GETTING AWAY 09 · 1 DAY – BECAUSE OF THE NIGHT

Because the night

GETTING AWAY 09 · 1 DAY

Home > Getaway 09 · 1 day > Because the night

1 day
81 km.
By car / motorbike

Because the night belongs to us, let’s go on a night-time getaway – what do you reckon? Many places in UNESCO Territories are ideal for stargazing due to their low light pollution; in fact, both the Monfragüe Biosphere Reserve and the Villuercas Ibores Jara Geopark have been awarded the Starlight Destination quality label. But we’re suggesting something different: a journey into the depths of the night on the border with Portugal – stargazing, wild nature and some of the region’s most iconic landmarks. Let’s go.

➸ GETAWAY 09 (81 km) · See map

🚩 Km 0 · Night-time Brozas

Las Aguas

That’s the name of this astronomical observatory at what’s known as the Patos pond, in the village of Brozas – a small, easily accessible facility in the perfect spot to start our walk at sunset and enjoy the sight of the numerous waterbirds in this wetland as we go; You’ll need to bring your own binoculars, mind you, and if you fancy dinner, bring some with you or pop into Brozas, which has plenty of good places to eat.

🔭 Km 17 · Mata de Alcántara

More water

The next stop (17 km) is another reservoir, Mata de Alcántara, a charming wetland, equally accessible and situated in the heart of the dehesa, which features a spacious picnic area and a birdwatching hut. A peaceful spot where the night-time sounds of the pond’s inhabitants lull you to sleep whilst you gaze at the stars.

😎 Km 28 · Alcántara TOP

The Roman bridge

A must-see stop at one of the greatest surviving examples of Roman engineering: the Roman bridge at Alcántara (11 km). With its brand-new lighting, installed following the construction of the new bridge which means it is no longer used by vehicles, it puts on a spectacular display every night until 2.00 am.

👀 Km 39 · A magical spot

The eyes

The Ojos scree slope, or Peña Buraca (16 km), is one of those places that stays with you – and even more so if you visit it at night. This ancient rock sanctuary is a magical place and perfect for stargazing. A fully accessible path leads there (2 km) from Peñas Blancas.

🌅 Km 81 · The long-awaited finish

Ramiro’s Canchos

And to round off this truly spectacular experience, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise as the large colony of birds that inhabit the area – particularly the griffon vultures – begin to stir. It’s about 40 km from Piedras Albas, but it’s well worth the trip. And if you go in late summer, you’ll be amazed by the sounds of the stag’s bellow.