VP10 - Alcuéscar - Valdesalor - 25,7 km

Stage of the Camino de Santiago: Alcuéscar to Valdesalor

In this stage of the Camino de Santiago, pilgrims will depart from Alcuéscar and move through rural landscapes, oak forests, and meadows, following a route that is peaceful yet filled with history. This stage connects to emblematic points of the Via de la Plata, bringing pilgrims ever closer to Compostela.

Departure from Alcuéscar: Towards the Sports Complex

Our walk begins in Alcuéscar, heading towards the Sports Complex, located about 800 meters from the hostel. From there, we take a track to the left, situated between the N-630 and the Ayuela Reservoir. As we proceed, we are surrounded by meadows and oaks, which will accompany us throughout much of the journey.

Crossing the Roman Bridge and Casas de Don Antonio

On our path, we cross a Roman bridge that leads us towards Casas de Don Antonio. If we decide to venture into the village, we descend along a path that connects us to Aldea del Cano. In this section, we follow the old path parallel to the N-630, an ancient road of the Via de la Plata, and encounter a milestone, a historical symbol of the Roman route.

Direction to Aldea del Cano

We continue our route towards Aldea del Cano, a picturesque village that can either be visited or simply passed through. From there, we cross the road to the station and pass beneath a highway. We then enter once again into a landscape of oaks and meadows.

Towards Valdesalor: The Aerodrome and the Salor River

Following the path, we reach a take-off strip at the Cáceres Aerodrome, which we cross before continuing for another kilometer to a junction. From there, we head straight ahead and descend to find a Roman bridge over the Salor River, which finally leads us to Valdesalor.

History of Valdesalor: A Young Village with Historical Roots

Although Valdesalor is a young village, founded in 1963 by the Colonization Institute to take advantage of the irrigation area near the Salor Reservoir, it is situated in an environment rich in history. This village is located on the ancient Via de la Plata, one of the most emblematic routes of the Camino de Santiago.

Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered remains of the Roman road, as well as over 150 denarii, coins issued during the Sertorian Wars, a historical conflict between Sertorius and Quintus Caecilius Metellus.

End of the Stage: Valdesalor

Upon reaching Valdesalor, pilgrims will have completed a stage full of history and natural beauty. From here, they can continue their journey towards Compostela, following the Via de la Plata route.