Berganzo among waterfalls, river and history

Water and paths

The Inglares River divides Berganzo into two areas and runs through the entire village. On its descent from Peñacerrada to Berganzo, it overcomes an elevation difference of 200 m in less than 5 km. This creates small rapids and waterfalls, giving the river course its distinctive terrain gradient and changing water formations.

A path leads from the village centre to the Cascada de las Herrerías waterfall. Another option is the Ruta del Agua de Berganzo, a family-friendly circular route. It begins at the visitor car park in Berganzo and follows the Inglares through wooded areas with waterfalls and various river formations. The return route runs alongside the old water channel built to supply the Berganzo hydroelectric power station. When hiking along a watercourse, checking current information about trail conditions is one of the practical steps that can be taken before setting out.

History by the water

The Berganzo hydroelectric power station was built in 1897 by Sociedad Electro Hidráulica Alavesa and is still in operation. The old water channel was built to supply the Berganzo hydroelectric power station; its function links the route with the history of energy generation.

Church and washhouse

The Iglesia de San Miguel was built in the 16th century using the remains of a building erected by the Sarmiento family. A pointed arch, three windows and a loophole have survived from it. The church was restored in 2022 with support from the Departamento de Equilibrio Territorial and the Servicio de Patrimonio Histórico-Arquitectónico of the Diputación Foral de Álava.

The washhouse is located behind the town hall. Its wooden roof has been lost, but the rectangular basin made of ashlar stones remains. It includes polished stone slabs that slope inward along the entire edge. The church and the washhouse reveal two different historical traces within the village: sacred architecture and a facility from everyday life in the past.

Places of interest in the surrounding area

The Castillo De Bilibio castle is located in the vicinity of Berganzo. The historic site of Murallas de Salinillas de Buradon is nearby. Also in the surrounding area are the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Haro El Torreón and the Balcon De La Rioja viewpoint.

The Pico de Toloño peak is also near Berganzo. The Museo Vivanco de la Cultura del Vino museum and the Kristaran spring are also located in the surrounding area. Mount Larrasa lies farther away in the wider region. Thus, the places mentioned range from a castle and historic walls to museums and a viewpoint, as well as a peak and a spring.

Getting there

Berganzo can be reached via the N-124 and then the A-3126 towards Zambrana and Santa Cruz del Fierro.

To the main travel overview: Zambrana.