Bathing in Extremaduran waters: interior sweetness
Located northeast of the province of Cáceres and sheltered by the Tormantos and Gredos mountain ranges , is found the Jerte Valley , a wonderful region full of tradition and nature . Although it is its cherry blossoms that have made its springs world famous, the valley, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest , offers infinite proposals and prints at any time of the year.
In summer, the trees, protagonists of its staggered landscapes, no longer wear cherries. Many are sold in the basements and warehouses of** Navaconcejo, Jerte or Cabezuela del Valle**; more than enough excuse to come to the area at this time and enjoy the best of its flavors.
The Jerte River meanders between the charming villages becoming the great ally to cope with the extreme embarrassment thanks to the pools it draws in its path. among all the fabulous baths of the region , those of the pylons they are the most precious. They are located in the Hells Gorge Nature Reserve , belonging to the Network of Protected Natural Areas of Extremadura , and they are made up of pools molded in the stone by the erosion of water in the form of gigantic natural bathtubs.
Los Pilones, Caceres
To take a dip in them it will be necessary forget about the car, since its access is prohibited . Walking is our irresistible proposal to enjoy them as it deserves, although in the reserve they also make available to visitors 4x4 routes to discover its corners.
The itinerary starts at Interpretation Center , located next to the road that runs through the valley, three kilometers from Cabezuela . It is advisable to start it early to avoid the hottest hours. Also, arriving early will ensure safe access, as this year a capacity limitation of 150 people has been imposed.
Do it in a circular way, ascending a path to the vegetation shelter and returning along a forest track, it is a highly recommended option to avoid crossing paths with people. The linear trail path has a length of about 3 kilometers each way , although it can last up to 16 kilometers to get to know in depth the interior of the reserve . It starts at the same point and is marked in yellow and white. Along the way they accompany streams and streams that give way to waterfalls and waterfalls.
Los Pilones, Caceres
The varied vegetation of the area is favored by the altitude, which ranges between 300 and 2,300 meters. The highest levels are marked by the summits of Cuerda de los Infiernillos, Cerro del Estecillo and Castifrío alpine grasslands abounding among them. On the contrary, next to the water, it is the ash and willow trees that add their green touch. Deciduous trees such as oaks, chestnuts, strawberry trees are also common in the reserve. and of course the Cherry trees.
Before you get to the pylons , a detour leads to the Chorrero de la Virgen viewpoint , from which a particularly exuberant waterfall can be seen after abundant rains. In it you can even see birds of prey. One more gift from the Hells Gorge!
REACHED THE SKY IN LOS PILONES
The entire reservation is based on a large block of granite rock that is over 200 million years old . The agitated waters of the thaw rush through a large part of it, drawing gorges and giving rise to the great treasure of the reserve, and of the region, the Los Pilones natural pools , also known as Giant's Pots.
Between his different heights run fresh and crystal clear waters where taking a bath is essential. Los Pilones are located in the middle section of the Garganta de los Infiernos , and to climb to the highest pool you will have to access by a wooden bridge that leads to a path over the pool yes Choosing one will be the most complicated step of all. Why not try them all?
The vegetation that grows between the rocks, gives bathers appetizing shadows on which to take placid naps. All around, the majestic mountains populated with vegetation protect this wonderful summer treasure to which little is missing to touch the sky.
Hells Gorge