Waterways
Valle del Jerte is the valley of water. The union between valley and river is such that they even came to share the same name. The river was born at the top of the valley next to Tornavacas Port; humble origins for a true force of nature that sustains the life of this district. The valley and river cannot be understood without the network of creeks and ravines that feed them, forming a water system of transparent blood that circulates the valley below looking for a path between imposing rock walls. This millennia old struggle has formed a network of intricate labyrinths that hide a handful of unique geographic spaces: the ravines of Valle del Jerte, true geological and environmental treasures. To approach this path of water and rock is to approach the very heart and history of this valley at the foot of the Gredos sierra; a journey that leads us to corners where natural beauty is shown in all its splendour.
Monte de la cruz
TORNAVACAS
The old capital of the dominion of the Álvarez Family of Toledo, which is marked by its border location. It was the first town the flocks from the plateau reached on their way from Castilla. Important local festivals are celebrated in early May, such as firework night, the representation of a local legend Ya Tornan las Vacas (The Cows are Going Back) and the Pilgrimage of the Cross. At this last one, the inhabitants ascend Monte de la Cruz where a popular mass is held and then there is a communal outdoor meal with traditional games and charanga music. This mountain has a natural viewpoint, from which you can see the entire valley from Tornavacas Port to the Torreón Massif (7,874 ft), as far as Plasencia, and also the summit of Castilfrío (7,654 ft) and San Martín ravine to the east.
