just over 17 km long and of moderate difficulty. It crosses the Ebro and Duero river basins and is approved by FEDME as the short-distance hiking trail PRC-BU-84. The two routes are easy to distinguish from their descriptions: the shorter, easy Ruta de los Pagos contrasts with the longer, moderately difficult Ruta de La Genciana.

Landscape, protected areas and wildlife

Pico Trigaza is 2,034 m high and the second-highest peak in the province of Burgos. The southern part of Alarcia, known as “La Reserva”, lies entirely within the Natura 2000 network and the Sierra de la Demanda Special Protection Area for Birds.

Vultures, eagles and roe deer can be spotted in Alarcia’s protected habitats; during the rut, red deer may also be seen. If you are especially interested in red deer, take the rutting season into account when planning your trip.

Local cuisine and seasonal activities

The Cantina de Alarcia serves typical dishes from the Sierra de la Demanda. These include Olla Podrida, various game dishes and locally produced meat. Check the latest details of the menu before your trip.

There are two mushroom-picking areas in Alarcia. During the season, you can pick mushrooms there after obtaining the required permit. The season and permit are important conditions to bear in mind when planning.

Annual festival and public transport

Alarcia’s patron saint festival in honour of Saint Bartholomew takes place on 24 August and is moved to the nearest weekend if necessary. If the festival is a reason for your trip, check the exact event date in advance.

Alarcia is a stop on the provincial administration of Burgos’s demand-responsive rural MAR public transport service. As operating arrangements may change, check the latest service information before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Zazuar, Carcedo de Burgos, Villalmóndar, Poza De La Sal, Los Tomillares, Villagonzalo-Pedernales, Soncillo, La Puebla De Arganzón

Go to the main travel overview: Burgos.