Peraleda del Zaucejo: Trails, Culture and Festivals

Trails and Landscape

The RUTA DE LOS PILONES is a 4-kilometre linear route of low difficulty; the walk to the water pools takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The RUTA LA BARROSA is a 9-kilometre linear route of low difficulty, suitable for walking and cycling; autumn and spring are recommended. The different route lengths and modes of transport provide you with a clear basis for comparing options when planning your day.

The RUTA DE LOS PILONES starts at the Oficina de Turismo on the Paseo de La Serena and initially follows the BA-107 towards Córdoba. It then continues along an easily walkable country track and subsequently along a path. By extending the RUTA LA BARROSA, you can visit the old Molino de Melchor grain mill, reached via a path along the Zújar River.

Nature

Umbría de la Traviesa is located in the western part of the municipality of Peraleda del Zaucejo; spring and autumn are recommended as the best times to visit. It is home to characteristic cork oak stands (Quercus suber), which form evergreen sclerophyllous forests on acidic soil.

Culture and History

The Puente de los Enamorados is a historic structure beneath which a stream from the Sierra once flowed. The bridge was dedicated to the schoolchildren and couples who spent their free time there at weekends.

The Pozo de la Comercianta was used because of the lack of drinking water to provide animals with water and to wash clothes. At the same time, it was a place for neighbours to meet.

The parish church of Peraleda del Zaucejo has a severely designed façade with a bell gable topped by a broken pediment; different building volumes and numerous pinnacles define the ensemble. Its interior has a Greek-cross floor plan, a central ribbed dome vault and a similarly vaulted chancel. The original parish church was a 16th-century building and was replaced by a new one after its destruction during the Civil War of 1936.

San Benito Abad is the town's patron saint; the associated feast day is 11 July.

Other Places

La Garrovilla, Montemolín, Montijo, Quintana De La Serena, Villar Del Rey, Villafranca De Los Barros, Entrerríos, La Zarza

Festivals and Local Cuisine

At the beginning of May, during the flowering of the rockroses, a festival takes place consisting of hikes through the mountains near Peraleda del Zaucejo. Afterwards, a communal feast with live music is held in the “El Estanque” recreation area.

A three-day event takes place in the “El Parquecillo” recreation area and the municipal sports pavilion. On the third day, Migas extremeñas with torreznos, pork ribs, garlic and paprika are tasted first; afterwards, the attendees are served meat from the grills set up in the recreation area.

For the broader travel overview: Badajoz.