The Ribera de los Molinos Hiking Trail and the Las Barrancas Viewpoint
Discover everything about the Ribera de los Molinos hiking trail and Las Barrancas viewpoint.
If you love hiking and rural tourism, the Ribera de los Molinos Trail and Las Barrancas Viewpoint in Fariza, Zamora, offer an unforgettable experience. Located in the heart of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, this trail combines history, nature and breathtaking panoramic views.
History and context of the trail
The banks of the Pisón stream in Fariza were once an important centre of milling activity. There were up to 18 mills along its course, harnessing the power of water to grind grain and sustain the local population. These mills, now disused, are silent witnesses to a time when milling was essential to the region's economy. To follow this route is to delve into history and understand the importance of these mills in everyday life in the past.
Location and how to get to Fariza
Fariza is a small but charming village in the province of Zamora, located within the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, in the Sayago region. It is about 51 kilometres from the city of Zamora, making it an accessible destination for a hiking or rural tourism getaway.
The most convenient and quickest way to get to Fariza is by car, as the roads in the area provide easy access to the village and the main points of interest. Below, we explain how to get there from different nearby towns.
From Zamora
If you are leaving from Zamora, take the ZA-321 road towards Bermillo de Sayago. The journey is approximately 51 kilometres and takes about 50 minutes. As you approach Fariza, the landscape becomes increasingly spectacular, with extensive pastures of holm oaks and cork oaks, and finally the impressive cliffs of the Arribes del Duero.
From Salamanca
From Salamanca, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. First, follow the CL-517 towards Vitigudino and then continue to Trabanca. From there, take local roads that will take you to Bermillo de Sayago and then to Fariza.
From Fermoselle
If you are staying in Fermoselle, another of the most emblematic villages in the Arribes del Duero, getting to Fariza is very quick and easy:
1.Take the ZA-316 towards Bermillo de Sayago.
2. Before reaching Bermillo, turn right at the junction with the ZA-324, which will take you towards Pinilla de Fermoselle and Villadepera.
3. Continue on the ZA-321 towards Fariza.
4. In total, the journey is about 27 kilometres, which is approximately 30 minutes by car.
This route will allow you to enjoy the impressive views of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, with its large canyons and rock formations bordering the River Duero.
Arrival in Fariza
When you arrive in Fariza, you will find several areas where you can park your vehicle. If you are going to do the Ribera de los Molinos Route, it is best to leave your car in the centre of the village and start the walk from there.
If, on the other hand, you only want to visit the Las Barrancas Viewpoint, you can continue by car to the Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Castillo chapel, where there is a small car park. From the chapel, you only have to walk about 500 metres to the viewpoint to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the River Duero and its tributaries.
This option is ideal for those who prefer quicker access to one of the best views of the River Duero without having to walk the entire route.
Detailed description of the Ribera de los Molinos Route
The Ribera de los Molinos Route is a circular route of approximately 7 kilometres that begins and ends in the picturesque village of Fariza. With a difficulty rating of easy, it is suitable for walkers of all levels and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and any stops you make.
Start in Fariza
The starting point is the centre of Fariza, a charming village in Zamora that forms part of the Sayago region. To get there, take the ZA-321 road from Zamora, travelling about 51 kilometres. When you arrive, you will find parking areas where you can leave your vehicle before beginning the adventure.
Tour of the Ribera de los Molinos
From Fariza, the trail descends gently towards the banks of the Pisón stream. Along the way, you can see the remains of old mills, some better preserved than others, but all evoking times gone by. The sound of the water and the lush riverside vegetation create an atmosphere of peace and serenity, ideal for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Source: Linda Trastolilla via Google Maps
Ascent to the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Castillo
After following the riverbank, the trail begins to ascend towards the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Castillo. Although the climb is moderate, the effort is well rewarded. The hermitage, located on a promontory, offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is a perfect place to take a break, rehydrate and enjoy the views.
Source: José Manuel Mateos Fernández via Google Maps
Visit to Las Barrancas Viewpoint
Source: Javi Torrijos via Google Maps
Just 500 metres from the chapel is the Las Barrancas viewpoint. From here, the views of the River Duero and its tributaries are simply breathtaking. The deep canyon carved out by the river and the majesty of the landscape make this viewpoint a must-see. Don't forget your camera; you'll want to capture the beauty of this place.
Source: Pepi Concejero via Google Maps
Flora and fauna in the area
The route's surroundings are rich in biodiversity. The flora includes holm oaks, cork oaks and various species of Mediterranean scrub.
As for fauna, it is one of the best viewpoints in the Arribes del Duero for spotting birds of prey such as golden eagles, griffon vultures, kites and Egyptian vultures. The Mirador de las Barrancas viewpoint is an excellent observatory, and if you are lucky... you might see them flying very close by!
The banks of the stream are also home to numerous species of amphibians and reptiles.
Practical tips for hikers
- Equipment: We recommend wearing comfortable footwear suitable for hiking, clothing appropriate for the time of year, and bringing sufficient water and some food for the journey.
- Ideal season: This route can be done all year round. Spring and autumn are the most recommended seasons for this route, as temperatures are milder and the landscape is at its most beautiful.
- Precautions: Although the route is not difficult, it is important to pay attention to the signs and respect the natural environment.
What else is there to see in Fariza? Cultural and natural heritage in the surrounding area
In addition to the route, Fariza and its surroundings offer other points of interest. The village of Fariza itself has charming traditional architecture and is a good place to learn about the local culture.
Likewise, the Arribes del Duero Natural Park offers numerous additional routes and viewpoints for nature lovers. We recommend the Abelón waterfall, the Mirador del Meandro del Río Duero viewpoint or a boat trip through the Arribes del Duero.
Conclusion
The Ribera de los Molinos Route and Las Barrancas Viewpoint is a perfect choice for lovers of hiking, birds of prey and rural tourism.
Located in the heart of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, it combines history, nature and breathtaking panoramic views. What's more, its accessibility makes it an ideal route for all types of hikers, from beginners to experts.
If you're looking for a getaway to a unique natural environment, Fariza awaits you with this hiking gem.
And after a day of adventure, there's nothing better than resting and enjoying the local cuisine at Posada Doña Urraca, accommodation in Fermoselle where you can recharge your batteries and continue exploring the treasures of Zamora.
Are you ready to discover this incredible route? Pack your rucksack and enjoy the experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to complete the Ribera de los Molinos and Las Barrancas Viewpoint Route?
The estimated time to complete the route is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on your pace and any stops you make.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is easy, making it suitable for walkers of all levels, including beginners and families with children.
Can dogs be taken on the route?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the route, provided they are kept under control and supervised.
When is the best time of year to do the route?
It can be done all year round, although the best seasons for this route are spring and autumn, when the weather is milder and the landscape is at its most beautiful. In summer it can be very hot, so it is recommended to set off early in the morning.
Are there any refreshment points along the way?
There are no drinking fountains or establishments along the route, so it is recommended that you bring enough water and some food.
Where can I park to start the route?
You can park in the village of Fariza, where there are several areas where you can leave your car without any problems. There is also a parking area next to the chapel if you do not want to start the route from the village.
