Las Médulas is something that I was waiting to know because it’s the largest gold mine open pit of the Roman Empire and World Heritage Site. It’s a very cool tour to make a stop on the way to Galicia because it’s relatively close to the A-6 road at Ponferrada, and if you want to know El Bierzo, it’s an essential stop. For those who do not know Médulas is an old gold mining made by the Romans in an area of El Bierzo , near Galicia. With stunning views and great setting, it’s ideal for bike routes, hiking or just take a walk.
I tell you my experience. The first thing is parking. Reaching the village there’s a car park in which you have to pay “what you want”, but it’s a lie, the fee is 3€. We left the car there and then later saw there were some small areas to park, but I guess it will be for very early birds or those who know the trick. A two minute walk you reach the Archaeological Hall of Las Médulas, besides being very didactic room they give you a map with the routes that you can do and guidance on what best suits you. And if you want, you also can download it here.
Senda Perimetral. Foto de www.madridcoolblog.com
My recommendation: from the small village there’re two paths, one is short and very crowed and the other is a little bit longer but nicer and quiet. The road we took us is the last one, the “Senda Perimetral”. Leaving behind the Archaeological Hall and walked down the main street of the village until the church and the path begins in front of it. We walked towards Yeres and turned to the left towards the Mirador de las Perdices. From there you can enjoy the panoramic virtually alone. The road continues and reaches the Mirador de Orellán, with great views and then you have to backtrack a little way to catch the Camino del Mirador falling in zig-zag and through which we arrived again to the people through the Source of Aunt Viviana. Be careful here because the shortest way is also the busiest and the floor can be quite slippery because of the humidity.
There’s another option to get good views without having to walk: from the Mirador de Orellán, but by another way. Just before reaching the village of Las Médulas there’s a turnoff to the left that leads directly there. It doesn’t have the same charm for people with mobility problems or prams is the best choice.For those who don’t like to walk too much or more adventurous,you can also make the journey on horseback. We met a tour of eight people and it seemed a great idea. The horses were super quiet, in fact there were several children in the group, and the guide was explaining the area.
The area is seen relatively quickly depending on the route you chose, from half an hour if you go directly to the Mirador de Orellán until a couple of hours if you like walking. At the village there’re several restaurants to complete the experience eating some typical food like Botillo or Roasted Peppers that require a good nap. The area is always a good plna if you go as a group of friends or a couple with children. And if you want to continue planning things to do in summer, see my Getaways from Madrid, sure there’s some that fits you!
Visitors reception center at Las Médulas
Phone: +34 987.42.07.08
Address: Las Médulas, El Bierzo (León).
