The best running trails around Santa Cruz Del Valle

This village is located in the Sierra de Gredos mountains (Ávila) and is famous for its natural surroundings, the Castle of Constable Dávalos, the Mosquera Palace, and the Eagle Caves. It is also ideal for hiking and rural tourism.

Stone houses with balconies. One of the jewels of Gredos.

In addition to its extensive heritage, Arenas de San Pedro is a tourist attraction for its famous Eagle Caves, discovered in 1963 and located six kilometers from the town. In its town center, highlights include the Castle of the Triste Condesa, with its large Keep; the 16th-century Gothic Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, with its splendid bell tower; and the palace of Infante Don Luis de Borbón. Also a must-see is the 16th-century Sanctuary of San Pedro de Alcántara, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1972. Located three kilometers from Arenas, it was renovated in the 18th century following the directives of architect Ventura Rodríguez, who built a magnificent funerary chapel. A thornless rosebush grows in the sanctuary's garden, which, according to legend, is a miraculous work of Saint Peter of Alcántara. The Royal Chapel Museum displays interesting collections of liturgical goldsmithing.

The Puerto del Pico with its viewing point is one of the classics of the Sierra de Gredos, used frequently in the routes of the Vuelta a España. The viewing point offers beautiful views of the Valle del Barranco or Valle de las Cinco Villas. You can also see the layout of the old Roman road that also went up this valley to access the upper part of the Iberian plateau. The road that goes up to the Puerto del Pico on its southern slope is in perfect condition as it is the national road N-502. It is a fast road so you have to be very careful with cars, especially on holidays and vacations.

Be careful after passing the monastery, do not miss the sign for La Cruz.

The castle was built in the 15th century by order of the constable Rui López Dávalos. It is the oldest monument in Arenas de San Pedro, and its construction spans from the end of the 14th century to the beginning of the 15th century. 😊🏰

You should definitely stop at the Puerto de Pico pass at an altitude of 1,352 m. There are enough parking spaces. There is also a restaurant on site. The views are spectacular and with a little luck you can see Iberian ibex up here.

Located on the southern slope of the Gredos mountain range and in the heart of the Tiétar valley, Cuevas del Valle is one of the most beautiful towns in this mountain range, although it is not as renowned as others. And in this town of medieval origin there are still excellent examples of the traditional architecture of the area and an outstanding historical-artistic heritage that is very well preserved.