Audio Guide of Hell's Gorge Nature Reserve

Hell's Gorge Nature Reserve is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, as it is a natural area. The best way to get there is by car to the parking areas near the Interpretation Centre (Las Vueltas) or to the start of routes such as the Los Pilones trail, for example, in the town of Jerte. From there, you can access the marked hiking trails. You can find more details about access and routes on the official Hell's Gorge website.

Access to Hell's Gorge Nature Reserve is completely free. There is no entrance fee to enjoy its trails or natural pools. The only costs you might have are for parking if you choose to use the designated paid car parks during high season, or simply your travel and food expenses.

It depends on the route you choose, but to fully enjoy the famous Los Pilones trail and a good swim, it is recommended to allow between 3 and 4 hours. If you choose longer trails or want to explore other areas of the reserve, you could easily spend a whole day there. We recommend planning your visit by checking the different routes on the available routes website.

The name 'Hell's Gorge' is very evocative and comes from the dramatic nature of its landscape. Over thousands of years, the action of the water has eroded the rock, creating whimsical geological formations such as giant's kettles or 'pilones,' which evoke a deep and vertiginous gorge. It has no specific historical meaning beyond the force of nature.

The best time to visit is in spring, when the cherry trees of the Jerte Valley are in bloom (late March to early April), although it can be busier then. Summer is ideal for swimming in its natural pools. To avoid crowds, the best option is to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially outside weekends and public holidays in high season. If you want to enjoy the blossom, remember to book your accommodation in advance.

Unfortunately, most of the hiking trails within Hell's Gorge Nature Reserve are not accessible for people with reduced mobility or pushchairs, due to uneven paths, steps, and steep slopes. However, the Interpretation Centre is wheelchair accessible, although reaching Los Pilones requires walking over natural terrain.

The Jerte Valley is a natural paradise. In addition to Hell's Gorge, we recommend visiting picturesque villages such as Jerte, Cabezuela del Valle, or Navaconcejo, and the rest of the Jerte district. Do not miss the Las Nogaledas Waterfalls trail in Navaconcejo, and if you visit in spring, the spectacular cherry blossom is a unique event. There is also a Salmonid Breeding Centre in Jerte.

Of course! Bring comfortable footwear suitable for hiking, enough water, and sun protection. If you are going in summer, do not forget your swimsuit and a towel for a dip in the natural pools. Respect the natural environment, do not leave rubbish, and always follow the marked trails. We encourage you to check the Interpretation Centre for maps and updated advice. You can find additional tips in this essential guide.