Top 20 Natural Monuments around Cretas
Natural monuments around Cretas are found in the Matarraña region of Teruel, Spain, characterized by its rugged mountain ranges, limestone formations, and the Matarraña River. This area offers a diverse natural landscape with deep gorges, clear rivers, and prominent peaks. The region is known for its opportunities to explore unique geological features and rich ecosystems.
Best natural monuments around Cretas
- The most popular natural monuments is Els Estrets Gorge, a gorge where the Riu dels Estrets flows between vertical walls. This boxed section is known for its scenic beauty and attracts hikers and climbers.
- Another must-see spot is Toll Blau, a natural pool with clear and fresh water. It is the only designated swimming spot within the Els Estrets area.
- Visitors also love Penyagalera Summit (1,035 m), a solitary massif with rocks and vertical escarpments. From its top, visitors can experience panoramic views of the Matarraña River valley and the northern part of Les Ports.
- Cretas is known for its gorges, summits, and natural pools. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including river trails and viewpoints.
- The natural monuments around Cretas are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 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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Penyagalera Summit (1,035 m)
Highlight • Summit
The ascent that we could consider normal is the one that goes up from La Pesquera and is signposted as PR-TE 151, we did it downhill. Coming from Arnes, in our case, you have to go up following the Barranc de la Cova, a natural separation between the Penyagalera and the Serrall de les Clapisses, to the Coll de Pelele, from where we will go up a fairly straight path to the ridge where, we will reach the top more gently.
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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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Toll Blau
Highlight • River
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful and not demanding route, perhaps too crowded.
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Another essential route in the Matarraña region
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Penyagalera (1,036 m) is one of the most iconic mountains in the Puertos de Beceite mountain range, in the Matarraña region (Teruel). Its sharp silhouette and solitary position make it a spectacular natural viewpoint overlooking the Els Ports massif and the Ulldemó River valley.
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Great 360º viewpoint, I bivouacked there and everything
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Today we hiked the Penyagalera trail, which was fantastic. We started at P4, just as we were about to descend to the river and begin our ascent. Tip: wear gaiters because you have to put your feet in the river to cross, both on the way there and back on the other side (you exit at P8). Good endurance because it's all uphill until you reach the peak. It's cold at the top, so at least wear gloves. And enjoy the scenery.
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El Toll Blau is the only pool in which bathing is allowed on the entire Camino de les Estrets.
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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 most popular natural monuments around Cretas?
Visitors frequently enjoy Els Estrets Gorge, a stunning boxed section where the Matarraña River flows between vertical walls, popular for hiking and climbing. Another favorite is Toll Blau, the only designated natural pool for swimming within the Els Estrets area. For panoramic views, Penyagalera Summit (1,035 m) offers an extraordinary perspective of the Matarraña River valley and the northern part of Les Ports.
Are there any natural pools or swimming spots in the natural monuments around Cretas?
Yes, Toll Blau is a beautiful natural pool with clear, fresh water and small waterfalls, and it is the only designated spot where swimming is allowed within the Els Estrets d'Arnes section. However, swimming is prohibited in other areas like 'El Parrizal'.
What kind of hiking experiences can I find near Cretas' natural monuments?
The region offers diverse hiking experiences. You can explore the scenic Els Estrets Gorge, known for its vertical walls and river trails. The Parrissal Walkways provide a unique route along the Matarraña River with wooden walkways. For challenging climbs and rewarding views, consider ascending Penyagalera Summit. Many trails, like those in the Puertos de Beceite Mountain Range, offer opportunities to explore varied landscapes.
Do I need a permit or ticket to visit any natural monuments in the Cretas area?
Yes, for the Parrissal Walkways, a municipal ordinance requires a ticket for transit. This applies to all visitors, including those participating in the Estels del Sud crossing. It's advisable to check the Beceite City Council's website for current information and to purchase tickets in advance.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Cretas?
The warmer months are generally popular. For activities like hiking and cooling off in natural pools, summer can be ideal, though it's recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the heat. The Matarraña River's clear waters invite cooling off, and the landscape is vibrant. However, be aware that water levels can affect accessibility in some areas, such as 'El Parrizal', where high water might prevent passage.
Are there any long-distance hiking routes that pass through these natural monuments?
Yes, the Estels del Sud route passes through the area. Specifically, the stage between Arnes and Paüls goes through Els Estrets Gorge and the Parrissal Walkways. If you are undertaking this crossing, remember that a ticket is required for the Parrissal Walkways.
What kind of wildlife or natural features can I expect to see?
The Matarraña region, including the Puertos de Beceite Natural Park, is known for its rich flora and fauna. You'll encounter stunning limestone formations, crystal-clear river waters, and diverse ecosystems. The area is part of a Natural Hunting Reserve, indicating a healthy wildlife population, though specific sightings are not guaranteed.
What are the typical difficulties and durations for trails in Cretas' natural monuments?
Trail difficulties range from intermediate to challenging. For example, the main section of El Parrizal is generally considered low to medium difficulty, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours round trip. The ascent to Penyagalera Summit is described as not technically very demanding but requires a steady pace. Always check specific route details for accurate difficulty and duration.
What outdoor activities are available near the natural monuments around Cretas?
Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the region offers excellent opportunities for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous hiking trails around Cretas, including loops like 'Els Estrets d'Arnes – Toll Blau'. For cyclists, there are cycling routes such as the Via Verde Val de Zafán, and MTB trails that explore the diverse landscapes.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic scenery?
Absolutely. Penyagalera Summit (1,035 m) is a prime location, offering extraordinary panoramic views of the Matarraña River valley and the northern sector of Les Ports. Many trails through gorges and along rivers also provide stunning scenic outlooks.
What should I pack for a visit to the natural monuments in summer?
Given the potential for warm weather and river crossings, it's advisable to pack light, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes (some sections might involve getting your feet wet), and plenty of water. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also recommended. If you plan to visit Toll Blau, bring swimwear.
What makes the 'El Parrizal' area special?
'El Parrizal' (also referred to as a 'Beautiful spot' in some descriptions) follows the Matarraña River through a gorge, featuring stunning limestone formations, crystal-clear waters, and natural pools. It's known for its suspended wooden walkways and tunnels, offering a dramatic route through the landscape. Ancient cave paintings can also be seen in the area.
Most popular attractions around Cretas
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