La Rinconada de la Sierra lies on the northern foothills of the Sierra de Quilamas. The municipality is part of both the LIC Quilamas (ES4150108) and the ZEPA Quilamas (ES4150039). Its location on the edge of the mountains and the two designated protected areas provide a landscape setting for finding your way around. At the same time, the lime kilns, archaeological remains and local festivals offer different themes for a stay.
Landscape, Stone and Lime Kilns
The limestone-rich northern area of the Sierra de Quilamas is known as the comarca of La CalerĂa. The villages in the region traditionally had lime kilns, and the limestone found there was used for construction. This regional name brings landscape and craft together: stone is not only a feature of the area, but is also linked to its former use by the villages.
A geological point of interest lies nearby at Cerro de la Corona. The good state of preservation and favorable viewing conditions there allow the Calizas de Tamames to be examined in detail. This adds a specific geological feature to the view of the Sierra, while the lime kilns tell of the traditional use of the stone.
Trails and Archaeological Traces
The Sierra de la CalerĂa route is a 32.8-kilometer circular trail connecting Escurial, Linares, Navarredonda and La Rinconada. Its length and circular layout are clear details to consider when planning your route; the named villages show which places it links. An opened route also makes it possible to visit traditional lime kilns and connects Linares de RiofrĂo, Escurial de la Sierra, Navarredonda de la Rinconada and La Rinconada de la Sierra. Check local conditions and trail markings before hiking.
A 2017 report described comprehensive signage along the Sierra de la CalerĂa route, as well as information boards in every village and at every point of interest. Since this information dates from 2017, check the current signage on site. This will help you plan your route based on present-day wayfinding rather than relying solely on an older description.
Archaeological traces add further points of interest. La Corona is the site of a former fortification at an elevation of 1,278 meters; its remains are still visible. At Castro de los Ganchos, the remains of a large circular building have been preserved. The two sites draw attention to different architectural remains: the former fortification at its elevated location, and the preserved form of a large circular building.
Another historical detail concerns the municipality itself: La Rinconada de la Sierra is considered to have been founded during the repopulation carried out by the Leonese kings in the 12th century. This account of its founding adds historical context about the origins of the town to the specific archaeological sites.
Festivals Throughout the Year
Las Candelas is celebrated on February 2. This long-standing local festival honors the Virgin Mary, with young people playing a leading role. The main event is the presentation of the ramo in the church. If you would like to plan a trip around this festival, check the latest program details in advance, as details may change.
Another annual date is Santiago ApĂłstol on July 25. The celebration includes a shared meal for all residents. Together, the two dates offer cultural reference points at different times of the year: Las Candelas in early February and Santiago ApĂłstol in late July. The trails, lime kilns and archaeological sites offer their own points of interest, so you can choose the reason for your trip according to the topics that interest you most.
Discover more destinations: Topas, Endrinal, El Cabaco, Valdelamatanza, Pereña De La Ribera, Calzada De Valdunciel, Bermellar, Cabrerizos.
For the main travel overview: Salamanca.
