Easy hikes and walks around Embalse Rosarito

Candeleda is a charming village in the province of Ávila, in the Sierra de Gredos, known for its natural beauty and rich history. Candeleda is a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway full of outdoor activities.

Without a doubt, this is one of the great discoveries of our trip to the Sierra de Gredos. Although it is not a renowned architectural monument, the Sanctuary is worth visiting for its location, its views, the interesting climb from Candeleda by bicycle and the pleasant walk that can be taken in its surroundings.

This small hermitage, built in the 16th and 17th centuries, is located in an environment of lush vegetation and beauty. Inside, the miracle of the Virgin of Chilla, the patron saint of Candeleda, is narrated on panels. The festivities in honor of the Virgin of Chilla, declared of National Tourist Interest, are celebrated on the second and third weekend of September. The sanctuary is located 6 km from Candeleda and offers magnificent panoramic views of the Rosarito Reservoir and the sky. Legend has it that the Virgin appeared to a shepherd named Finardo, who had lost a goat due to eating weeds. The Virgin resurrected the goat, and since then, it has always been represented that way. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this place, you will be immersed in a spiritual and tranquil experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. 🌿🌟

The Old Bridge of Candeleda is a beautiful bridge that stands over the Santa María Gorge. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, this neo-Mudejar style bridge is a centuries-old testimony of local architecture. From here, you can walk along what they call the “maritime promenade”, a place perfectly equipped for walking.

Legend has it that the Virgin of Chilla appeared to shepherd Finardo, resurrecting one of his goats, which had died from eating spoiled herbs. In exchange, he asked him to erect a hermitage in his honor. Since then, we find here the hermitage dedicated to this Virgin, patron saint of Candeleda, and whose celebration has been declared a tourist site of regional interest.

This four-arch bridge crosses the Santa María gorge as it passes through Candeleda. Although it may seem older, it is actually from the beginning of the 20th century. XX, since it had to be built to replace the one made of wood. The old one was in very poor condition due to the force carried by the waters of the gorge, especially during the time of thaw.

In this roundabout in Candeleda we can find this monument, which honors the mountain goat, also called Hispanic goat, without a doubt the queen of this mountain range. The work is from 1980.

This fountain, located about 3 kilometers from the town of Candeleda if we are going up the path that enters the Regional Park, is an ideal point to take a short break and stock up on water for the rest of the route.