September 20 – 21
Our visit to Arcos de las Salinas will combine a journey to the cosmos at the Galáctica astronomy center with a variety of hikes – from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
Saturday, September 20:
Sunday, September 21:
↓ Sign up for reduced price until September 1 ↓
Galáctica is an astronomy center and outreach facility located in Arcos de las Salinas, Teruel. The area is known for its exceptional atmospheric quality and lack of light pollution. Sponsored by the Centro de Estudios de Física del Cosmos de Aragón (CEFCA), Galáctica is a unique center in Europe that combines a large, interactive museum with semi-professional observation facilities, including nine domes with telescopes for both day and night use. The center aims to make astronomy accessible to all audiences, offering a variety of activities from guided tours and workshops to night observations with powerful telescopes. It caters to a wide range of visitors, including school groups, amateur astronomers, and the general public, providing an immersive experience for learning about the universe and modern astrophysics.
Arcos de las Salinas is a prime destination for hikers, offering a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. The town is situated in the heart of the Sierra de Javalambre, a mountain range known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Hikers can explore a network of paths, from leisurely strolls along the river to challenging ascents into the mountains. A popular, family-friendly option is the “Senda fluvial Desiderio,” a short, out-and-back trail that follows the Arcos River, leading to a beautiful waterfall. For those seeking more demanding routes, the area is connected to longer-distance trails, like the GR 10, which traverses the region and offers multi-day trekking opportunities. More serious trekkers can tackle the ascent to Pico del Buitre, a significant peak in the region that also houses an astronomical observatory. This route provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area and a chance to experience the high-altitude landscapes of the Sierra de Javalambre.
The history of Arcos de las Salinas is intimately connected to the salt mines that give the town its name. Located just a short distance from the main village, the historic salt mines have been in operation since at least the Middle Ages and are a significant part of Aragon’s industrial heritage. They are now considered a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest) and are a fascinating place to visit. Visitors can follow a trail that leads to the saltworks, offering a glimpse into the traditional methods of salt extraction and the unique geological features of the area, including the remains of the old buildings, pools, and a small hermitage.
Hotel El Cierzo de Javalambre is a modern and charming hotel located in the town of Arcos de las Salinas in the Gúdar-Javalambre region. The hotel is designed to provide a comfortable and memorable stay with a variety of amenities, including a restaurant serving creative Aragonese cuisine, a cozy reading room with a fireplace, and free Wi-Fi. The spacious and elegantly decorated rooms feature a blend of modern style and original elements like stonework and wooden beams, and are equipped with amenities such as a flat-screen TV and heating. As its location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the hotel is just over an hour’s drive from the Javalambre and Valdelinares ski resorts, making it a perfect base for exploring the area.
The price of the trip is €210 per person (€185 signing up before September 1). €50 paid in advance to reserve the spot, balance due by September 14. The price is for a person sharing a twin room. You can reserve a single room for additional 50 euros.
Members get a €10 discount.
Free cancellation until September 14.
The price includes transportation, accommodation with breakfast, ticket to the astronomical center Galáctica, insurance and a professional guide.
You get more info about the trip by sending us an e-mail to info@valenciamountainenthusiasts.com
