Top 12 Gorges around Cretas
Canyons around Cretas are a prominent feature of the Matarraña region in Teruel, Spain, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area is characterized by rivers carving through rock formations, creating gorges with vertical walls and unique geological features. This region provides opportunities for hiking and exploring natural monuments. Its rugged terrain and river systems contribute to a distinct natural environment.
Best canyons around Cretas
- The most popular canyons is Els Estrets Gorge, a gorge where the Riu dels Estrets flows between the Lliberós car park and the Pontet de Cantavella. It attracts hikers and climbers due to its scenic beauty and vertical walls.
- Another must-see spot is Parrissal Walkways, a gorge with a route of about 2.3 kilometers along the Matarranya River. It features sections with wooden walkways and river crossings, offering a unique river hike experience.
- Visitors also love Beautiful spot, a gorge following the Matarraña river through a scenic gorge. This area offers a walk of approximately 10 kilometers, featuring bridges and wooden walkways.
- Cretas is known for river gorges, natural monuments, and trails. The region offers a variety of canyons to see and explore, from challenging river walks to scenic viewpoints.
- The canyons around Cretas are appreciated by the komoot community, with 29 photos and 23 upvotes across the highlights.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
El Parrizal Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
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Parrissal Walkways
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
It has a route of about 2.3 km and an approximate difference in level of 110 m, and runs along the riverbed of the Matarranya River between the water catchment station and the Gúbies del Parrissal. We will find sections with wooden walkways to save gorges where there is no other alternative, others depending on the flood of the ravine will inevitably get your feet wet.
In the last ten years, new walkways have been created and existing ones repaired, leaving little room for adventure and discovery.
As if that wasn't enough and for the information of people who wish to sign up for the Estels del Sud crossing. Beseit City Council notifies that from March 2022 it has approved a Municipal Ordinance that regulates the public price for transit along the Parrissal Footbridges Route with personal insurance. For more information and to purchase a ticket, visit the City Council's website.
Due to the Passarelles del Parrissal being one of the crossing points of the Estels del Sud crossing in the stage between Beseit and the Refugi de la Font Ferrera, all participants in the crossing who wish to cross the footbridges must 'obtain said ticket beforehand. The price of the toll is 5 euros, but for those officially registered with Estels del Sud the price will be 4 euros, since you are either Federated, or you have the Insurance provided by Estels del Sud.
Although the passage through the footbridges and the Parrissal is only one of the possible itineraries between Beseit and Font Ferrera, if you want to save the amount of the Toll, you have the option of passing through the Moletes d'Arany. Itinerary of great scenic beauty and which leaves just before reaching the footbridges.
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Els Estrets Gorge
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Due to its scenic beauty, it attracts a large number of hikers, due to its vertical walls to many climbers and because we find the only place where bathing (Toll Blau) is allowed to large numbers of bathers in the summer.
The PR-C 185 goes through this place as well as the Estels del Sud route in its stage between Arnes and Paüls.
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Beautiful spot
Highlight • Gorge
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Els Estrets d'Arnes
Highlight • Gorge
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful and not demanding route, perhaps too crowded.
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Impressive landscapes in this area of the Port, with its rocky masses, its fauna and spectacular views of the Terra Alta region.
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Another essential route in the Matarraña region
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A stretch that is even more beautiful if there is water
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The Estrets d'Arnes path is a true natural wonder surrounded by imposing rock walls. Without a doubt, it is one of the most spectacular mountain sites in all of Catalonia.
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'El Parrizal' follows the (super clear) Matarraña river through a gorge. It is a walk of approximately 10 kilometers, depending on where you start and how far you can go. We chose the parking lot closest to the gorge and simply could not continue walking after a certain point due to the high water. There are bridges, wooden walkways and sometimes you have to cross the river balancing on small stones. We got our feet wet a few times, but that's okay when it's almost 40 degrees! If it had been allowed, I would have immediately jumped into the water for a refreshing dip, but swimming is prohibited here. Below are the photos. Already convinced how incredibly beautiful it is here?!
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'El Parrizal' follows the (super clear) Matarraña river through a gorge. It is a walk of approximately 10 kilometers, depending on where you start and how far you can go. We chose the parking lot closest to the gorge and simply could not continue walking after a certain point due to the high water. There are bridges, wooden walkways and sometimes you have to cross the river balancing on small stones. We got our feet wet a few times, but that's okay when it's almost 40 degrees! If it had been allowed, I would have immediately jumped into the water for a refreshing dip, but swimming is prohibited here. Below are the photos. Already convinced how incredibly beautiful it is here?!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the unique natural features of the canyons around Cretas?
The canyons around Cretas are characterized by rivers carving through rock formations, creating gorges with vertical walls and unique geological features. For instance, Els Estrets Gorge features impressive boxed sections and vertical walls. The Parrissal Walkways follow the Matarranya River, showcasing its course through a gorge with wooden walkways and river crossings. You can also find curious rock formations created by erosion at viewpoints like Racó de Sant Antoni.
Are there any family-friendly canyon experiences near Cretas?
While many canyon routes involve river crossings and can be challenging, the Parrissal Walkways offer a unique river hike experience with sections of wooden walkways, making it accessible for families. However, be aware that some parts may involve getting your feet wet, and swimming in the Matarranya River is prohibited as it's a source of drinking water. It's advisable to check current conditions and regulations before visiting, especially regarding the required ticket for transit.
What is the difficulty level of canyoning trails near Cretas?
The canyons around Cretas offer a range of experiences. Highlights like Parrissal Walkways and Els Estrets Gorge are generally rated as intermediate. The Parrissal Walkways involve wooden walkways and river crossings, requiring surefootedness. Els Estrets Gorge is known for its vertical walls, attracting climbers, and involves navigating a boxed section of the river.
What outdoor activities can I do near the canyons around Cretas?
Beyond exploring the canyons themselves, the region around Cretas offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the "Riverside of Valderrobres" loop, and gravel biking options like the "Via Verde Zafan Torre de Comte" loop. For runners, there are trails like the "Toll Blau – Els Estrets d'Arnes" loop. You can explore more routes in the dedicated guides for Road Cycling, Gravel Biking, and Running Trails around Cretas.
Is swimming allowed in the rivers within the canyons?
Swimming regulations vary by location within the canyons. For example, in Els Estrets Gorge, bathing is permitted at Toll Blau. However, in the Parrissal Walkways section of the Matarranya River, swimming is generally prohibited because the water is used as drinking water for Beceite. Always look for local signage and adhere to regulations to protect the natural environment and ensure safety.
What should I pack for a visit to the canyons around Cretas?
Given the nature of the canyon trails, it's advisable to pack appropriate footwear that can handle uneven terrain and potential wet conditions, as some routes involve river crossings. For the Parrissal Walkways, you might get your feet wet. Sun protection, sufficient water, and snacks are also recommended. If you plan to visit the Parrissal Walkways, remember that a ticket is required for transit, so check the Beceite City Council's website for information and to purchase it in advance.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of the canyons?
Yes, there are several viewpoints that offer stunning perspectives of the canyons and surrounding landscapes. Racó de Sant Antoni, located on the Pesquera path, provides spectacular panoramic views of the curious rock formations of the Penyagalera massif and the Roca de Migdia, shaped by the Ulldemó river's erosion.
What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons around Cretas?
Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and unique geological formations. The Parrissal Walkways are particularly appreciated for their wooden bridges and river crossings, offering a wonderful canyon walk along the Matarranya River. The vertical walls of Els Estrets Gorge attract both hikers and climbers, highlighting the diverse appeal of the region's natural monuments.
Are there any less crowded canyon options near Cretas?
While the main highlights like Parrissal Walkways and Els Estrets Gorge are popular, the broader Matarraña region offers many trails and natural monuments. Exploring less-trafficked paths or visiting during off-peak seasons (outside of summer weekends) can provide a more serene experience. Always consult local guides or information centers for current conditions and recommendations on quieter routes.
What is the best time to visit the canyons around Cretas?
The best time to visit depends on your planned activities. During the dry season, river levels are lower, making river walks like the Parrissal Walkways more accessible, as some sections can only be walked on foot when the water disappears completely. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures reaching almost 40 degrees Celsius, making water activities or early morning/late afternoon visits preferable. Spring and autumn generally offer milder temperatures, ideal for hiking and exploring.
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