Lagunilla del Jubera: Dolines, Churches and Trails

Lagunilla del Jubera lies between the mountains and the valley. The municipality is home to the protected Dolines of Zenzano, covering 22.70 hectares; the karst formations are located near Zenzano, a hamlet of Lagunilla del Jubera.

Nature and Routes

The Hoyas de Zenzano comprise La Covaza, La Redondilla and La Cueva, three large depressions formed by water erosion in the limestone. La Covaza is the largest and most easily accessible doline; it is approximately 100 metres wide and around 60 metres deep.

Zenzano itself is an abandoned and derelict village that is suitable for mountain excursions with impressive views. The route to the Hoyas de Zenzano can vary in length and difficulty depending on the route chosen.

The Ruta de las Ermitas, associated with Lagunilla del Jubera, connects the village with Ventas Blancas. Along the Ruta de las Ermitas y de los Frailes, interactive information panels provide information about the history of the places along the route. The route passes through an environment characterised by pine trees, oaks and abundant wildlife.

Trails and Getting There

Lagunilla del Jubera can be reached via the local LR-261 road, which joins the N-232 at Agoncillo and from there provides access to the AP-68 and the A-12.

Churches and History

The parish church of San Andrés was built in the 16th century from ashlar stone and masonry and was declared a National Historic Monument. It has a single-nave layout, a choir with choir stalls, an organ and a main altarpiece.

The Ermita de Villavieja is a Baroque building from the 17th century with elements dating from the 16th century. At the entrance to Ventas Blancas are the ruins of Santa María de Rute, which belong to a small Visigothic basilica from the 6th century.

Only ruins of Santa María de Rute remain today; archaeological excavations in the 1970s uncovered the structure and several adjoining rooms. In the 11th-century Fuero de Nájera, Lagunilla del Jubera is mentioned under the name Lacu-nela.

Other Places

Other places include Zarratón, Castroviejo, El Horcajo, Nájera, Ollauri, Valgañón, Galilea and Cirueña.

Agriculture and Festivals

Lagunilla del Jubera has historically been characterised by agriculture; crops include cereals and vines, among others.

The festival in honour of the Virgen de Villavieja is celebrated on 8 September; the procession takes place on the first Saturday in September and includes music and food. The Fiesta de la Santa Cruz is celebrated in Ventas Blancas on 14 September. The Fiestas of the Virgen del Rosario are celebrated in Lagunilla on the first Sunday in October.

For the higher-level travel overview: La Rioja.