Alquézar, the Spanish town that is among the best in the world for tourism

For a few weeks now, the small

on top of the pre-Pyrenean mountains, in the Somontano of Huesca, has added to its well-deserved title of

another more international one: the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has designated it as one of the best towns for tourism in 2022. Alquézar shares this privilege with two other towns, Rupit (Barcelona) and Guadalupe (Cáceres), the only Spanish destinations that have received this distinction, from a list of 32 out of 18 countries, which recognizes those rural populations that make tourism an engine for development and new employment and income opportunities, while preserving and promoting the values ​​and products of the community, have a commitment to

and tourism development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

The beauty of this quiet medieval town, with about 300 inhabitants, whose origins seem to date back to the 9th century with the construction of an Arab fortification (now the Collegiate Church) that dominates the landscape, is indisputable and a claim to all who come near it. area.

From the road that leads to the town, its perfect integration into the limestone environment can be seen, and the canyons, cliffs and caves modeled by the River Vero that surround it are a statement of intent for hikers and lovers of active tourism.

Plaza Mayor (or Rafael Ayerbe) of Alquézar.

The best thing to do is leave your car in the car park at the entrance to the town and then get lost in the charming, cobbled streets with a medieval layout.

At the top of the town is the majestic

, built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style on top of the old Arab fortress under the auspices of the kings of León.

From it comes a double wall with battlements, a watchtower and other towers that protect the historic center of the town, recognized as a Historic-Artistic Site.

The cloister (16th-18th centuries), which houses the

, with pieces ranging from the 12th to the 15th century, and the main altarpiece and a magnificent Romanesque Christ from the 13th century inside the temple are worth a stop.

The porticoed

(today called Rafael Ayerbe),

which leads to the walled enclosure of the castle-collegiate church, through an emblazoned door built between the 15th and 16th centuries, and the

, with incredible panoramic views of the town and the deep canyon of the Vero River, are other places of interest in Alquézar.

Routes and walkways

Surrounded by nature, forests, canyons and the river, Alquézar is a paradise for lovers of active tourism.

Canyoning, caving, hiking... are some of the most frequent activities.

Some of the routes that leave the town are:

(circular, of medium difficulty and about four hours long),

, which runs between ravines and thickets with incomparable views of the mountains and the Vero canyon (some five hours), or that of

(easy about two hours), which reaches the rafts of Arab origin of Basacol.

Another of Alquézar's great attractions is its famous

one of the most popular excursions in the area that can be done as a family.

It is a circular route of 3 km from which you can enjoy unique landscapes through walkways and wooden and iron bridges hanging from a canyon with spectacular views, turquoise waters and bathing areas.

The route begins in the town's main square, passes by the Collegiate Church and also visits caves (Picamartillo's), dams and waterfalls (admission: 4 euros; more information here).

Where to sleep

Casa Alodia Alquézar

(Bo. Arrabal, Alquézar; tel.: 626 351 816).

Rural house in the center of town with incredible views and free breakfast.

From 103 euros.

Reservations here.

Where to eat

Casa Pardina (Medio, 13. Tel.: 974 31 84 25) is a rustic restaurant with stone walls in the heart of Alquézar specializing in grilled meats and game.

It has beautiful views and its olive oil tasting stands out.

According to the criteria of The Trust Project

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