Top 4 Lakes around Plasencia

While Plasencia isn't directly on large natural lakes, the region features significant reservoirs and natural river pools. The most prominent are the Embalse de Gabriel y Galán, the natural pools within the Garganta de los Infiernos Nature Reserve in the Jerte Valley, and the local Plasencia Reservoir.

The Embalse de Gabriel y Galán is excellent for active water sports like paddle surfing, kayaking, and catamaran rides. Fishing is also popular, with species such as royal carp and pike. You can also enjoy unique experiences like night paddle surfing with stargazing, and guided buggy and boat tours. The surrounding slopes are suitable for hiking and mountaineering.

Yes, the Garganta de los Infiernos Nature Reserve in the Jerte Valley is famous for its natural pools, often called 'marmitas de gigante' or giant's kettles. The area known as Los Pilones is particularly popular for swimming during summer months.

Around the Embalse de Gabriel y Galán, you might spot wildlife such as wild boar, fox, deer, ibex, and various vultures. The Garganta de los Infiernos Nature Reserve also boasts diverse flora and fauna within its deciduous forests and riverbank vegetation.

Many areas are family-friendly. The Plasencia Reservoir and Arroyo Boquerón Reservoir are both categorized as family-friendly highlights. The natural pools in the Garganta de los Infiernos are also a great option for families, especially for swimming.

There are numerous hiking opportunities. The slopes around the Embalse de Gabriel y Galán are suitable for hikers. In the Garganta de los Infiernos Nature Reserve, you'll find several signposted routes, including those of La Umbría, Los Pilones, or the Garganta de los Infiernos itself. For more specific routes, you can explore the hiking guide around Plasencia, which includes trails like the 'Walk of the Jerte-Plasencia Swamp' and 'Plasencia Reservoir loop'.

Absolutely. The area offers great cycling routes. For example, the cycling guide around Plasencia features routes like 'Embalse del Jerte and Vía Verde from Plasencia' and 'Jerte Reservoir – New Cathedral of Plasencia loop'.

The best time depends on your activity. For swimming in the natural pools of Garganta de los Infiernos, summer is ideal. If you're interested in the famous cherry blossoms in the Jerte Valley (where Garganta de los Infiernos is located), spring transforms the landscape into a sea of white. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities.

Yes, there are several. The Plasencia Reservoir offers immense views of the Jerte reservoir. Another popular spot is the View of Embalse de Plasencia, which provides panoramic sights of the reservoir as the road descends through the Valle del Jerte.

The Arroyo Boquerón Reservoir is a man-made monument known for the striking contrast of its bluish water against the green of the surrounding pasture, creating a very memorable image.

Yes, there are several running trails. The running guide around Plasencia includes routes such as 'Paseo Fluvial de Plasencia – circular by the Jerte river' and 'Paseo del Pantano — circular by the Pantano de Plasencia', offering scenic runs near the water.

Next to the dam of the Embalse de Gabriel y Galán, there is a village built with granite. It was originally constructed for the workers involved in building the dam and is interesting to visit for its unique architecture and historical context.