Jarilla: Nature Trails, Water and Architectural History

Jarilla offers a range of options to consider when planning a stay: trails along a former railway line, a natural bathing spot at the Garganta Perdida and historic buildings. This gives you different ways to explore the area, whether you are interested in hiking and cycling, the waterside landscape or architectural history.

Camino Natural Vía de la Plata

The Plasencia–Jarilla section of the Camino Natural Vía de la Plata follows the route of the former Plasencia–Astorga railway line, also known as Palazuelo–Astorga. It runs from Plasencia to the municipal boundary between Jarilla and Casas del Monte. The former railway line determines the route; most of the section follows a firm, wide surface.

The section is considered fairly easy and safe for hikers and cyclists. Check local conditions before setting out. Near the Embalse de la Jarilla, the Camino Natural passes beneath the A-66. The reservoir is also known as the Embalse de Cabezaolí.

Bathing Spot and Waterside Landscape

Southeast of the town center, there is a natural bathing spot on the Garganta Perdida, approximately 500 meters from the center. A municipal concrete path connects it directly to the town center; its width varies between 2.5 and 4.5 meters. On the right bank, it includes a recreational area of around 179 square meters.

The bathing spot is located on a rocky mountain watercourse with a steep gradient both lengthwise and across its width. Here, constructed infrastructure meets a pronounced natural terrain. When planning, you can consider these two aspects separately: the concrete path and recreational area on the one hand, and the rocky bank and steep watercourse on the other.

The Embalse de la Jarilla is used for irrigation. Various waterbirds can be seen there, including gulls, ducks and cormorants. The two waterside locations therefore have different focal points: at the Garganta Perdida, the bathing spot, recreational area and terrain take center stage; at the reservoir, irrigation and the possibility of birdwatching are defining features.

Church and Ancient Temple Remains

The Iglesia de San Gregorio Magno is considered Jarilla’s most important monument. Construction began in the 16th century and continued into the 17th century. The church was rebuilt in 1852, as attested by an inscription on its façade. The construction dates and inscription give the church a clearly traceable historical chronology.

An older historical trace can be found on Cerro de Piedraslabradas, where the remains of an ancient Roman temple have survived. Only the cella, the inner room, remains of the temple. Compared with the church, these temple remains point to Roman antiquity; the church is notable for its construction from the 16th to the 17th century and its rebuilding in 1852.

Walks and Getting There

Jarilla offers peaceful walks through chestnut, oak and cork oak forests. Heather, strawberry trees and broom grow among the woodland. This lets you explore the landscape beyond the historic buildings and the Camino Natural: the trees and other plant life offer a distinct focus for travelers who enjoy walking.

Jarilla can be reached via a turnoff from the N-630. When choosing where to stay, you can consider the journey and the different local attractions together: the Camino Natural section, the waterside landscape at the Garganta Perdida, walks through woodland and scrub, and architectural history each offer something different.

Discover more destinations: Valdastillas, La Aceña De La Borrega, Cañamero, Villamiel, Monroy, Talayuela, Plasencia, Cabezabellosa

For the broader travel overview: Cáceres.