The best walks and hikes around Santa Marta
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32
hikers
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Hiking around Santa Marta, Extremadura, is characterized by its varied terrain, including limestone mountain ranges, rolling hills, and historical sites. The region features a network of trails that traverse agricultural landscapes, woodlands, and areas around reservoirs. Hikers can expect routes with moderate elevation changes, offering views of the Spanish countryside and local architecture.
Best hiking trails around Santa Marta
- The most popular hiking route is Limestone Mountain Range – circular from La Parra (SL-BA 194), a 5.1 miles (8.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 24 minutes to complete. This route explores the local limestone formations and surrounding rural areas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ride to Trasierra - circular from La Parra, a moderate 4.5 miles (7.2 km) path. This trail offers views of the countryside around La Parra and Trasierra.
- Local hikers also love the Castillo de Nogales — circular by Los Ejidos, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through historical areas, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Santa Marta is defined by limestone mountain ranges, historical castles, and rural landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Santa Marta are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 20 hikers have used komoot to explore Santa Marta's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4
hikers
8.17km
02:24
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.23km
02:10
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.69km
01:20
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
14.8km
04:00
210m
210m
Hike the moderate 9.2-mile circular route around Nogales, exploring the historic Castillo de Nogales and scenic Embalse de Nogales.
20.2km
05:35
350m
350m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The fortress has a 35-metre-high keep and a perimeter wall with cylindrical towers at the corners. Originally, the castle had a drawbridge that allowed access through a moat, although this no longer exists. The castle was restored by the Junta de Extremadura at the end of the 20th century, preserving its structure and historical elements.
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Picturesque path next to the Nogales reservoir, which also passes through the dam, built in 1991.
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Located in the Badajoz town of Nogales, this medieval fortress built in the 15th century sits on a small hill and its character is purely defensive. For this reason, its most outstanding element is the keep surrounded by a wall, since it was of great importance during the clashes with the French and the Portuguese.
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The castle and the church that are at the top of the town offer views of the plain called Tierra de Barros.
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Built in the 15th century on a strategic site, the castle of Nogales dominates the region, being able to see land even several kilometers away. It is a site that can be visited, the medieval fortress is one of the best preserved. Very close to here is the Church of San Cristóbal, another site of interest to visit.
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A beautiful place with wonderful panoramic views of the interior landscape of Badajoz. A detour to the mountains from La Parra will allow you to appreciate this beautiful landscape, highly recommended to do it when the sun goes down.
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Nice and quiet itinerary through the protected area of the Sierra Caliza through a typical landscape of the interior of Extremadura. Starting from the town of La Parra, you can follow the SL-BA 194 circular marked path, an ideal walk for the whole family.
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Route the 12 Apostles. This route originates as an activity of the Nature Classroom of the Popular University of Salvaleón. It is a circular route of 16.5km, of moderate difficulty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Santa Marta, Extremadura?
There are over 10 hiking routes recorded on komoot around Santa Marta, Extremadura. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from moderate walks through rural landscapes to more challenging routes in the limestone mountain ranges.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families in Santa Marta?
Yes, there are a couple of easy routes available. For example, the Castillo de Nogales — circular by Los Ejidos is a moderate 2.9-mile (4.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, offering a pleasant walk through historical areas. While classified as moderate, its shorter distance and lower elevation gain make it more accessible.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Santa Marta?
Hiking around Santa Marta, Extremadura, is characterized by varied terrain, including limestone mountain ranges, rolling hills, and agricultural landscapes. You'll find trails traversing woodlands and areas around reservoirs, offering views of the Spanish countryside and local architecture.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers in the Santa Marta area?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Route of the XII Apostles — circular from Nogales is a difficult 12.5-mile (20.2 km) trail with over 1,100 feet (350 m) of elevation gain, typically taking over 5 hours to complete.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while hiking near Santa Marta?
Many trails in the area pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the Nogales Castle, which is featured on routes like the Castillo de Nogales — circular by Los Ejidos. Other nearby attractions include the San Juan Hermitage of La Parra and the ancient Olive Tree of La Tapada.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Santa Marta?
Yes, many of the trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Limestone Mountain Range – circular from La Parra (SL-BA 194) and the Ride to Trasierra - circular from La Parra.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Santa Marta, Extremadura?
The routes in Santa Marta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Hikers often appreciate the varied terrain, including limestone formations and rural landscapes, and the opportunities to explore historical areas.
Can I find trails that offer views of reservoirs or natural monuments?
Yes, some routes, such as the Castillo y Embalse de Nogales — circular desde Nogales, will take you past the Nogales reservoir. Additionally, you can find natural monuments like the Twelve Apostles Cork Oaks in the vicinity.
What is the typical duration for a moderate hike in this region?
Moderate hikes in Santa Marta, Extremadura, vary in duration. For instance, the Limestone Mountain Range – circular from La Parra (SL-BA 194) is about 5.1 miles (8.2 km) and typically takes around 2 hours 24 minutes, while the Ride to Trasierra - circular from La Parra, at 4.5 miles (7.2 km), takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes.
Are there any trails that pass through traditional Spanish settlements or villages?
Many routes in the area offer glimpses of local life and pass near or through traditional settlements. The Ride to Trasierra - circular from La Parra, for example, offers views of the countryside around La Parra and Trasierra, providing a sense of the local rural architecture and environment.
What is the highest elevation gain I might encounter on a hike here?
The most significant elevation gain on a single route in this guide is found on the Route of the XII Apostles — circular from Nogales, which features an ascent of over 1,100 feet (350 m).
Most popular attractions around Santa Marta
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