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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Spain
La Rioja
Rioja Baja
Herce

Herce Castle and El Salvador Hermitage Trail

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Spain
La Rioja
Rioja Baja
Herce

Herce Castle and El Salvador Hermitage Trail

Easy

5.0

(2)

9

hikers

Herce Castle and El Salvador Hermitage Trail

01:15

4.24km

130m

Hiking

Hike an easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) trail to Herce Castle and Peña El Salvador viewpoint in La Rioja, gaining 423 feet (129 metres).

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Get Directions

1

397 m

Yasa Valera

Highlight (Segment) • Cave

Stretch up and down to the castle, parallel to the riverbed.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

2

1.86 km

Peña El Salvador

Highlight • Viewpoint

It costs little to reach it from the track that goes to the castle. Good views of the castle

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3

2.24 km

Herce Castle

Highlight • Castle

Castle built around the year 1200 taking advantage of a previous Islamic fortification. Strategically located with a great view of the middle valley of the Cidacos river, the Serbian fortification …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4

2.26 km

El Salvador Hermitage

Highlight • Religious Site

Right next to the castle of Herce.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

B

4.24 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.20 km

715 m

291 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.74 km

1.17 km

953 m

291 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Tuesday 26 May

33°C

15°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to complete the Ascent to Peña El Salvador and the castle of Hence trail?

This easy hiking route is approximately 4.2 kilometers long and generally takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your pace and how much time you spend at the viewpoints and highlights.

Where does the trail start, and is there parking available?

The Komoot tour typically starts near the Herce Castle. While specific parking details aren't provided, trails leading to castles often have designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most accurate parking information.

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, with an 'easy' difficulty rating and an elevation gain of around 129 meters, this route is well-suited for beginners and families. The relatively short distance and moderate ascent make it an enjoyable outdoor activity for most fitness levels.

What are the main points of interest along the route?

The trail features several interesting highlights. You'll pass by the Yasa Valera cave, reach the scenic Peña El Salvador viewpoint, explore the historic Herce Castle, and see the El Salvador Hermitage.

What is the terrain like on this hike?

The terrain is generally easygoing, typical of an 'easy' rated hike. While the final steps to viewpoints can sometimes be steeper, the overall path is manageable. Expect a mix of natural paths and possibly sections of the nearby greenways.

Is the Ascent to Peña El Salvador and the castle of Hence trail dog-friendly?

While specific regulations for this exact trail are not provided, many easy hiking routes in natural areas are dog-friendly. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always check for local signage regarding pet policies.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The best time to hike this trail would typically be during spring or autumn when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but always check the weather forecast before you go.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this hike?

There is no information indicating that permits or entrance fees are required for hiking this specific route. Access to natural viewpoints and historical sites like castles or hermitages often varies, but for the trail itself, it's generally open to the public.

Does this trail connect with or intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, sections of this route overlap with parts of the Camino Natural Via Verde del rio Cidacos and the Vía Verde del Cidacos, which are popular greenways. This means you might encounter other walkers or cyclists on those shared segments.

What should I bring for this hike?

For an easy hike of this duration, comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) are recommended. A camera would be great for capturing the views from Peña El Salvador and the historic Herce Castle.

Are there good viewpoints along the Ascent to Peña El Salvador and the castle of Hence?

Absolutely! The Peña El Salvador highlight is specifically noted as a viewpoint, offering scenic vistas. Additionally, trails leading to castles often provide elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

Nearby routes

Moderate

4.1

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The Island in Soto de Cameros, Fountain of the 3 spouts, Vulture Viewpoint – circular route

02:46h

8.59km

360m

Trail Reviews

oscargynko
March 16, 2023, LaRioja-Herce: Castillo+PeñaElSalvador

- Garmin data: 1:20h total time, 220m total unevenness. Video: https://www.relive.cc/view/vRO7J1erVKv - NOTE: worth it. I tried to go up a path that appears in Komoot and goes up the ledge, but I couldn't find it, so I went up the track I was going to go down, which is very easy, just like the small peak nearby. Good views.

Translated by Google
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